From cuddling baby lambs to meeting Sam the calf - staff and customers of Surrey Choices immersed themselves in nature and learned about our vital conservation grazing work.
Bonhurst Farm is home to our cross-breed sheep and iconic Belted Galloway ('Belties’) cows, which are looked after by our dedicated Conservation Grazing Team. Spring is a busy (but exciting) time of year for the team as the newborns finally grace us with their presence, and it was only fitting that we invited Surrey Choices to share in this magical experience.
The day began at 10am and the first group from Surrey Choices were brimming with excitement! Half of the group ventured into one of the barns where they met Sam, the endearing baby calf. The other half eagerly visited our lambing barn, surrounded by the soft bleats of our baby lambs and their watchful mothers. Everyone had the chance to stroke the newborns, and some even snuck a cuddle!
Our expert Conservation Grazing Team discussed life on the farm and shared how the newborns will grow up to support conservation grazing efforts across Surrey. They described how they will help manage important habitats by trampling and chomping on vegetation, helping to create biodiverse terrain and attracting a range of wildlife.
The groups then rotated, ensuring that no one missed out on meeting the baby lambs or calves. After some refreshments, it was time for everyone to go home and for the newborns to settle down and to get some rest.
Surrey Choices Head of Innovation & Business Development Christina Earl said:
“It is a very important charity to me, and it is important we keep the Surrey countryside as it is and the wildlife too. We were in glorious sunshine with people we support seeing the newborn lambs and cows. The group learnt many things on the day”
Surrey Choices Customer Christopher said:
“I really enjoyed coming to Bonhurst farm. We have been stroking the lambs and holding them. I have loved seeing the animals”
