Is there any better way to start the Christmas period than with a cup of mulled wine surrounded by the Wiltshire countryside and most of all, turkeys?
The 5th of November was host to an open day like no other at Lydiard Turkeys. Hundreds of people wrapped up warm and ventured out to the Rumming family farm to see just how their Christmas turkeys were doing and the process from farm to fork.
Graduate Gemma Harvey and Poultry Adviser Aimee Mahony, joined myself and the public for a tour of the Rumming farm as well as getting up close and personal with the turkeys.
Chris Rumming, the man behind Lydiard’s turkey empire, said: "It was bitterly cold and breezy last weekend but that didn’t stop over a hundred people coming to the farm for a tour.
"The focus was on the turkeys and we explained the benefits of our small-scale production. Visitors got to see the birds out and about pecking in the paddock and had a tour of our butchery, packing room and fridge.
"I was pleasantly surprised that so many people wanted to come and learn more about farming, but people should want to know about how their food is produced and it was a pleasure to give them the opportunity.
"It was a lot of preparation in the week before the event but well worth it for educational reasons but also for the growth of the business. I hope that those who attended will tell their friends and families where they’ve been and what they’ve seen.
"I don’t think we can afford not to have an open day every year. If you’re proud of what you do you must show people.
More for members:
Our turkey merchandise online shop is now open!
"Plenty of questions were asked on subjects ranging from the details of the on-site processing to the effects of Brexit on farming. Some of the questions turned into discussions as we had farmers from other sectors and several vets also attending. We also had several members of NFU staff on hand to help with any questions."
The day was a brilliant opportunity for children and people not from the farming industry to have an interactive insight into what makes their food and all the hard work put into ensuring these turkeys are ready and tasty for Christmas dinner.
FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN BACK BRITISH FARMING THIS CHRISTMAS HERE
See more pictures from the open day below:
