This week we hear about Mark's tractor driving antics!
I was delighted when Suzanne asked me if I would like to go on the tractor driving course in January. I felt thoroughly rewarded for all that hard work I had put in the previous two months out in all weathers repairing fencing and doing general maintenance around the reserve. I think the guys rather liked having me on board if only for my tea making skills or “power brews” as I like to call them. I also discovered that buying vast quantities of biscuits also works wonders in enhancing your conservation career.
A beautiful crisp January day at Old Hall was perfect weather to embark on a three day tractor driving course held at the reserve. I was really glad I packed my thermals! Despite the adverse weather conditions and the odd crash, we all made it through to the reserve and completed the course on time. The tractor is used daily on the reserve and is an essential tool. It also happens to be excellent fun to drive as well. The tractor seems to be a firm favourite with my friends the cows and also Jenson (the friendly bull). They like to use it as a mobile scratching post and seem to take great delight in throwing you around inside the cab. I can’t describe to you how many hours of fun I had attempting to move this enormous rusting hulk around the farmyard. After several failed attempts and lots of swearing I managed eventually to manoeuvre the awkward beast into position as part of the tractor training assessment.