An exciting day was had by all at Louth Livestock Market thanks to Oliver Chapman and the Louth Young Farmers Club, who put together a packed day of events for some of our local primary schools. Whether learning about how to grow fruits and vegetables, how to raise livestock, or to name different crops and cuts of meat, the children had a brilliant crash course in what it means to be a modern farmer in Lincolnshire.
Oliver, the brainchild behind the workshops, got the idea to host the event when pondering the fate of Louth Livestock Market and the subject of his undergraduate research project - all it took was an inspiring video on social media and he was away!
“It got me thinking,” commented Oliver, “I stumbled across a video on social media shared by the Farmer’s Guardian of a similar event being held at an auction mart up north, and this was when my idea was born to set an event in Louth and to have local schools attend.”
With the help of Louth Young Farmers’ Club, Oliver set his idea in motion, approaching schools around the Louth area about the idea. In the end, more than 70 pupils from 3 rural schools attended for a unique day of hands-on agricultural learning outside the classroom. They all enjoyed it immensely!
From sitting in tractors to petting lambs, the day gave a comprehensive look at farming and even included a mock auction which gave pupils the chance to learn all there is to know about food production and what goes on at their local markets.
Reflecting on the importance of the workshops, local Member of Parliament Victoria Atkins said, ‘’Agriculture is the life blood of our local economy here in Lincolnshire, and it is so important that children in our part of the world are acquainted with it.’’
‘’I am delighted that our Young Farmers are reaching out to local children to teach them about food and farming. I hope that this encourages the next generation to engage with rural life, and maybe join Young Farmers groups themselves in the future!’’
‘’Thank you Oliver for taking the time to organise such a fantastic day, and all the volunteers who gave their time to make it a success.’’
If you are interested in joining a Young Farmers group in Louth and Horncastle, please contact Lincs YFC on 01522 568989, or get more information at www.lincsyfc.org.uk.