Our President, Lynda, welcomed 56 members and six guests. Lynda reminded everyone that they should book lunch on-line or by card at Milner’s. This ensures that a lunch is booked, and dietary requirements shared with Tennant’s. Members were reminded paying for lunch on-line is now an option.
Lynda apologised that lunch registration cards were not available due to Secretary’s absence through illness; these will be available next month. If anyone wishes to book via Milner’s and does not have a card, please write your name, date of the lunch and any dietary requirements on a piece of paper and hand this in, thank you.
After lunch we had a presentation from Philip Metcalfe entitled ‘Four generations of Metcalfe Farms’.
Philip revealed that the family business, Metcalfe Farms, is currently run by the third and fourth generations. The original small dairy farm was begun 80 years ago by Philip’s Grandfather, Frank, at Washfold Farm. This has now expanded and diversified immensely over the years and includes several successful business areas with family members responsible for specific aspects.
Philip highlighted how environmental awareness is a priority for Metcalfe Farms. This is reflected, for example, in the anaerobic digester which processes slurry into methane to produce electricity for the farm and the grid, as well as producing Digestif, a fertiliser for the fields.
An on-site veterinary practice looks after the herd, as well as providing vet services to the wider community. An on-site training facility, providing health and safety training for the haulage and quarry staff, plus a commercial vehicle service centre, supports the haulage and quarrying aspects of the business. Although it seems that Frank discouraged the move into haulage, Philip is sure Frank would be proud of the achievements of his family today.
The farm continues to have a dairy element to the business; there are now 1,300 cows, of which 1,120 are in milk.
Members raised interesting questions at the end of the talk, including asking Philip ‘what do you think Frank would think of the business he founded?’
Next month we meet on Thursday 20th November when Pat Burgess will talk about ‘The Commonwealth War Graves Commission’. If you’re interested in joining us, please visit our website www.leyburnlunchclub.co.uk or contact the Secretary, Caroline Fisher, at ladies@leyburnlunchclub.co.uk
