My first experience of dairy farming when I was 11 years old on a neighbours farm, which I continued through interest on a voluntary basis until the age of 16 (weekends, after school, summer holiday etc). The farmer was an and a big believer in learning by doing so lots of in house repairing, and cuts and bruises, he had a very calm temperament never shouted (unless at the dog), and had a good sense of farm humour.

Following this at 17, I worked in my family restaurant which had been operating for over 40 years in Cumbria, which had covers up to 120 people per night most nights, employed over 6 staff full time and and additional 10 part time. I did take charge of the business later on in my life for a number of years at which I managed proficiently liaison with other members of staff, particularly the kitchen in producing new dishes and special menus. Best drive for me is all getting stuck in together and using your roles/skills to solve a problem. (I.e, front of house see the customer eating the product and interact with them, where as the kitchen get little of this experience but must produce the dish and also the decor, collaboration is key when necessary to achieve and excellent product.

This applies to dairy farming as whom does husbandry (beds) is as important as the one who mixes the wagon, to the person who milks, usually Im

All roles but, unfortunately this is changing these days, but keeping an eye for different behaviours in the cows or illnesses though observation when working i.e. ears down, eyes, conditioning are some of the first signs, or seasonal changes, (sometimes you can still beat the collars the old fashioned way).

I worked in construction for 3 years in Europe, with family, stone masonry mainly but all aspects were undertaken as regulations rather different to uk, more relaxed. Traveled and worked mainly at nights hotels etc.

Then returned to farming following the closure of my family restaurant in 2017, did not want to cause any aggravation as I have siblings and take over. Also I much prefer the outdoor environment and I have children so hours in the evening can be unsuitable I believe, and I feel more content and satisfied after a day on the farm, especially with my kids,

My family come from a rural background parents have chickens, goats, sheep so the were very understanding.

This is my background and entrance to farming.