It only seems like yesterday I was writing this year’s first edition of my news update, and suddenly it’s December!

Out on the farms we are fully planted for next year and hoping for a better crop than this year. We only managed to harvest 40% of the crops we usually would because of the unprecedented wet weather experienced throughout the year. Sadly, that’s farming for you.

Earlier in the year, we were contacted by a group of volunteers from the British Trust of Ornithology, looking to carry out research on the birds in and around Wythall. The group aim to safely catch a variety of birds in the fields on-site and have them ringed, before releasing them for monitoring. Unfortunately, they have been fairly unsuccessful thus far, only managing to catch one Linnett. They will be back to try again soon, so I hope to have further updates for you next time.

My passion for golf continues as I was recently invited to York to play with some friends. I visited the Guy Fawkes Inn, aptly named as, to my surprise Guy Fawkes was born in York in 1570. York Minster is still as beautiful as ever and certainly worth a visit when in the city.

Most recently, I attended a Nuffield Farming Conference in Belfast. I was served my food by a robot in the airport – something I’m not sure our customers are ready for just yet! While there, I enjoyed dinner in the Titanic Museum which was very impressive and moving. I also had the opportunity to catch up with some old friends that I haven’t seen for 8 or 9 years, which was fantastic.

My wife and I have purchased a small static caravan in North Cornwall, as a bolthole. Even now, I get excited to see the sea, which is probably because of how far away we are! Luckily, I can speed up the journey by flying down in the helicopter. The farming has hugely diversified down there which is brilliant to see. Something a little less brilliant is that our nearest pub is 2 miles away! However, our newly purchased foldaway electric bikes come in very handy for this trip!!

The barns at Wood End are now for sale with Black and Golds. If you’re interested and looking to move in the area, be sure to contact the Black and Golds team for more information. Find out more here.

I was delighted to be invited to my goddaughter’s 21st Birthday party recently and even more delighted to see that chocolate is still the cake to have! It’s certainly a winner in my eyes.

On a city break to Alicante, we came across this bear and couldn’t resist a picture. I was hot enough, which made me wonder – what is it like for the bear!? A sign of true dedication to please the passers-by.

Christmas is coming at Becketts, with sprinkles of festivities throughout the Farm Shop and Restaurant. The Farm Shop is filled with magnificent gifts and hampers, mince pies and more. Don’t forget to pop by our Butchers counter to order a locally-sourced turkey for the big day. In our Restaurant, the team are now serving a Christmas specials menu of a lunchtime and a festive afternoon tea, both of which are not to be missed.

As this is my last update of 2024, I’d like to take the opportunity to thank all our friends, staff and customers for your support throughout the year and to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.

I look forward to welcoming you this Christmas time.

Until next time.
S.B.