News From September 2015

Visit to North Wyke Rothamsted Research Centre

Posted in Events on Sunday 20th September 2015 at 10:33pm

The Dartmoor Society were given a real treat on the afternoon of Wednesday 16th September when 31 Members were given a first class guided tour of North Wyke Rothamsted Research Centre.

We were privileged to have a three for one experience where firstly Phil Murray commenced the tour by eloquently explaining to us about the North Wyke “Farm Platform” which through a number of regulatory processes they are ensuring global food security in the face of a changing climate.

Then Deborah Beaumont gave a comprehensive overview of the “Environmental Change Network” programme where by doing extensive research combined with an integrated environmental monitoring programme using the weather as well as moths, bats, beetles, etc, they can both detect and interpret environmental change.

Finally Carol Newman gave us an excellent insight on the 800 year history and a comprehensive external and internal tour of Wyke Manor itself and although it is now used as offices, its beautiful oak panelling and well preserved interior decoration still prevails.

During the afternoon we were also treated to coffee, tea and biscuits giving all our Members a  chance to socialise. A wonderful afternoon was enjoyed by all.

Visit to Moortown Farm

Posted in Events on Monday 7th September 2015 at 10:59pm

38 Dartmoor Society members were privileged to visit Moortown Farm on Wednesday 26th August. It has been farmed by the Jordan family for 100 years and we were all very warmly welcomed by John and Diane Jordan, their Son Robert and Grandchildren Charlotte and Jack.

It soon became clear that a high level of attention to detail in the feeding and rearing of the cattle, ponies and the sheep is required to produce the top quality pedigree stock achieved by this long standing Dartmoor family.

We were all delighted by the supreme condition of the Jordan’s pure breed Dartmoor ponies, Scottish Black Faced Ewes, North Country Cheviots, Grey Faced Sheep, Texel Sheep, South Devon Cattle and more.

This fabulous event was rounded off by an excellent tea jointly provided by John and Diane Jordan and the Dartmoor Society Executive Committee.