The Farmers Mart Apr-May 2020 - Issue 68 | Page 56

56 GLEDHILL FARM
APR/MAY 2020 • farmers-mart.co.uk
They had both looked at various farms
that had diversified into all sorts of areas.
With the growing popularity of open
farm days, farm experience ventures and
llama and alpaca trekking, the nub of an
idea and future business plan came to
mind. They did a lot of research before-
hand into alpacas, all about the breed,
temperament, feed, care etc, checked
the costs, logistics and how a transition
could be made to work.
So, in 2018, the big step was made.
They changed some of the stables to
accommodate the alpacas, reducing
the number of horses they could take
for livery down to 14. All the perimeter
fencing had to be changed and erected
in places. There could be no barbed wire
anywhere. This was a costly exercise
that needed to be done. The whole farm
now has a much bigger and upgraded
CCTV system in place, both for protection
of the animals but also for the public’s
safety. The beef herd was kept going
to give them income whilst they got
used to and trained the alpacas and get
them ready for the public. Now the new
venture could begin.
All the planning and hard work paid
off. By the back end of 2019, before it was
time to bring the cattle in, the rest of the
herd were sold. The remaining land not
used for the treks and animals grazing etc
is now just used to grow their own hay
and haylage.
The plan all along was to create an
engaging experience for the public
to enjoy, both children and adults.
The alpacas were the centre piece,
so to speak, however, to enhance the
experience and give both variety and
extra interest, two donkeys were bought.
These were ex seaside donkeys that
hadn’t had such a great time. At Gledhill
they are well cared for, fussed over and
NEVER ridden - and now there are three.
It doesn’t stop there, there are also two
micro pigs, two emus (Bruce and Sheila!),
three sheep, two goats and, to complete
the experience line-up, three Shetland
ponies and a miniature horse, Elsa! Ooh,
I nearly forgot, there is a rabbit and also
numerous cats as well!
You really are in for a treat when you
visit Gledhill. As we know all too well,
particularly recently, the weather can be
horrendous. Another set of stables have
been converted into a comfy, functional