SHEEP - EVIES FLOCK

Cattle and sheep play an important role in maintaining the landscape of the Derbyshire Dales and the Peak District. At dove farm, our small herd and flock manages the grassland, and we produce premium, ethical meat , as well as selling pedigree stock to other breeders.

CowsBritish White and Murray Grey Cattle

We keep a mixed herd of cattle – with 2 favoured breeds: British Whites are linked to the ancient horned, White Park Cattle. They have always been exceptional beef animals, and used to be kept for their milk too. The naturally polled British Whites split from the Park cattle in 1946 and a separate breed society was formed. They are generally placid cows and good mothers. www.britishwhitecattle.co.uk

Murray Greys, by contrast are a relatively new breed – they originated in Australia, from a cross-breed Angus. They range in colour, from coffee to dark brown. They are easy calving, with a gentle temperament. Not too big , they mature relatively quickly, and are a good cross with traditional British breeds. Our current bull is a Murray Grey. www.murray-grey.co.uk

British White and Murray Grey CattleBritish White and Murray Grey CattleBritish White and Murray Grey Cattle

Ryeland Sheep

Ryeland sheep originate in Herefordshire – so they are well suited to the flat, fertile grassland of the Dove valley . They were highly prized for both wool and meat – but have since fallen out of favour, commercially. Like most of the older, traditional breeds, Ryeland sheep frequently produce single lambs, rather than twins or triplets, and wool no longer fetches decent prices. It also takes longer for traditional breeds to fatten and mature. www.ryelandfbs.com

Ryeland SheepRyeland SheepRyeland Sheep

We have turned some of this to our advantage at dove farm: we sell one-year matured lamb meat , direct from the farm gate, to order. Our customers comment on its texture and flavour. This is slow food at its best!

We also show our sheep on a small scale. It is hard work, very time-consuming , with much to learn. When you visit, why not help out with halter training, by walking a couple of sheep around on a lead?