7th November 2024

Bishop Philip North embarks on “Harvest Heptathlon” across Lancashire Farms

Bishop Philip’s Harvest Heptathlon: A Whirlwind Day Across the Diocese.

On October 29, 2024, The Bishop of Blackburn; The Rt Revd Philip North embarked on an ambitious journey, visiting seven farms, with bonus stops at a school, and a farmer's auction.

This Harvest Heptathlon idea came following conversations with the Rural Focus group, and Bishop Philip had two hopes for the day: Firstly, to highlight some of the many issues which affect the people who produce our food and raise awareness for the challenges that farmers face in our rural communities. Secondly, to receive sponsorship for the Harvest Appeal which this year is going to support our Link Diocese of Multan in Pakistan and specifically be used for education projects in this part of the world.

Here’s a look at the day’s highlights, capturing the resilience and dedication that exemplifies our rural communities.

The First Stop: Bolton Fold Farm, Mellor Bright and early at 6:00 a.m., Bishop Philip arrived at Bolton Fold Farm, greeted by James and Sarah Seedall. Bishop Philip began the day by engaging with the morning routines of the farm to help James to milk the cows. Whilst they worked, they discussed the challenges that the farm faces: including the weather, finding cover to go on holiday, trying to make ends meet but also the love James has for farming and his cows despite these trials. Off to a great start!

Next Up: An Alpaca Adventure at Wood End Farm, Dunsop Bridge By 7:30 a.m., Bishop Philip was welcomed by Area Dean Rev. Liz McLean at Wood End Farm, known for its beloved alpacas. Here, he explored the farm’s unique offerings, learning about the diversification this farm has successfully achieved, welcoming schools and children’s parties at the farm to meet and walk the alpacas and even renting them out for weddings! Following a walk up the hill, alpacas on leads, Bishop Philip heard from the two sister farmers Alison and Janet about the diversification they have needed to do to bring in extra income and the mental health benefits that Alison has received from the animals.

Thirdly: Butlers Farmhouse Cheese: Wilson Fields Farm, Inglewhite About 9 mins behind schedule, Bishop Philip’s journey brought him to the heart of Lancashire’s dairy culture at Wilson Fields Farm, renowned for its cheese production. Here, Rev. Gregor Stewart and some members of the Butler family guided him through the farm’s cheese-making process, spotlighting the tradition of fine farmhouse cheese and the skill behind each handcrafted wheel. Bishop Philip had a go at turning some Lancashire curds and whey and helping to cover a Lancashire cheese wheel in muslin cloth. Gill Hall – a third-generation cheese maker allowed Philip to try some of the cheeses and spoke about the devastating fire and how they have managed to rebuild the business after losing their packing warehouse and all their stock just before Christmas 2023.

A Bonus Stop with Breakfast at Brock Auction After sampling some of the region’s dairy offerings, Bishop Philip made his way to Brock Auction in Claughton Le Brock for a working breakfast alongside Area Dean Rev. Andrew Wilkinson. This gathering brought together farmers and community members, where discussions ranged from the season’s yields to the church's role in supporting agricultural communities, grounding the visit in the fellowship of the rural community and the support and social aspects farmers receive from each other at the auctions. Philip also had a chat with Nina - a nurse who worked for The Field Nurse Trust that was set up in 2016 by a collective of local individuals to help reduce the risks of physical health of those living in rural areas, particularly farmers who may struggle to find the time to get make a doctor’s appointment.

Next up: Salt Marsh Lamb: Bank End Farm, Cockerham By late morning, Bishop Philip reached what seemed to him to be the end of the world; the extraordinary Bank End Farm in Cockerham to see their renowned salt marsh lamb. Rev. Gary Lewis introduced him to the farmers Stuart and Caroline Lawson, whose family have farmed this land for over a century. They shared their expertise on raising lamb on the marshlands, blending heritage with innovation in sustainable farming. Stuart and Caroline showed Bishop Philip how to use a tide timetable which is a vital tool on this farm as the whole marsh floods approximately seven time each month. Then he helped to identify the lambs who still needed fattening up and sent them back to graze some more samphire on the marshes.

Fifthly: Cutting-Edge Technology at Dolphinholme Robotic Milking Moving from tradition to technology, Bishop Philip arrived at Newland Home Farm in Dolphinholme, where he observed robotic milking systems alongside Rev. Canon Cindy Rigney and Curate Rev Pippalina Daniels. After looking at the robots in action, Philip shared lunch with the Morley family which gave the bishop insights into the price of milk, making a loss, holding onto hope in difficult times and how automation is transforming agriculture, allowing farmers to enhance efficiency while prioritizing animal welfare.

A Second Bonus with a Brief Visit to Dolphinholme C of E School Following his tour of the robotic milking, Bishop Philip made a brief stop at Dolphinholme Church of England School. Headteacher Joanne Mather and Rev. Canon Cindy Rigney welcomed him warmly, allowing him to hear the beautifully written and performed school song and providing him with a glimpse of the next generation who will carry forward their community’s farming and faith traditions.

Number six brings Bishop Philip to Botton Head Farm, Lowgill Now running behind schedule after the delightful school visit Bishop Philip discovers how far away some of these farms are as he arrived an hour late at Botton Head Farm, Lowgill, where Rev. Jane Lee, and the Taylor family greeted him. This farm visit highlighted the agricultural challenges and joys specific to the incredibly beautiful and remote region and the investment they have made to work in harmony with the environment. Bishop Philip helped to feed the cattle and heard about the rhythms of traditional farming life, about the seasonal challenges, working to help the local wildlife and how far away it is to buy a pint of milk.

Finally Stop Seven; Pumpkins and Fellowship: Greenlands Farm Village SUCCESS! Bishop Philip has achieved his aim and although well behind the schedule the final farm visit took him to Greenlands Farm Village in Carnforth just as the sun was setting. Joined by Rev Alice Ormondroyd, he took part in pumpkin picking, embracing this farm’s massive diversification into a hub of activities, including an open farm, reptile house, play barn and crazy golf. Bishop Philip spoke to George who works on the farm about his desire to help get visitors outdoors and educate families about where their food comes from.

Reflection and Completion of the Harvest Heptathlon Bishop Philip’s Harvest Heptathlon journey concluded, marking the end of a fruitful day of connection, discovery, and community engagement. His visit across The Blackburn Diocese embodied the Lancashire spirit, celebrating our rural communities and the values they uphold. This day, packed with meaningful encounters, served as a testament to Bishop Philip’s dedication to supporting and uplifting the Diocese of Blackburn with massive thanks to the farmers in our Diocese and all they do. Reflecting on the Harvest Heptathlon, Bishop Philip remarked: 

“I was deeply moved by the stories, strength, and warmth I encountered. Our farming communities are integral to both our local heritage and our Diocese, and this journey affirmed the critical role they play in our lives. I was so impressed by their resilience and imagination and all they do to bring food to our tables; they are an inspiration to us.”

Bishop Philip’s Harvest Heptathlon underscored the church’s commitment to supporting the Diocese of Blackburn’s rural communities while bringing attention to pressing agricultural issues. Funds raised from this year’s Harvest Appeal will empower educational projects in Multan, creating a meaningful connection between Lancashire and Pakistan.

To learn more about the Harvest appeal click here

To donate online click here

To watch more interviews from the day click here

Captions for the above photos, top to bottom:

• Bishop Philip Milking at Bolton Fold Farm
• Video of interview with James Seedall
• Bishop Philip with Alison and some Alpacas at Wood End Farm
• Video of interview with Gill Hall from Butlers Farmhouse Cheese
• Bishop Philip and a Salt Marsh Lamb
• Bishop Philip admiring a calf at Newland Home Farm
• Bishop Philip in a tractor at Botton Head Farm

Esther Tregilgas 2024