This summer’s annual farm walk was a great success, thanks to the generous hospitality of William van Cutsem and his family on the Hilborough Estate.

It offered a rare and unique opportunity to explore an estate that has significantly reshaped its priorities in recent years.

On a beautiful August evening, we were fortunate to hear from Emily Swan of Natural England and BFWN’s Lucy Hatcher, who guided us through the inspiring changes led by William and Nicholas van Cutsem, Dominic Green, and the wider farm team. The results of this shift in direction were evident all around us, with an abundance of thriving plant and animal biodiversity.

On returning to the yard, the farm team kindly made themselves available to discuss and answer questions on the machinery used to help establish and maintain these areas.

At the end of the evening those attending were able to enjoy a delicious buffet made possible by the funding we receive from the Esmeé Fairbairn Foundation. 

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make this evening both possible and memorable.