The Davies family sells beef direct from Blackhurst Farm in the Shropshire Hills, where Highland cattle graze wildlife-supporting rough pasture. Government-backed funding helped pay for a sales building, a borehole for dry spells and pond work to slow flooding.
The Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme is government-backed and funds projects linked to nature recovery, climate resilience and public access in National Landscapes, National Parks and the Norfolk Broads. Shropshire Hills adviser Alison Jones said more than 250 projects had been under way since it began in 2021, and noted that farmers share advice on options such as boreholes and solar pumps.
Rob Davies said the family used to deal regularly with sheep being chased or attacked by dogs; he believes walkers have become more aware of keeping dogs on leads. The farm also hosts school groups to teach pupils about food production.
