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FULLY BOOKED: LEAF Open Farm Sunday 2023


FULLY BOOKED: LEAF Open Farm Sunday 2023

Open Farm Sunday 2023 at Dyson Farming is now fully booked. Please keep an eye on our social media channels for information about any last-minute availability.

We’re welcoming you to Nocton Farm for LEAF Open Farm Sunday 2023 for a family day of exploring, tours and relaxation.

This year, we’re inviting you to discover more about the environmental work we do across the farm. From the Dunston Beck restoration project to nesting bird boxes and wildflower margins, see how we work in harmony with the wildlife across the farm every day. Join Ian Willoughby, our Environmental Coordinator, on a tractor and trailer tour around the farm to discover what we do.

We’re also opening the gates of Nocton Wood, with two self-guided walks (3km and 5km) to enjoy through the protected woodland. Discover more about the species that grow there and the wildlife that calls the wood home. Pick up an activity pack from The Hive to keep your little ones engaged, from collecting flora to creating detailed tree rubbings.

Back at The Hive, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Whether you’re tasting the Dyson Farming strawberries which are grown at our glasshouse in Carrington, or relaxing to the music on, what we hope will be, a glorious summer’s day.

Food and drink will also be on offer, including gourmet toasted sandwiches from Dancing Dungarees and something to drink from Ferry Ales Brewery. Complimentary tea and coffee will also be available throughout the day.

Our recruitment team will also be on hand to talk to anyone interested in joining Dyson Farming.

Secure your spot by clicking below. Spaces are limited for the guided tours – booking is essential.

📆 11 June 2023
🕘 10 am – 4 pm
💷 Free

📍 The Hive, LN4 2AY

 
 
 

LEAF Open Farm Sunday is a free event.

You can book up to 5 tickets as part of the checkout process.

Each tour will last approximately 1 hour.

The self-guided walks follows farm tracks that are uneven in places. The route is suitable for off-road pushchairs and motorised mobility scooters.

Yes – we are providing complimentary strawberries, tea and coffee throughout the day. There will also be a bar and gourmet toasties on offer if you are looking for something more.

Yes – there will be toilets located at The Hive.

Please note: There are no toilets on the self-guided walk or along the route of the environmental tour.

Yes – there is ample parking close to The Hive. Our team will be on hand to direct you during the day.

Please come dressed appropriately for the weather on the day of the event. The self-guided walk follows farm tracks that may be muddy following wet weather. Sturdy footwear is essential.

The self-guided walks are ideal for bringing your dog along. Dogs must be kept on leads at all times during your visit.

The tours are very popular and are likely to be fully booked, so there may not be space for dogs on the trailer.

Please keep an eye on our social media channels where you will find any information about changes to the event and cancellations.

We only open the wood to visitors at times when we will cause minimal disturbance to wildlife and our ongoing woodland management schemes.

Follow our social media channels to hear about future opportunities to explore this special place.

We’ll be taking photos and video throughout the day to use across our social channels and in marketing materials.

If you do not wish to be included, please speak to a member of our team.

If you have any more questions, please get in touch by emailing enquiries@dysonfarming.com

Head Office

The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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EVENT: Maximising the benefits of cover crops


Maximising the benefits of cover crops event

Over the past winter, Dyson Farming have trialled a range of cover crop species together with Anglian Water and Boston Seeds.

We’re inviting all farmers, growers, agronomists, and industry representatives to join us on Tuesday 30th May 2023. Here you’ll learn from Dr Tom Storr (Dyson Farming) about the results of our cover crop trials which included large-scale plots covering tilled and no-till land. The plots included five cereals, four clovers, four vetches, four mixtures, three mustards and three radishes.

Kate Smith (ADAS) will also lead a practical session looking at the pros and cons of using companion crops in the rotation, balancing the management, costs, and wider environmental aspects to ensure success.

Date: Tuesday 30 May 2023

Timings: 10.00 am start with refreshments available from 9.30 am. The event will end at 12:30 pm.

Venue: The Hive, Wasp’s Nest, Nocton Fen Lane, Nocton, Lincolnshire, LN4 2AY

Registration: book here

Attending this event will assist with:

  • Choosing cover crop mixes for your specific soil crop, and rotational needs.
  • Understanding establishment, management, and end-of-life strategy for maximum benefits.
  • Maximising return on investment by using this evidence-based research and trial results.
  • Managing cover crops by over-winter sheep grazing.
  • Catch/companion crop management methods.

To book a space please follow this link

For more information about this event please contact Richard Meredith on: richard.meredith@dysonfarming.com or 07717 493015

Head Office

The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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Dyson Farming Leisure: Fishing at Stubton Farm

Dyson Farming Leisure: Fishing at Stubton Farm

Register for a Stubton Ponds membership by visiting https://stubtonfarm.clubmate.co.uk/register.

For more information about our ponds, email us at leisure@dysonfarming.com.

Our fishing ponds at Stubton Farm are opening on 1 May 2023, and memberships are on sale now.

With five ponds spread across the farm, Stubton Ponds are ideal for experienced anglers and those still new to the sport. Varying in size and location, our ponds each offer something different, from sheltered pegs to open, field-side spots.

Become a member

Memberships are on sale now with a special early bird discount for members who join before we launch.

Memberships include:

  • Exclusive, unlimited access, club members only (no day passes)
  • A dedicated booking app
  • Adjacent peg parking at some locations
  • A choice of five well-stocked ponds
  • Membership pack and baseball hat

Location

Postcode: NG23 5DA

Five ponds near the village of Stubton, a 15-minute drive from Newark-on-Trent.

For more information and to join, email leisure@dysonfarming.com.

FAQs

What are the ponds stocked with?

Our ponds are mixed fisheries, including carp, roach, rudd, bream, crucian carp, tench, gudgeon and perch. We have ponds that are predominantly carp and predominantly silver fish. On average, there are 1000lb+ of fish per acre.

How big are the ponds?

We have five ponds in total, including:

– 2 x 0.5-acre ponds, averaging 4-7’ in depth

– 1 x 1.2-acre pond, averaging 3-6’ in depth. This pond features an island

– 1 x 1.2-acre pond, averaging 3-7’ in depth

– 1 x 1-acre pond, averaging 3-6’ in depth

How many pegs are there?

There are 100 pegs across our five ponds.

Is there a limit on the number of rods per member?

Members must have their own rod licence and are allowed to fish with two rods at any one time.

How long will my membership last?

Memberships are annual, running from May – April each year.

Do the ponds close during fish spawning?

No, our ponds will remain open throughout times of spawning.

How do we care for the fish in our ponds?

We work closely with a fishery management consultancy.

All ponds feature a dipping station.

Can you retain the fish caught from our ponds?

No fish above 2lb to be kept in a keep net, up to a maximum of 50lb. Large carp can be kept in carp sacks for weighing and photograph purposes only. Unhooking mats must be used at all times.

No keepnets to be used in hot weather.

Are the ponds gated?

Our ponds can only be accessed with a unique code for each gate. Only members are allowed to fish with us.

Are day tickets available to fish our ponds?

No day tickets are available – only members are permitted to fish with us.

Is there a time limit per session?

Members are given unlimited access to the ponds between dawn and dusk all year round.

Will the ponds be open for night fishing?

No night fishing is permitted at Stubton Ponds.

Is parking available at each of the ponds?

Parking is available at all ponds. Peg-adjacent parking is only available in some locations at two of the ponds.

Are there any bait restrictions?

Anglers must use barbless hooks. The following baits cannot be used:

– Peanuts

– Cat food

Head Office

The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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Easter egg hunt 2023

Easter egg hunt 2023

The Easter Bunny has a hole in his bag. He’s dropped nine eggs across our Nocton Estate, and we need your help to find them.

Collect the clues to find out our bunny’s name and when you’ve cracked the answer, hand your sheet in at The Estate Office to receive an Easter surprise.

The perfect activity for your Easter break, the Easter egg hunt is open from Monday 3 to Thursday 6 April, 10 am – 4 pm. Parking is available free of charge at Nocton Cricket Club, The Bridleway, LN4 2FH.

You can download your activity sheet here.

Please note: This is a self-guided event, starting at Nocton Cricket Club and ending at The Estate Office.

Head Office

The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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Agroforestry at Little Steeping


Agroforestry at Little Steeping

The agroforestry scheme at Little Steeping continues to evolve and will benefit food crops, our soil and wildlife in the area.

This scheme forms part of our overall countryside stewardship initiative and sits alongside grass and wildflower margins, legume pollinator mixes, and wild bird covers.

The land at Little Steeping had not previously benefitted from stewardship, which has enabled us to identify a baseline on which future improvements can be measured. This baseline also allows an effective comparison to other areas of the farm, which have been under stewardship for many years.

As part of this agroforestry initiative, 622 apple trees have been planted within the conventionally cropped area. The apple trees include cider, eating and cooking varieties, giving us wider opportunities in the future. Around the outside, 300 elderflower trees have been planted to help protect the site while also providing a flower-rich nectar resource for insects. The flowers can also be harvested for cordial.

The site at Little Steeping is perfect for this scheme thanks to the north-south running square fields. This means that the cereal crops will not be subject to shade from the trees, therefore not inhibiting yields. The added benefits for invertebrates will, in turn, provide pollination and natural pest control services to the crop.

This 110-ha scheme is monitored for the presence and abundance of key species, giving us the ability to understand the value of environmental features and food production.

Head Office

The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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Cover crop open day


Cover crop open day

Dyson Farming are trialling a range of cover crop species together with Anglian Water and Boston Seeds. Cover crops benefit soils by protecting them from excess water, ice and wind and also maintain nitrogen levels and other nutrients to benefit the next crop.

We’re inviting farmers, growers, agronomists and industry representatives to join us for a cover crop open day on Tuesday 22 November. Here you’ll learn about our trials and how cover crops can benefit your land through interactive and practical plot tours. We are offering two tours throughout the morning, which you can book below.

Our large-scale plots cover tilled and no-till land and were all sown on 8 September. They include:

– Five different cereals

– Four clovers

– Four vetches

– Four mixtures

– Three mustards

– Three radishes

We’ll discuss the effect they have on soil structure, nutrient capture and release, water quality, and ease of establishment for the next crop.

 

Date: 22 November 2022

Venue: Dovecote Hall Farm, Westville, Boston, Lincolnshire, LN4 4YH 

What3words location: ///asked.somebody.delved

 

Booking and tour times: 

Tour 1 at 8:30 am follow this link to book a space

Tour 2 at 10:30 am follow this link to book a space

 

Please note that the trials field will be signposted from Dovecote Hall Farm. Appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear are advised.

Head Office

The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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Branston Junior Academy visit


Branston Junior Academy visit

As part of our commitment to the local community, we have formed a strong relationship with Branston Junior Academy.

Just five miles from our head office, we gave the children a chance to see behind the scenes of a farm they’ll pass regularly. On Friday, we welcomed the entire school to The Hive before splitting up and exploring different parts of the farm, and farming, throughout the day.

From the importance of British produce to the differences in soils, this was a brilliant opportunity for the next generation, and farmers of the future, to see what goes into 21st century farming and how we care for the environment and surrounding landscape.

During the day, the children met members from teams across the business including Agronomy, Farming and Environment.

Management project

Ian Willoughby gave each class their own plot of land. Each plot is abundant with wildlife and wildflowers. The children set out to explore their plot, recording the wildflowers they found and spotting animal poo and pellets, which gave them a clue to what animals visit or call the area home.

Their task is to create a management plan to encourage more, or different, flora and fauna to flourish within their plot. From creating areas of wetland or hedgerows to doing nothing at all, each plot will be managed by each class, with changes being made over time.

Ask a farmer

Farm Manager, Paul Carrott, and Livestock Manager, Tom Wilks, tested the children’s knowledge on crops and how they’re used, before the tables were turned for a Q&A session.

Farming equipment and soil health

Technical Agronomist, Ed Ford, introduced each group to a range of farming equipment including combines, foragers and tractors. He then explained how drones are used across our farmland to determine soil health, followed by an extremely popular flight demonstration.

Soils

Dr Tom Storr, Research Agronomist, got the children’s hands dirty, determining soil type by feeling different samples. After that, they were given a shovel to dig up roots of crops which they compared and learnt how they affect soil structure.

British produce

Estates and Environment Manager, Jo Knight, asked the children to think about where their food came from. From sugar to strawberries, they discovered the thousands of miles much of their food travels before landing on their plates and how British farms can buck the trend.

Nocton Wood

Some of the children were even treated to a walk around Nocton Wood, a private, protected woodland that sits on our estate. They spoke about the animals who live there and how our team maintain the area to provide the perfect habitat.

You can visit Nocton Wood, this Halloween – join us for ghost stories, spooky walks and creepy surprises. For more information, click here.

Head Office

The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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Fright night at the farm

Fright night at the farm

There’s something spooky down at Nocton Wood – join us this Halloween and discover the story of Victoria.

Follow the path of Victoria’s final journey and discover the gruesome tale of her untimely end in the ancient woodland where her ghost remains to this day.

A spooky wander for Halloween night, look out for the bats speeding through the trees and swooping overhead. 

Spot The Nine Brethren – an ancient oak that once marked the boundary of the Augustinian Priory that stood nearby.

Once a main road through the wood, you’ll walk in the footsteps of highwaymen and monks, and follow the trails of lords and ladies making their way through the once dangerous area.

What will happen?

Arrive at The Hive and climb aboard our tour trailer from 4 pm to enjoy a tractor ride down to Nocton Wood. Here, you’ll be greeted with tales of the wood and the terrifying story of Victoria.

You’ll be given a map to help you find your way through the wood – a 30-40 minute trail through the darkness. Look out for a host of resident wildlife, from deer to bats.

You’ll meet the highwayman and other creepy characters on your way, so keep your wits about you or be in for a fright.

Spot the letters hidden amongst the trees to crack the code and earn a treat at the end of the night.

Once your walk is over, you’ll jump aboard the trailer for a ride back to The Hive where you’ll be able to enjoy hot drinks, hot dogs, and jacket potatoes, included in your ticket price.

Tickets

50% of your ticket price will be donated to Lincs and Notts Air Ambulance.

Adults: £12

Children: £5

Email enquiries@dysonfarming.com to book your place.

What you’ll need

🧟‍♀️ | A creepy costume

☔ | Waterproofs and suitable warm clothing

🥾 | Suitable footwear – boots or wellies are ideal

🔦 | A torch – your phone is fine, but remember you might need this to document your day

Where to go

🗺 | The Hive, Wasps Nest, LN4 2GR

What3Words | blink.spearing.meaty

  • The paths through Nocton Wood are naturally uneven, making them unsuitable for wheelchair users as well as pushchairs. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.
  • Dogs are not permitted in the wood.
  • This is a family-friendly event, although due to the scary nature, it is important to take caution as you make your way around our path. Children must be supervised at all times.
  • As this event takes place after the clocks change, the sun is due to set at around 4.30 pm, which means visibility will be extremely poor in parts of the trail. Please bring a suitable torch with you to help you find your way.
  • Costumes are encouraged, although please be prepared for the seasonal weather conditions and please wear suitable footwear. The trail may be muddy in places.
  • This is a protected site so please be respectful of your surroundings and the wildlife in the area. Please take any rubbish out of the wood with you – bins are provided at The Hive.
  • Toilets are available at The Hive.
  • Photography is encouraged – share your photos with us on Instagram and Facebook @DysonFarming.
  • Please be mindful of the people around you.
  • Last entry is at 7 pm, with the final trailer returning from Nocton Wood at 7.45 pm.
  • The Hive remains open with food and refreshments available until 8 pm.
  • Parking is available at The Hive and is free of charge.
Head Office

The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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Strawberries in stock now

Dyson Farming strawberry sorbet

With temperatures never before seen in the UK forecast over the coming days, we wanted to help keep you cool with our easy strawberry sorbet recipe. There’s no need for an ice cream maker – simply follow our easy steps.

All you’ll need is a punnet of Dyson Farming strawberries, available from M&S stores and the local farm shops listed below. You may need some warm water, and you can also add raw honey for extra sweetness.

Method

  • Freeze fresh Dyson Farming strawberries for 2-3 hours or until solid
  • Place your frozen strawberries into a food processor or heavy-duty blender and blend until they’re smooth
  • If you find the consistency isn’t quite how you’d like, add a little warm water to help
  • Taste. If you’re looking for something sweeter, add small amounts of raw honey to suit your taste.

This method will give you a soft textured sorbet. For a firmer result, freeze for 2-3 hours before serving.

Local farm shops

NHP of Sibsey

Leagate Road Farm Shop 

The Willows Country Store 

Mountains Farm Shop 

Brandon’s Market Fresh 

The Country Victualler 

Four Seasons, Spilsby 

Becky’s fruit and veg van 

Grange Farm Produce

Tag @dysonfarming in your Instagram posts, and we’ll share your delicious results.

 

Head Office

The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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Dyson Farming in the community: The Lincolnshire Show


Lincolnshire Show 2022

Dyson Farming in the community: The Lincolnshire Show

Dyson Farming attended the 2022 Lincolnshire Show this week, the first since 2019. Sponsoring the Schools’ Challenge and educating visitors on the technologies used throughout our estates, the day was a roaring success.

The Schools’ Challenge took place across both days with school children of all ages taking part. We sponsored the ‘Food for Thought’ challenge, which encouraged primary children to develop healthy and nutritious snacks for throughout the school day.

They were also encouraged to use produce grown at school and to create an awareness campaign to promote the importance of healthy eating. From potato skins to beetroot brownies, there were some brilliant ideas on show, with one school even handing out sample honey from their school bees.

 

Dyson Farming Managing Director, Daniel Cross, was part of a team of judges who looked closely at each entry, listening to presentations from the children, whose enthusiasm and expertise were brilliant to see. Congratulations to all the schools involved for their hard work and impressive displays.

Our team of experts were on hand to chat to visitors, while displays helped explain how technologies such as anaerobic digestion contribute to our circular farming system. Other areas of the stand demonstrated how we invest in our soils and carefully manage our natural capital to support wildlife. Sample strawberries, grown in our 15-acre Carrington Glasshouse, were also on offer for visitors passing by which proved to be a real treat for all ages.

The show took on a purple theme to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee with plenty on offer for any age and interest. The traditional agricultural theme took precedence with 2500 animals and the latest farming tech and innovation on show, while classic cars, BMX shows, shopping stalls and plenty more offered variation throughout the day. A Spitfire flyby was one highlight and the RAF Falcons amazed crowds with their parachute displays above the main ring.

Head Office

The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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hear from you