With a disappointing forecast, strong winds and stormy skies, Belinda Lloyd, Assistant Farmland Warden and Jill Jones, Reserve Administrator set off to woman a stall at the Gilsland Show, supported by Ness and Bonnie the dog.
After the ordeal of setting up the gazebo in storm force winds, the team prepared themselves to receive the public and create a work of art, a “willow sheep”. The members of the public bravely turned out and the weather eased, the “willow sheep” progressed and attracted the attention of the passing public.
The show was deemed a success with heavy horses, local livestock, bag pipes, local produce and a busy beer tent.
Our stall enjoyed a good day, with staff chatting to local farmers, bird enthusiasts, lovers of arts & crafts and local families. Many of our visitors were interested in the plight of the hen harrier and our work on the reserve, the children liked our games and wildlife stickers. Exhausted and just a little damp we packed up after the end of a successful day.
The photograph shows Jill Jones and willow sheep keeping stall at the event.
Jill J