The Prince of Wales visited Jimmy’s Farm in Ipswich last week to hear more about the farm’s rare breeds programme and meet school children taking part in educational activities.
The Prince, who is Patron of The Rare Breeds Survival Trust, was shown around by the Trust’s new President, farm owner Jimmy Doherty. The Rare Breeds Survival Trust aims to maintain sustainable populations of the UK’s rare native breeds of farm livestock and to promote the benefits of these breeds in environmentally-friendly farming systems.
His Royal Highness saw a host of birds and animals during the Royal visit, including peacocks, llamas, and rabbits. The Prince also visited the farm’s Butterfly House and met some Saddleback piglets, which are a recognised rare breed.
Jimmy Doherty and his wife Michaela took on the farm in 2002 as part of their passion for rare breed pigs including the Essex Pig, Berkshire, Gloucester Old Spot, Large and Middle Whites. The early days of the farm formed part of a BBC documentary series called Jimmy’s Farm.
The farm has grown to include an on-site butchery and farm shop, restaurant and Wildlife and Farm Park. Jimmy’s Farm now employs nearly 40 staff and also has a vibrant education programme enabling local schools and community groups to learn about traditional farming methods as well as a host of other countryside and food related subjects.
