Popular lambing weekend attracts record visitor numbers

Tuesday 28th of March 2023 03:19 PM

Sunshine and showers greeted the new born baby lambs and a record number of visitors as a popular event sold out at a renowned agricultural college.   

Moreton Morrell College welcomed more than 5,000 visitors for their popular annual Lambing and Animals Weekend held at Nethermorton Farm, with visitor numbers for this year breaking attendance records.

The two-day event was filled with farm-themed activities, from meeting the college’s herd of cattle, sitting on tractors and the highlight of getting the chance to hold baby lambs and see them being born.

Farm Manager Daniel Hale and agricultural students from the college were also on hand to answer questions about lambing and life working on the farm.

Visitors also got up close with exotic animals including lizards, reptiles, raccoon dogs and more at the Animal Centre, including the exciting new addition of Dug the black monitor lizard who was bought using funds raised at the previous year’s event.

More than 15 traders featured at the weekend’s farmers market, which gave visitors the chance to sample and purchase the best local food and craft products.

Carpentry students from Moreton Morrell College were also on hand to use their woodcarving skills to raise money for charity Molly Ollys Wishes – which supports children with life-threatening illnesses and their families with their emotional wellbeing.

Farm Manager Daniel Hale, who enjoyed his first Lambing & Animals Weekend since joining Moreton Morrell College in late 2022, said: “It was wonderful to welcome so many people in person to the farm for our annual Lambing and Animals Weekend.

“This is an event that enables visitors to experience a working farm, meet and hold our animals, whilst enjoying the spring sunshine with friends and families.

“We received great feedback with visitors enjoying meeting and holding the new born lambs, meeting our 500 ewes and exploring our beautiful 650-acre farm.

“I would like to thank the students who supported our team throughout the weekend, they were exemplary when interacting with both the animals and visitors, and demonstrated the breadth of their industry knowledge when answering visitors’ questions.

“We look forward to welcome visitors back again to the college for next year’s event.” 

Photo caption: Visitors enjoying the annual Lambing and Animals Weekend held at Moreton Morrell College.