0:00:00 > 0:00:00- 888
0:00:00 > 0:00:02- 888- - 888
0:00:12 > 0:00:22- Sion Williams, - the Buccleuch Estate, Scotland.
0:00:24 > 0:00:26- What a splendid view.
0:00:26 > 0:00:29- I'm in the Selkirk area of Scotland.
0:00:29 > 0:00:32- This is - the Duke of Buccleuch's estate.
0:00:32 > 0:00:36- The Duke is one of Europe's - biggest landowners.
0:00:36 > 0:00:41- A Welshman from Y Foel, Llangadfan, - is a manager on the estate...
0:00:42 > 0:00:43- ..Sion Williams.
0:00:44 > 0:00:48- I'm really looking forward - to seeing the animals here...
0:00:48 > 0:00:51- ..and enjoying - the wonderful countryside.
0:00:52 > 0:00:55- Selkirk is a town - in the northern Scottish Borders.
0:00:56 > 0:00:59- It lies between England - and Edinburgh.
0:00:59 > 0:01:02- We're visiting - the renowned Buccleuch Estate.
0:01:02 > 0:01:04- We're quite high up, Sion.
0:01:04 > 0:01:10- Yes. I'd say we're about... - 1,100 feet up.
0:01:10 > 0:01:14- October 2007
0:01:14 > 0:01:16- Let's take a look.
0:01:21 > 0:01:22- Good gracious!
0:01:23 > 0:01:25- Just look at those views.
0:01:26 > 0:01:27- Yes, some great views.
0:01:28 > 0:01:31- Does all this land - belong to the estate?
0:01:32 > 0:01:36- It owns roughly 1,000 acres - in this area.
0:01:36 > 0:01:37- Really?
0:01:38 > 0:01:39- We're quite high up.
0:01:40 > 0:01:44- You won't see many cattle up here - in winter.
0:01:44 > 0:01:48- No, cattle and sheep - are kept in sheds over winter.
0:01:49 > 0:01:53- We bring sheep back up here - for lambing.
0:01:54 > 0:01:58- Is that the mansion - where the Duke and his family live?
0:01:59 > 0:02:03- Yes, that's Bowhill House, - the Duke of Buccleuch's family seat.
0:02:03 > 0:02:07- It's one of four mansions - owned by the Duke.
0:02:07 > 0:02:09- It's a lovely landscape.
0:02:09 > 0:02:13- Obviously, those trees - have been planted.
0:02:13 > 0:02:15- They provide shelter.
0:02:15 > 0:02:18- We're quite fortunate. - There are lots of trees.
0:02:18 > 0:02:21- They provide shelter for the fields.
0:02:21 > 0:02:27- Do you employ people to fill in - your IACS forms, and so on?
0:02:27 > 0:02:30- I wouldn't know where to start!
0:02:30 > 0:02:33- I do all the IACS forms myself.
0:02:33 > 0:02:37- I used to work for Scotland's - equivalent of Defra.
0:02:37 > 0:02:38- It's called SEERAD.
0:02:39 > 0:02:41- So I fill in all the IACS forms.
0:02:41 > 0:02:42- So I fill in all the IACS forms.- - How many pages is that?
0:02:42 > 0:02:43- How many pages is that?
0:02:43 > 0:02:48- It was 19 pages this year. - It varies from year to year.
0:02:48 > 0:02:50- 19 pages!
0:02:50 > 0:02:53- How many acres do you farm?
0:02:53 > 0:02:57- At the moment, - we farm about 6,000 acres.
0:02:57 > 0:02:59- This block of 1,000 acres...
0:02:59 > 0:03:02- ..and another block - behind those trees...
0:03:03 > 0:03:05- ..which covers about 5,000 acres.
0:03:05 > 0:03:07- Most of it is mountain.
0:03:07 > 0:03:10- Most of it is mountain.- - Isn't there a farm in Langholm too?
0:03:10 > 0:03:15- Yes. Across the whole estate, - we farm about 38,000 acres.
0:03:16 > 0:03:19- The Duke owns 270,000 acres.
0:03:20 > 0:03:21- Really?
0:03:21 > 0:03:25- Most of land is similar to this - - mountain land.
0:03:25 > 0:03:26- It's still a lot of acres though.
0:03:26 > 0:03:28- It's still a lot of acres though.- - At one time, mountain land...
0:03:28 > 0:03:28- At one time, mountain land...
0:03:28 > 0:03:32- ..was worth more than land - in the valleys.
0:03:32 > 0:03:34- Things have changed.
0:03:40 > 0:03:45- A large estate like the Buccleuch - Estate has many farms of course.
0:03:45 > 0:03:48- There's plenty of work to be done.
0:03:48 > 0:03:52- Today, the older cows - have been taken away...
0:03:52 > 0:03:55- ..and their calves - are calling after them.
0:03:55 > 0:03:57- They're kept in over winter.
0:03:58 > 0:04:01- Sion is carrying out - essential preparations.
0:04:03 > 0:04:05- As every farmer knows...
0:04:05 > 0:04:09- ..controlling intestinal worms - and lice is a constant battle.
0:04:10 > 0:04:13- This applies to sheep - as well as cattle.
0:04:14 > 0:04:18- Sion shaves the calves' backs - before dosing them against worms...
0:04:18 > 0:04:20- ..and treating them for lice.
0:04:20 > 0:04:24- Shaving also prevents - the calves from sweating too much.
0:04:24 > 0:04:29- These calves have been separated - from their mothers at a young age...
0:04:29 > 0:04:33- ..because the old cows - must be taken away.
0:04:34 > 0:04:37- Nevertheless, - these calves have done quite well.
0:05:00 > 0:05:03- Such drama! - These crushes are useful things.
0:05:05 > 0:05:07- Charolais are the worst.
0:05:08 > 0:05:09- Do you think so?
0:05:11 > 0:05:13- Lims are better.
0:05:17 > 0:05:19- What are you doing today?
0:05:19 > 0:05:22- These calves are younger than usual.
0:05:22 > 0:05:23- Yes.
0:05:24 > 0:05:25- Are you weighing them?
0:05:25 > 0:05:27- Have the mothers been taken away?
0:05:27 > 0:05:28- Have the mothers been taken away?- - That's right, under the OCDS.
0:05:28 > 0:05:29- That's right, under the OCDS.
0:05:29 > 0:05:32- We have to get rid of them...
0:05:32 > 0:05:32- We have to get rid of them...- - LOUD CRASH
0:05:32 > 0:05:33- LOUD CRASH
0:05:34 > 0:05:35- ..before November or December.
0:05:36 > 0:05:39- We have to get rid of them.
0:05:39 > 0:05:40- Are you keeping these inside?
0:05:40 > 0:05:41- Are you keeping these inside?- - Yes, we're keeping them in.
0:05:41 > 0:05:42- Yes, we're keeping them in.
0:05:42 > 0:05:45- We're vaccinating them - against pneumonia...
0:05:46 > 0:05:51- ..treating them for lice and shaving - them so they don't sweat so much.
0:05:51 > 0:05:54- Do you weigh every calf?
0:05:54 > 0:05:57- That's right. - That's what we're doing here.
0:05:58 > 0:06:01- We weigh them after taking them - from their mothers.
0:06:01 > 0:06:04- We get an idea of how they're doing.
0:06:04 > 0:06:06- You note the tag number.
0:06:07 > 0:06:08- Is that electronic?
0:06:08 > 0:06:08- Is that electronic?- - Yes.
0:06:08 > 0:06:09- Yes.
0:06:10 > 0:06:13- It records all - the veterinary information.
0:06:13 > 0:06:16- That's useful, especially - with large herds likes yours.
0:06:17 > 0:06:19- Yes, it saves a lot of time.
0:06:19 > 0:06:20- Yes, it saves a lot of time.- - And a lot of office work.
0:06:20 > 0:06:21- And a lot of office work.
0:06:22 > 0:06:24- I couldn't do without it.
0:06:24 > 0:06:27- It spares me a lot of paperwork.
0:06:28 > 0:06:32- You can tell they're young calves - from the way they're lowing.
0:06:33 > 0:06:34- That's right.
0:06:35 > 0:06:38- Some of them - are just four months old.
0:06:38 > 0:06:39- They're a bit young.
0:06:39 > 0:06:40- They're a bit young.- - What else can you do?
0:06:40 > 0:06:42- What else can you do?
0:06:42 > 0:06:47- You have to get rid of the mothers - before a certain date.
0:06:47 > 0:06:49- It's the law these days.
0:06:50 > 0:06:52- You've got a good helper.
0:06:53 > 0:06:55- Do you find staff fairly easily?
0:06:55 > 0:06:56- Do you find staff fairly easily?- - It's quite difficult.
0:06:56 > 0:06:56- It's quite difficult.
0:06:56 > 0:07:01- It's fine once we've got them, - but finding staff can be difficult.
0:07:02 > 0:07:06- One cow rears one calf - - that's the system here.
0:07:06 > 0:07:09- Many of the cattle - are Continental breeds.
0:07:10 > 0:07:12- They need more concentrated feeding.
0:07:12 > 0:07:14- This is large-scale farming.
0:07:14 > 0:07:18- But there's plenty of land - to grow food.
0:07:18 > 0:07:23- There's nothing quite like milling - and mixing your own feed.
0:07:23 > 0:07:24- You know what's in it.
0:07:24 > 0:07:25- You know what's in it.- - We know where it comes from.
0:07:25 > 0:07:27- We know where it comes from.
0:07:27 > 0:07:29- It's expensive to buy nowadays.
0:07:29 > 0:07:33- How much barley and wheat - do you grow?
0:07:33 > 0:07:35- We usually grow 100 acres.
0:07:36 > 0:07:37- 100 acres.
0:07:38 > 0:07:41- Well, we harvested - only 55 acres this year.
0:07:41 > 0:07:45- We'll do more next year - because prices are increasing.
0:07:45 > 0:07:47- Prices have doubled.
0:07:47 > 0:07:48- Is this for the bulls?
0:07:48 > 0:07:49- Is this for the bulls?- - Yes, for the bulls.
0:07:50 > 0:07:53- I'll follow you - otherwise I'll get lost!
0:07:54 > 0:07:56- Look - the sun's coming out!
0:07:56 > 0:07:57- Yes.
0:07:58 > 0:08:00- Let's hope it stays this way.
0:08:16 > 0:08:18- Let's feed the cattle.
0:08:25 > 0:08:29- Come on, then! - Come on, come on, come on!
0:08:29 > 0:08:34- They not in any hurry - that shows - they're getting enough food.
0:08:34 > 0:08:35- You have good hay.
0:08:36 > 0:08:39- We've been lucky with the hay - this year.
0:08:39 > 0:08:40- We didn't harvest it until August.
0:08:40 > 0:08:42- We didn't harvest it until August.- - What will you do with these?
0:08:42 > 0:08:43- What will you do with these?
0:08:43 > 0:08:48- We sold one last year in Carlisle, - but most are sold privately.
0:08:48 > 0:08:51- It's very convenient for us.
0:08:51 > 0:08:54- Most of our buyers - come back for more.
0:08:55 > 0:08:56- They're nice bulls.
0:08:56 > 0:09:00- They haven't been overdone, - like some bulls are.
0:09:00 > 0:09:03- We've only just started - feeding them.
0:09:03 > 0:09:06- They'll be kept inside this winter.
0:09:06 > 0:09:09- You've been breeding cattle - for years...
0:09:09 > 0:09:12- ..and you're proud of your cattle.
0:09:12 > 0:09:16- You know it's a mistake - to bring them on too quickly.
0:09:17 > 0:09:18- It spoils them.
0:09:18 > 0:09:18- It spoils them.- - Rams are the same.
0:09:18 > 0:09:20- Rams are the same.
0:09:20 > 0:09:22- Some rams are so unfit.
0:09:22 > 0:09:24- They're pushed too fast.
0:09:24 > 0:09:28- We find it's the case - with Charolais too.
0:09:28 > 0:09:31- They can grow too quickly - when they're young.
0:09:31 > 0:09:36- These Aberdeens are very fine - cattle and the perfect colour.
0:09:36 > 0:09:40- But there's one shade of black - that's even better!
0:09:40 > 0:09:41- Would that be the Welsh Black?!
0:09:41 > 0:09:42- Would that be the Welsh Black?!- - Let's go! I'll close the gate.
0:09:42 > 0:09:43- Let's go! I'll close the gate.
0:09:54 > 0:09:56- These fields are big.
0:09:57 > 0:09:59- Good places for working dogs.
0:10:00 > 0:10:03- We hold sheepdog trials here.
0:10:06 > 0:10:08- This is a huge field, Sion.
0:10:08 > 0:10:08- This is a huge field, Sion.- - Yes, it's quite big.
0:10:08 > 0:10:10- Yes, it's quite big.
0:10:10 > 0:10:11- It's one of our best fields.
0:10:11 > 0:10:13- It's one of our best fields.- - How big would you say?
0:10:13 > 0:10:14- About 35 acres.
0:10:15 > 0:10:18- What did you grow here? - Barley or wheat?
0:10:18 > 0:10:20- Barley.
0:10:20 > 0:10:24- There's also a strip of grass - around the edges.
0:10:24 > 0:10:27- It's one of these - environmental schemes.
0:10:27 > 0:10:31- They call it a beetle bank - or grass margin.
0:10:31 > 0:10:32- It helps beetles.
0:10:33 > 0:10:35- There are cattle on the hillside...
0:10:36 > 0:10:39- ..Aberdeen cattle - and Charolais calves.
0:10:39 > 0:10:40- That's right.
0:10:41 > 0:10:45- They're all commercial cattle apart - from the Aberdeen Angus heifers.
0:10:45 > 0:10:47- They calve easily.
0:10:47 > 0:10:50- Do you sell the calves as stores?
0:10:51 > 0:10:55- No, we take them to another - estate - Thornhill in Dumfries.
0:10:55 > 0:10:57- It has a fattening unit.
0:10:57 > 0:11:01- Most of the cattle are produced - for our own meat company...
0:11:01 > 0:11:03- ..Buccleuch Scotch Beef.
0:11:03 > 0:11:06- I've noticed Buccleuch Beef - in hotels.
0:11:06 > 0:11:09- Yes. Cattle are slaughtered - in an abattoir...
0:11:10 > 0:11:12- ..and we process it ourselves.
0:11:12 > 0:11:17- Most of the meat is sent to - big hotels in London...
0:11:17 > 0:11:18- ..like The Ritz and The Carlton.
0:11:18 > 0:11:21- ..like The Ritz and The Carlton.- - And this is where it comes from!
0:11:21 > 0:11:23- What place could be healthier?
0:11:23 > 0:11:26- We're trying to focus - on conventional farming...
0:11:27 > 0:11:29- ..rather than intensive farming.
0:11:30 > 0:11:33- It's good to have plenty of space.
0:11:34 > 0:11:38- What do you give an elephant - with diarrhoea?
0:11:38 > 0:11:39- Plenty of space!
0:11:39 > 0:11:40- .
0:11:48 > 0:11:48- 888
0:11:48 > 0:11:50- 888- - 888
0:11:52 > 0:11:56- The estate is experimenting - with Continental sheep breeds.
0:11:56 > 0:12:01- Some of them, such as the - Australian Suffolks, are very new.
0:12:01 > 0:12:04- One of Sion's first customers - is his father...
0:12:05 > 0:12:08- ..who has come all the way - from Y Foel.
0:12:08 > 0:12:11- The bill is the same though.
0:12:12 > 0:12:14- Look after your father.
0:12:14 > 0:12:15- Do a proper job of it.
0:12:15 > 0:12:17- Do a proper job of it.- - He drives a hard bargain!
0:12:17 > 0:12:17- He drives a hard bargain!
0:12:18 > 0:12:21- These rams certainly - don't come cheap.
0:12:22 > 0:12:25- We have better rams up here!
0:12:26 > 0:12:29- These rams haven't been overdone - which is good.
0:12:29 > 0:12:32- They'll get to work straight away.
0:12:32 > 0:12:34- Rams at sales are too fat to move.
0:12:34 > 0:12:36- Rams at sales are too fat to move.- - We keep ram lambs...
0:12:36 > 0:12:36- We keep ram lambs...
0:12:36 > 0:12:39- ..and sell them when they're older.
0:12:39 > 0:12:42- Don't you have a small flock - of Texels?
0:12:43 > 0:12:47- We have 50 of each type - Texel, - Charollais and Suffolk.
0:12:47 > 0:12:49- We bought just one ram.
0:12:49 > 0:12:54- We bred the rest ourselves - rather than buy more rams.
0:12:54 > 0:12:56- It works out very cheap.
0:12:56 > 0:12:58- They adapt to the location too.
0:12:58 > 0:12:59- They adapt to the location too.- - Yes, they adapt to the environment.
0:12:59 > 0:13:01- Yes, they adapt to the environment.
0:13:01 > 0:13:04- Do you make this trip once a year?
0:13:04 > 0:13:05- Do you make this trip once a year?- - This is his first trip.
0:13:05 > 0:13:06- This is his first trip.
0:13:07 > 0:13:09- I hope it won't be the last.
0:13:12 > 0:13:15- There isn't much traffic - around here.
0:13:16 > 0:13:19- No, though it's usually busiest - in the morning.
0:13:23 > 0:13:27- There are thousands of sheep - on the Buccleuch Estate.
0:13:27 > 0:13:30- The specialize - in breeding new breeds...
0:13:31 > 0:13:34- ..breeds that survive - without concentrates.
0:13:34 > 0:13:37- They're raised - here in the mountains.
0:13:37 > 0:13:39- There are several breeds.
0:13:39 > 0:13:42- But despite the wonders - of progress...
0:13:43 > 0:13:47- ..the boys must still drive the - sheep into a corner of a field...
0:13:47 > 0:13:49- ..to catch them!
0:13:49 > 0:13:55- They may use modern machinery, - but they still need sheepdogs.
0:13:55 > 0:14:00- They want to pick out - one or two of these sheep.
0:14:00 > 0:14:06- These sheepdogs aren't a very common - breed in Wales - they're Beardies.
0:14:06 > 0:14:08- They're very intelligent dogs.
0:14:11 > 0:14:13- They're a decent size, Sion.
0:14:13 > 0:14:15- Yes. They're a mixed lot.
0:14:16 > 0:14:18- The dark-headed sheep are Primeras.
0:14:19 > 0:14:22- The white-headed sheep - are Highlanders.
0:14:22 > 0:14:25- All of these Highlanders - are under 45 kilos.
0:14:25 > 0:14:27- When were they born? In April?
0:14:27 > 0:14:28- When were they born? In April?- - That's right.
0:14:28 > 0:14:30- They're all April lambs.
0:14:30 > 0:14:34- The dark-headed sheep are - terminal sires, as they're called.
0:14:35 > 0:14:39- The Highlanders are maternal sires. - They're used for further breeding.
0:14:39 > 0:14:43- We produce them in order to breed - more ewes.
0:14:43 > 0:14:45- They're fine-looking lambs.
0:14:45 > 0:14:49- I was studying those sheep - you caught earlier.
0:14:49 > 0:14:51- They have good broad backs.
0:14:51 > 0:14:56- They have broad backs - but they don't carry so much fat.
0:14:56 > 0:15:00- The idea is to produce leaner meat - for the customer.
0:15:04 > 0:15:08- The estate is experimenting - with many different breeds...
0:15:08 > 0:15:10- ..from other countries.
0:15:10 > 0:15:14- The aim is to produce better lambs - from hardy mountain ewes.
0:15:15 > 0:15:18- Autumn is an important season, - of course.
0:15:19 > 0:15:24- Sheep have to be in the best - of health and they must conceive...
0:15:24 > 0:15:28- ..so that they produce lambs - the following year.
0:15:28 > 0:15:31- Sion and the shepherds are busy.
0:15:32 > 0:15:35- You have many different breeds here.
0:15:35 > 0:15:37- There's a real mixture.
0:15:37 > 0:15:41- These are Charollais. - But most of them are Suffolks.
0:15:42 > 0:15:46- These are the mothers - of our pedigree stock.
0:15:46 > 0:15:48- We're sorting through them.
0:15:48 > 0:15:50- We're reducing numbers...
0:15:50 > 0:15:54- ..because we're going for the - New Zealand Highlander type.
0:15:54 > 0:15:57- We're reducing the number - of terminal sires.
0:15:57 > 0:16:01- It's becoming a common system - in Wales...
0:16:01 > 0:16:04- ..using the Glamorgan - or Wiltshire breeds.
0:16:04 > 0:16:06- Wool has no value these days.
0:16:06 > 0:16:07- Wool has no value these days.- - No, none at all.
0:16:07 > 0:16:08- No, none at all.
0:16:08 > 0:16:12- We know from experience that - what we receive for the wool...
0:16:13 > 0:16:16- ..doesn't cover the cost - of shearing.
0:16:17 > 0:16:19- They're fine Suffolks. Nice heads.
0:16:19 > 0:16:21- They're a good length.
0:16:21 > 0:16:24- Yes. We've been working on these - for years.
0:16:25 > 0:16:28- We'll be crossing these - with New Zealand rams.
0:16:28 > 0:16:31- What about Charollais? - Do you have many?
0:16:31 > 0:16:33- They're good for fat lambs.
0:16:33 > 0:16:37- We keep Charollais - because the lambs mature quickly.
0:16:37 > 0:16:40- We can sell Charollais lambs - earlier.
0:16:41 > 0:16:45- They're fine as long as - they survive the first month.
0:16:45 > 0:16:47- They have short coats.
0:16:47 > 0:16:50- But Charollais lambs - are actually better than Suffolks.
0:16:50 > 0:16:54- You couldn't wish for smarter sheep, - could you?
0:17:02 > 0:17:06- When winds blow and storms rage - during the lambing season...
0:17:06 > 0:17:10- ..there's no such thing - as too many sheds.
0:17:10 > 0:17:12- They have plenty at Buccleuch.
0:17:12 > 0:17:15- Do you like these polytunnels?
0:17:15 > 0:17:17- We got these by default really.
0:17:18 > 0:17:22- Our sheep shed caught fire - in the middle of February...
0:17:22 > 0:17:27- ..so these had to be built quickly - ready for lambing in March.
0:17:27 > 0:17:31- This polytunnel seems sturdier - than any I've seen before.
0:17:31 > 0:17:35- It's nearly five years old. - It's still in good condition.
0:17:35 > 0:17:38- There's plenty of light in here.
0:17:38 > 0:17:40- It's nice to work in.
0:17:40 > 0:17:42- It's fresher than a shed.
0:17:43 > 0:17:46- Pneumonia becomes a problem - when sheds are too confined.
0:17:47 > 0:17:49- It's like a greenhouse though.
0:17:49 > 0:17:55- When the weather's hot, it's hot - inside. When it's cold, it's cold.
0:17:55 > 0:18:00- Do you keep Suffolks and Charollais - in here and mountain sheep outside?
0:18:01 > 0:18:03- Yes. They lamb outside in mid April.
0:18:03 > 0:18:04- Yes. They lamb outside in mid April.- - When does lambing start?
0:18:04 > 0:18:04- When does lambing start?
0:18:05 > 0:18:08- The larger sheep - start lambing around March 18.
0:18:09 > 0:18:11- Is that when they start?
0:18:12 > 0:18:15- Then, it's early April - for the embryos.
0:18:16 > 0:18:20- A lot of the larger sheep - lamb outdoors in mid April.
0:18:21 > 0:18:22- Easy care, as they call it.
0:18:22 > 0:18:23- Easy care, as they call it.- - That's the idea.
0:18:23 > 0:18:24- That's the idea.
0:18:24 > 0:18:28- We're trying to do this - in order to cut costs.
0:18:29 > 0:18:33- We use these tunnels - to house sheep in mid winter.
0:18:33 > 0:18:36- It saves the grass for later.
0:18:36 > 0:18:41- It costs less to keep them in here - on silage in winter...
0:18:41 > 0:18:44- ..instead of giving them - cake and silage.
0:18:44 > 0:18:48- I suppose this can accommodate - about 250 sheep.
0:18:48 > 0:18:52- 120 on each side - maybe more - when they're not lambing.
0:18:52 > 0:18:57- We can house 12,000 sheep in all - - with barriers, of course.
0:18:58 > 0:19:00- What about the pens?
0:19:00 > 0:19:02- They're all in pens.
0:19:02 > 0:19:05- It works out quite cheap.
0:19:05 > 0:19:08- Though sheds are better - for storing straw.
0:19:09 > 0:19:13- I'm thinking about the prices - for lambs and sheep.
0:19:13 > 0:19:17- You need space for 12,000, - just for lambing.
0:19:17 > 0:19:19- The costs mount up.
0:19:19 > 0:19:22- Lambing indoors - isn't as cost-effective.
0:19:22 > 0:19:25- Things are about to change.
0:19:25 > 0:19:29- But you need good dogs outside - - and they're not cheap.
0:19:52 > 0:19:55- Can you hold the other side, Dai?
0:19:59 > 0:20:01- Hold his other horn.
0:20:01 > 0:20:03- I'll twist his head up.
0:20:05 > 0:20:06- It's stuck fast.
0:20:07 > 0:20:09- Now then, it's coming.
0:20:13 > 0:20:16- Blimey, look at those horns!
0:20:16 > 0:20:18- Very big horns.
0:20:19 > 0:20:21- That's a strong ram.
0:20:25 > 0:20:28- This is Bowhill House, - the family's ancestral home.
0:20:29 > 0:20:32- The family has now diversified...
0:20:32 > 0:20:35- ..and the house is open to visitors.
0:20:36 > 0:20:39- Fishing is another line - of business...
0:20:39 > 0:20:41- ..carried out on a grand scale.
0:20:42 > 0:20:46- There are several good rivers - on the estate.
0:20:46 > 0:20:49- Anglers come here from far and wide.
0:20:49 > 0:20:53- Pheasants are also bred - on the estate.
0:21:08 > 0:21:10- They're feeding.
0:21:11 > 0:21:12- That's a lot of pheasants.
0:21:12 > 0:21:13- That's a lot of pheasants.- - Yes, quite a lot.
0:21:13 > 0:21:14- Yes, quite a lot.
0:21:16 > 0:21:17- Are they fed twice a day?
0:21:17 > 0:21:19- Are they fed twice a day?- - Yes, they're fed twice a day.
0:21:19 > 0:21:20- Yes, they're fed twice a day.
0:21:20 > 0:21:23- They're nearly ready - for the shooting season.
0:21:24 > 0:21:27- Shooting is a popular pastime here - of course.
0:21:28 > 0:21:29- Yes.
0:21:29 > 0:21:29- Yes.- - Part of the farm's income?
0:21:29 > 0:21:31- Part of the farm's income?
0:21:31 > 0:21:34- No, this is a different business.
0:21:34 > 0:21:36- Shooting is a separate business.
0:21:37 > 0:21:40- There are four different businesses.
0:21:40 > 0:21:43- Forestry and timber - form one of the businesses.
0:21:44 > 0:21:48- Then, there's the shooting - - or sporting as they call it.
0:21:48 > 0:21:52- There's farming - and there's also - a building services business...
0:21:52 > 0:21:55- ..which maintains all the houses - and farm buildings on the estate.
0:21:56 > 0:21:59- How many birds - do you rear each year?
0:21:59 > 0:22:03- We usually plan for - 25,000 pheasants every year.
0:22:03 > 0:22:04- We have grouse as well.
0:22:04 > 0:22:05- We have grouse as well.- - That must cost a lot.
0:22:05 > 0:22:07- That must cost a lot.
0:22:07 > 0:22:09- It takes three full-time workers.
0:22:10 > 0:22:13- Four full-time workers - with the pheasants.
0:22:13 > 0:22:16- It's become an important part - of the estate.
0:22:17 > 0:22:20- Yes. People come from everywhere - to shoot.
0:22:20 > 0:22:23- There are some adult cocks - with long tails.
0:22:24 > 0:22:25- Yes - last year's birds.
0:22:27 > 0:22:30- That doesn't say much - for the shots!
0:22:30 > 0:22:32- They obviously missed!
0:22:32 > 0:22:32- .
0:22:36 > 0:22:36- 888
0:22:36 > 0:22:38- 888- - 888
0:23:04 > 0:23:08- Modern life has caught up - with the sheep at Buccleuch.
0:23:09 > 0:23:12- It's autumn, - and the sheep must be sponged.
0:23:12 > 0:23:15- These are cross-bred sheep - or mules.
0:23:15 > 0:23:21- They're sponged so that they'll all - give birth at roughly the same time.
0:23:21 > 0:23:25- It means the shepherds - can work more efficiently.
0:23:25 > 0:23:27- The ewes are given a drug...
0:23:28 > 0:23:32- ..that makes them all ovulate - at the same time.
0:23:44 > 0:23:47- These Scottish mules - are sturdy sheep.
0:23:47 > 0:23:51- They will need feeding - when the weather turns colder.
0:23:52 > 0:23:56- They were bred from mountain sheep - originally - Scottish Blackface.
0:23:57 > 0:24:01- These ewes usually have twins - or even triplets.
0:24:01 > 0:24:03- What are you doing exactly today?
0:24:03 > 0:24:05- You're sponging the ewes.
0:24:06 > 0:24:09- Are they older ewes or fairly young?
0:24:09 > 0:24:12- They're between 18 months - and five years old.
0:24:13 > 0:24:16- We've taken the older sheep out.
0:24:17 > 0:24:19- We're sponging these ewes today...
0:24:19 > 0:24:23- ..then they'll be implanted with - Rissington embryos from New Zealand.
0:24:24 > 0:24:27- We're implanting 400 ewes - with embryos this year.
0:24:27 > 0:24:30- What will you do - with the Rissingtons?
0:24:31 > 0:24:33- We'll keep the ram lambs...
0:24:33 > 0:24:38- ..then sell the next generation of - ram lambs and keep the ewe lambs.
0:24:38 > 0:24:41- We're going for an easy-care system.
0:24:42 > 0:24:45- We're hoping to supply - Marks and Spencer.
0:24:46 > 0:24:50- Having a market for your produce - is half the battle.
0:24:50 > 0:24:53- You have to think of the customer.
0:24:54 > 0:24:56- When the market settles down...
0:24:56 > 0:25:00- ..lamb production should become - more profitable.
0:25:00 > 0:25:01- Things are improving already.
0:25:02 > 0:25:04- There's a big demand for rams.
0:25:04 > 0:25:07- We've sold 130 this year.
0:25:07 > 0:25:09- How hardy are these sheep?
0:25:10 > 0:25:12- The New Zealand crosses?
0:25:13 > 0:25:15- They do fine on the mountain.
0:25:30 > 0:25:32- These are male cross-bred lambs.
0:25:33 > 0:25:36- Yes. They're going for slaughter - tomorrow.
0:25:36 > 0:25:38- They're for Marks and Spencer.
0:25:38 > 0:25:42- Some have white heads - and some have dark heads.
0:25:42 > 0:25:46- The dark-headed ones - are from Scottish Blackface sheep.
0:25:46 > 0:25:49- The others are Cheviot crosses.
0:25:49 > 0:25:54- We cross both breeds - with New Zealand Highlanders.
0:25:54 > 0:25:58- Is it your aim to produce - a better-shaped lamb...
0:25:59 > 0:26:00- ..that can survive on the mountain?
0:26:00 > 0:26:02- ..that can survive on the mountain?- - A better-shaped lamb...
0:26:02 > 0:26:06- ..will bring us more money - in the long term...
0:26:06 > 0:26:08- ..from the sale of rams...
0:26:08 > 0:26:11- ..and the ewes are easy-care.
0:26:11 > 0:26:15- We'll also be producing lambs - for the market...
0:26:15 > 0:26:18- ..instead of trying to find - a market.
0:26:18 > 0:26:23- These lambs are sold - to companies like Marks and Spencer.
0:26:23 > 0:26:26- Though you only get a few pence - per kilo...
0:26:27 > 0:26:31- ..those few pence still count - at the end of the day.
0:26:32 > 0:26:36- They contribute a lot when you're - dealing with large numbers.
0:26:36 > 0:26:39- So these are going for slaughter - tomorrow.
0:26:39 > 0:26:40- They're certainly up to weight.
0:26:40 > 0:26:41- They're certainly up to weight.- - They've been ready for a week.
0:26:41 > 0:26:43- They've been ready for a week.
0:26:44 > 0:26:46- They're on sparse grazing.
0:26:46 > 0:26:51- We had to keep them back - because of foot and mouth disease.
0:26:51 > 0:26:55- It's interesting to see - how farmers work.
0:26:55 > 0:26:56- We have to do these things.
0:26:56 > 0:26:58- We have to do these things.- - We have to - you're right.
0:26:58 > 0:26:58- We have to - you're right.
0:26:59 > 0:27:00- Scholars, accountants or lawyers...
0:27:01 > 0:27:04- ..say they can't change - working practices...
0:27:04 > 0:27:06- ..but farmers have to adapt.
0:27:16 > 0:27:18- I must say, quite honestly...
0:27:19 > 0:27:22- ..I love Montgomeryshire - and Ceredigion...
0:27:22 > 0:27:26- ..but this must be one of the - loveliest areas I've ever seen.
0:27:27 > 0:27:30- It's an interesting area - where tradition is still strong.
0:27:31 > 0:27:34- Tradition is still strong - on the estate itself.
0:27:35 > 0:27:37- It's a nice area.
0:27:37 > 0:27:42- It's a pleasure to see such stock, - the cattle and the sheep.
0:27:55 > 0:27:58- They're from our second herd.
0:27:58 > 0:28:01- These have been selected - for selling.
0:28:01 > 0:28:04- They'll all be sold apart from one.
0:28:04 > 0:28:07- You also have a pure Aberdeen herd.
0:28:07 > 0:28:07- You also have a pure Aberdeen herd.- - Yes.
0:28:07 > 0:28:08- Yes.
0:28:08 > 0:28:10- These are all pure Aberdeen Angus.
0:28:10 > 0:28:11- These are all pure Aberdeen Angus.- - How old are they?
0:28:11 > 0:28:12- How old are they?
0:28:12 > 0:28:17- They'll be three years old - and ready to calve in March.
0:28:17 > 0:28:20- They're all in calf at the moment.
0:28:21 > 0:28:23- Do you sell them locally?
0:28:23 > 0:28:28- Yes. There's a special sale - for Aberdeen Angus in St Boswells.
0:28:28 > 0:28:31- That's where we sell them - every year.
0:28:31 > 0:28:35- How much do you get for them - on average?
0:28:35 > 0:28:38- Last year we got 1,400.
0:28:38 > 0:28:39- Each?
0:28:39 > 0:28:40- Each?- - Yes, on average.
0:28:40 > 0:28:41- Yes, on average.
0:28:41 > 0:28:43- That's a good price.
0:28:43 > 0:28:45- Two cows sold for 2,500.
0:28:45 > 0:28:48- Do you keep the best cattle?
0:28:48 > 0:28:49- Yes, we keep the best.
0:28:49 > 0:28:50- Yes, we keep the best.- - They're fine cattle.
0:28:50 > 0:28:51- They're fine cattle.
0:28:51 > 0:28:53- Yes, they're looking good.
0:28:54 > 0:28:57- They usually calve - when they're two years old...
0:28:57 > 0:29:04- ..but we calve in spring, so we - prefer to let them grow a bit first.
0:29:05 > 0:29:08- Is it John - who looks after the cattle?
0:29:09 > 0:29:13- John looks after the cattle - - there are 200 cattle.
0:29:13 > 0:29:15- 100 of them are pedigree Angus.
0:29:16 > 0:29:19- We're lucky to have people - like John.
0:29:19 > 0:29:20- John, you've been here a fair time.
0:29:20 > 0:29:22- John, you've been here a fair time.- - 33 years.
0:29:22 > 0:29:22- 33 years.
0:29:22 > 0:29:24- 33?
0:29:24 > 0:29:26- And you've enjoyed every second?
0:29:26 > 0:29:28- And you've enjoyed every second?- - Oh aye. It's a good life.
0:29:29 > 0:29:32- It's changed though - since you first came.
0:29:32 > 0:29:33- A lot, yes.
0:29:33 > 0:29:33- A lot, yes.- - How many cows were here...
0:29:33 > 0:29:35- How many cows were here...
0:29:36 > 0:29:37- ..when you came here?
0:29:38 > 0:29:39- 1,000 cows.
0:29:39 > 0:29:42- And not the facilities - you have today.
0:29:42 > 0:29:45- No, more manual work then.
0:29:45 > 0:29:49- Did you sell all those calves - in one sale?
0:29:49 > 0:29:51- St Boswells, in one day.
0:29:51 > 0:29:51- St Boswells, in one day.- - How many calves?
0:29:51 > 0:29:52- How many calves?
0:29:52 > 0:29:55- About 940 or 950 in one day.
0:29:57 > 0:30:01- Two or three hours selling nothing - but Buccleuch calves.
0:30:01 > 0:30:02- Good God!
0:30:02 > 0:30:08- It's great to shake the hand - of a man that's been here 33 years.
0:30:09 > 0:30:13- When you retire, - you can tell us what to do!
0:30:13 > 0:30:17- You're learning all the time - in this job.
0:30:27 > 0:30:29- There are pheasants everywhere.
0:30:29 > 0:30:31- They're pretty.
0:30:32 > 0:30:34- How many thousands of pheasants?
0:30:34 > 0:30:36- About 48,000.
0:30:36 > 0:30:38- 48,000!
0:30:38 > 0:30:40- Good gracious!
0:30:43 > 0:30:50- These are the cows we use - to keep the herd going.
0:30:50 > 0:30:53- They're pure Angus.
0:30:53 > 0:30:54- They have scope.
0:30:55 > 0:30:59- The largest - must weigh 800 or 900 kilos.
0:30:59 > 0:31:06- Many of them weigh around 800 kilos - and a few go up to 900 kilos.
0:31:06 > 0:31:09- And there are the bulls - of the future.
0:31:09 > 0:31:11- Yes. We're keeping these entire.
0:31:12 > 0:31:14- They have the potential to sell.
0:31:14 > 0:31:18- We have to register them - as pure Angus...
0:31:18 > 0:31:21- ..so we're choosing - which ones to register.
0:31:21 > 0:31:24- It's a nice environment for them.
0:31:24 > 0:31:28- Yes, it's a lovely area. - We're in the Etterick Valley.
0:31:29 > 0:31:34- It must be one of the best areas - for stock in Scotland...
0:31:34 > 0:31:35- ..from Selkirk down to Kelso.
0:31:35 > 0:31:36- ..from Selkirk down to Kelso.- - Kelso and the Borders...
0:31:36 > 0:31:37- Kelso and the Borders...
0:31:37 > 0:31:40- ..is a very good area for stock.
0:31:41 > 0:31:44- It grows a lot of barley and wheat.
0:31:44 > 0:31:46- That's right, yes.
0:31:47 > 0:31:51- The mountain dictates the breeds - of animals you keep though.
0:31:51 > 0:31:54- Yes. That's the reason - behind our choices.
0:31:54 > 0:31:58- The animals must be - able to survive up here.
0:31:59 > 0:32:02- How many cattle do you have in all?
0:32:03 > 0:32:08- Johnny said there were 1,000 cattle - when he started working here.
0:32:08 > 0:32:13- We don't have as much space - as we used to have...
0:32:13 > 0:32:15- ..though numbers are growing.
0:32:15 > 0:32:18- At the moment, - we have about 540 cattle.
0:32:23 > 0:32:27- Farming is good - when you have plenty of land.
0:32:27 > 0:32:30- Old practices are still in use.
0:32:30 > 0:32:35- Burning the old heather and grass - on the mountains, for example...
0:32:35 > 0:32:40- ..so that sheep can graze - fresh grass and produce food for us.
0:32:41 > 0:32:43- And hunting, of course.
0:32:43 > 0:32:47- Hunting is still a very important - activity in Scotland.
0:32:50 > 0:32:53- Hunting makes life safer - for the lambs.
0:32:53 > 0:32:55- It's a lovely day.
0:32:55 > 0:32:58- But we move on to another subject.
0:32:59 > 0:33:01- Chickens and eggs.
0:33:03 > 0:33:06- There are 16,000 birds - on either side.
0:33:06 > 0:33:08- A total of 32,000.
0:33:08 > 0:33:12- The hens go outside. - Are they free range?
0:33:12 > 0:33:14- Yes, they're free range.
0:33:14 > 0:33:17- Free range sheds - can't be bigger than this.
0:33:17 > 0:33:22- The hens are free to go out - into the paddock...
0:33:22 > 0:33:25- ..and they lay their eggs - in the shed.
0:33:25 > 0:33:29- There are four rows - where they can lay.
0:33:29 > 0:33:34- You can see the four conveyors - that come out of the shed.
0:33:35 > 0:33:36- The eggs come out automatically.
0:33:36 > 0:33:37- The eggs come out automatically.- - The eggs are gathered at the centre.
0:33:37 > 0:33:38- The eggs are gathered at the centre.
0:33:39 > 0:33:41- That's right - - the packer does that...
0:33:42 > 0:33:44- ..all the eggs from the two sheds.
0:33:44 > 0:33:48- Does sorting and grading the eggs - involve much work?
0:33:48 > 0:33:51- Some of the eggs are very big.
0:33:52 > 0:33:54- That's what they're doing here.
0:33:54 > 0:33:56- Clive's removing broken eggs...
0:33:56 > 0:34:00- ..and eggs that are too big - for normal trays.
0:34:00 > 0:34:04- Those eggs tend to break - on normal trays.
0:34:04 > 0:34:07- He removes second class eggs too.
0:34:07 > 0:34:10- Eggs are graded - before being sent to the shops.
0:34:11 > 0:34:15- How often does a lorry come - to fetch the eggs?
0:34:15 > 0:34:17- Two lorries.
0:34:17 > 0:34:22- The eggs are collected twice a week, - 10 or 11 pallets each time.
0:34:23 > 0:34:27- How many eggs are there - on three pallets?
0:34:27 > 0:34:29- One pallet holds 720 dozen eggs.
0:34:29 > 0:34:29- One pallet holds 720 dozen eggs.- - Good gracious!
0:34:29 > 0:34:30- Good gracious!
0:34:31 > 0:34:32- Quite a lot.
0:34:33 > 0:34:36- Lots of local farms - have an egg business.
0:34:37 > 0:34:40- There are a few. - There's a big demand.
0:34:40 > 0:34:45- Many are changing from battery - production to free range production.
0:34:45 > 0:34:49- That's because battery cages - will be banned from 2012.
0:34:50 > 0:34:53- Old battery sheds aren't suitable - for free range production...
0:34:53 > 0:34:56- ..unless there's land around them.
0:34:57 > 0:35:02- We've come into this business early - so hopefully we'll make more money.
0:35:02 > 0:35:05- Is it a profitable part - of the business?
0:35:06 > 0:35:09- Yes, it's our strongest enterprise - at the moment.
0:35:10 > 0:35:13- We're currently building - another shed.
0:35:13 > 0:35:16- How many people work on the eggs?
0:35:16 > 0:35:21- In this shed, two full-time workers - look after 32,000 hens.
0:35:21 > 0:35:26- We've taken on another man - to take over my role.
0:35:26 > 0:35:31- He'll manage the two sheds - when both are up and running.
0:35:31 > 0:35:34- You no longer manage - the chicken shed.
0:35:34 > 0:35:36- Not since last August.
0:35:37 > 0:35:40- I've handed that responsibility - to him.
0:35:40 > 0:35:41- There's plenty more work for you.
0:35:41 > 0:35:42- There's plenty more work for you.- - Plenty to keep me going.
0:35:42 > 0:35:43- Plenty to keep me going.
0:35:43 > 0:35:43- .
0:35:48 > 0:35:48- 888
0:35:48 > 0:35:50- 888- - 888
0:35:54 > 0:35:58- Trees display lovely colours - at this time of year.
0:35:58 > 0:36:01- It's a wonderful time of year.
0:36:01 > 0:36:03- You watch the seasons progress.
0:36:03 > 0:36:09- At this time of year, you see - the results of the year's work.
0:36:09 > 0:36:11- That's right.
0:36:11 > 0:36:12- Everyone's happy.
0:36:21 > 0:36:23- These are lambs you've bred.
0:36:24 > 0:36:27- Remind me again - what breeds you've used.
0:36:27 > 0:36:28- Romney?
0:36:28 > 0:36:31- These are the Highlander breed.
0:36:31 > 0:36:35- They're a combination of three - breeds - Romney, Texel and Finn.
0:36:35 > 0:36:37- They're a composite breed.
0:36:38 > 0:36:42- The idea is to finish them - solely on grass - no supplements.
0:36:43 > 0:36:46- They're in very great demand - at the moment.
0:36:46 > 0:36:48- They're hardy lambs too.
0:36:48 > 0:36:50- They're hardy lambs too.- - Yes. We're very happy with them.
0:36:50 > 0:36:50- They're hardy lambs too.
0:36:50 > 0:36:52- You can tell by looking at them.
0:36:53 > 0:36:57- Anything that can live without - concentrates or bought food...
0:36:57 > 0:36:59- ..deserves serious consideration.
0:36:59 > 0:37:02- It makes a big difference - to the figures.
0:37:03 > 0:37:04- You deserve credit.
0:37:04 > 0:37:08- You're using and developing breeds - to suit your location.
0:37:08 > 0:37:09- And to suit our market.
0:37:09 > 0:37:11- And to suit our market.- - You'll never adapt a location...
0:37:11 > 0:37:11- You'll never adapt a location...
0:37:11 > 0:37:13- ..to suit the animal.
0:37:14 > 0:37:16- The animal must suit the location.
0:37:19 > 0:37:22- This is a very good place - for lambing, Sion.
0:37:23 > 0:37:26- You bring the sheep - down from the mountain.
0:37:26 > 0:37:28- You've got good, dry fields.
0:37:29 > 0:37:32- We keep the mountain sheep here - for lambing.
0:37:32 > 0:37:36- When we move them - back up the mountain...
0:37:36 > 0:37:40- ..these fields are used - for making silage or hay.
0:37:40 > 0:37:41- These are Blackie lambs.
0:37:42 > 0:37:46- The Blackface breed is the basis - of the mountain flock.
0:37:47 > 0:37:51- The basis of the whole flock really.
0:37:52 > 0:37:54- Are they all male lambs?
0:37:54 > 0:37:58- They're all male lambs. - Most of them are Blackies.
0:37:58 > 0:38:02- We keep most of our sheep - on the mountain.
0:38:02 > 0:38:05- It's nearly the end of October.
0:38:06 > 0:38:08- How many lambs have you sold?
0:38:08 > 0:38:08- How many lambs have you sold?- - We've sold nearly 3,000 lambs.
0:38:08 > 0:38:10- We've sold nearly 3,000 lambs.
0:38:11 > 0:38:12- Have you really?
0:38:13 > 0:38:14- On the hook or in the mart?
0:38:14 > 0:38:17- On the hook or in the mart?- - Mostly on the hook.
0:38:17 > 0:38:20- We send the heaviest lambs - to market.
0:38:21 > 0:38:25- I see a huge building - there in the background.
0:38:25 > 0:38:26- Is it a castle?
0:38:26 > 0:38:27- Is it a castle?- - It used to be a watchtower.
0:38:27 > 0:38:28- It used to be a watchtower.
0:38:29 > 0:38:34- Beacons were lit on towers - on the hilltops in the old days.
0:38:35 > 0:38:37- So it's a historical building.
0:38:38 > 0:38:41- Yes. It dates back - to the 16th century.
0:38:41 > 0:38:43- It's still standing.
0:38:43 > 0:38:48- The walls are being renovated - to preserve it for the future.
0:38:49 > 0:38:51- Will it be roofed over?
0:38:51 > 0:38:51- Will it be roofed over?- - We wanted to roof it...
0:38:51 > 0:38:53- We wanted to roof it...
0:38:53 > 0:38:55- ..to seal the walls.
0:38:55 > 0:39:00- But we can't - - we must leave it as it is.
0:39:03 > 0:39:06- You do a lot of - conservation work too.
0:39:06 > 0:39:12- People don't realise the costs - that are involved in conservation.
0:39:13 > 0:39:15- It costs quite a lot.
0:39:15 > 0:39:19- We're replacing many of our fences - with hedges.
0:39:19 > 0:39:24- We've planted about five miles - of hedges in the last three years.
0:39:24 > 0:39:29- We're doing as much as we can - to improve the environment.
0:39:37 > 0:39:39- Come on, then!
0:39:54 > 0:39:57- What a noise - that black bull is making!
0:39:57 > 0:39:58- Yes.
0:39:59 > 0:40:00- We bred him ourselves.
0:40:01 > 0:40:02- He's a fine bull.
0:40:02 > 0:40:02- He's a fine bull.- - He's alright.
0:40:02 > 0:40:03- He's alright.
0:40:04 > 0:40:07- Don't you keep these calves - for some competition?
0:40:07 > 0:40:12- We're entering them - for a hoof and hook competition.
0:40:12 > 0:40:14- We're feeding them up.
0:40:14 > 0:40:16- The competition is in a year's time.
0:40:17 > 0:40:20- There's always keen competition - from Scotland.
0:40:21 > 0:40:25- The competition's always strong - at Winter Fair in Perth.
0:40:25 > 0:40:27- It's the same in Wales.
0:40:27 > 0:40:31- The Winter Fair is a showpiece - for fat cattle.
0:40:32 > 0:40:33- The public gets to see them.
0:40:33 > 0:40:34- The public gets to see them.- - Yes...
0:40:34 > 0:40:39- ..and our workers get a chance - to show their stock.
0:40:40 > 0:40:44- Animals you've bred yourselves - like that black bull.
0:40:44 > 0:40:46- It means so much more.
0:40:46 > 0:40:46- It means so much more.- - Yes, it does.
0:40:46 > 0:40:47- Yes, it does.
0:40:47 > 0:40:50- Right - let's head for the hills.
0:40:50 > 0:40:54- I must say, I envy you being here.
0:41:10 > 0:41:15- The estate has a lot of land - down in the valley...
0:41:15 > 0:41:19- ..but it owns large tracts - of mountain too.
0:41:19 > 0:41:23- There's no mist on the mountains - today, thank goodness!
0:41:31 > 0:41:35- How many men do you have - working under you?
0:41:35 > 0:41:37- Under my management?
0:41:37 > 0:41:44- I used to have eleven, but with a - new manager in the chicken shed...
0:41:44 > 0:41:46- ..I'm down to nine.
0:41:46 > 0:41:50- There's plenty of work - for them to do.
0:41:50 > 0:41:53- It must be a job keeping up.
0:42:00 > 0:42:01- What a glorious spot!
0:42:02 > 0:42:04- Yes, it's nice up here.
0:42:09 > 0:42:12- Was the wall built specially - to provide shelter?
0:42:13 > 0:42:18- This was built as a 21st birthday - gift for the current Duke's son.
0:42:19 > 0:42:23- It was built by the tenants - and the staff.
0:42:24 > 0:42:27- He can see his home from here.
0:42:28 > 0:42:31- You know where the road - starts climbing down below...
0:42:32 > 0:42:35- ..there was a field full of bales.
0:42:35 > 0:42:36- Is that farm under your management?
0:42:36 > 0:42:38- Is that farm under your management?- - We're taking it over next year.
0:42:38 > 0:42:38- We're taking it over next year.
0:42:39 > 0:42:44- The main reason is because we're - trying to enhance the grouse moors.
0:42:45 > 0:42:48- The present farmer - has been farming that land...
0:42:48 > 0:42:51- ..but we're keen to - encourage heather to grow.
0:42:52 > 0:42:55- We're talking about extending - the grouse moor.
0:42:56 > 0:42:57- That's the aim.
0:42:57 > 0:43:00- We want it to look more like this.
0:43:00 > 0:43:01- We want it to look more like this.- - It look like a nice farm.
0:43:01 > 0:43:02- It look like a nice farm.
0:43:03 > 0:43:05- Yes, it has good potential.
0:43:05 > 0:43:08- You have a lot of land up here.
0:43:09 > 0:43:13- That's our land - - we're looking down on it now.
0:43:13 > 0:43:19- I should think you need very good - hounds to hunt in these mountains.
0:43:19 > 0:43:23- It's a very open space - - there aren't many rocks.
0:43:23 > 0:43:25- Most of it is devoid of rocks.
0:43:25 > 0:43:25- Most of it is devoid of rocks.- - Like everywhere else...
0:43:25 > 0:43:26- Like everywhere else...
0:43:26 > 0:43:30- ..there are set seasons - for grazing sheep up here.
0:43:31 > 0:43:35- Yes, we restrict grazing - in order to preserve the heather.
0:43:36 > 0:43:39- We remove the stock - from this mountain in winter.
0:43:40 > 0:43:44- Grouse and other wildlife are - regarded as important in Scotland.
0:43:44 > 0:43:46- Very important.
0:43:46 > 0:43:48- The family think it's important too.
0:43:49 > 0:43:53- We're trying to put things back - the way the used to be.
0:43:54 > 0:43:58- We're burning heather at the moment - to encourage fresh growth.
0:43:58 > 0:44:02- Sion, I've been thinking - - you're a Montgomeryshire lad...
0:44:02 > 0:44:04- ..how long have you lived here?
0:44:05 > 0:44:09- I've been working on this estate - for nearly four years.
0:44:10 > 0:44:14- I've lived in Scotland - for about eight years.
0:44:14 > 0:44:16- It's quite a change.
0:44:17 > 0:44:22- The landscape may be similar, - but it's a lot bigger than Wales.
0:44:22 > 0:44:26- Yes, and the farms are bigger too, - I suppose.
0:44:26 > 0:44:28- There's more of a challenge.
0:44:28 > 0:44:32- Did you come to Scotland - straight from college?
0:44:32 > 0:44:36- Yes. I spent my first two years - in Inverness.
0:44:36 > 0:44:38- How often do you go home?
0:44:38 > 0:44:40- It's a four-hour journey.
0:44:40 > 0:44:41- It's a four-hour journey.- - About four hours.
0:44:41 > 0:44:41- About four hours.
0:44:41 > 0:44:45- I usually visit - four to six times a year...
0:44:45 > 0:44:48- ..maybe a little more often.
0:44:48 > 0:44:49- Your parents are farmers.
0:44:50 > 0:44:51- You can compare experiences.
0:44:51 > 0:44:51- You can compare experiences.- - We're always comparing things.
0:44:51 > 0:44:54- We're always comparing things.
0:44:56 > 0:45:00- Do you have any interests - apart from farming and work?
0:45:00 > 0:45:03- I have plenty of interests.
0:45:03 > 0:45:07- I play hockey every Monday evening - during the season.
0:45:07 > 0:45:11- I train and I also play - a game occasionally.
0:45:11 > 0:45:14- I like watching rugby and football.
0:45:14 > 0:45:16- I also enjoy skiing holidays.
0:45:16 > 0:45:21- I like to go away on holiday - instead of staying here.
0:45:54 > 0:45:55- There's heather burning everywhere.
0:45:55 > 0:45:58- They're trying to sort out - the heather.
0:45:59 > 0:46:01- Do gamekeepers manage that?
0:46:01 > 0:46:02- Yes, three of them.
0:46:03 > 0:46:06- This is your mountain land.
0:46:06 > 0:46:08- Yes, our mountain land.
0:46:09 > 0:46:10- How many acres?
0:46:10 > 0:46:13- About 3,000 acres in this area.
0:46:13 > 0:46:17- Gathering the sheep - must be a difficult job.
0:46:17 > 0:46:23- We usually do one lot at a time - when we're marking or shearing.
0:46:23 > 0:46:25- One mountain at a time.
0:46:25 > 0:46:30- In Wales, you can't graze sheep on - mountains between October and May.
0:46:31 > 0:46:34- That doesn't apply to Scotland, - does it?
0:46:34 > 0:46:35- No.
0:46:36 > 0:46:38- We have lower stocking rates.
0:46:39 > 0:46:43- Our aim is to encourage - heather to grow.
0:46:44 > 0:46:48- The sheep are moved - for lambing in spring.
0:46:48 > 0:46:52- Farmers in Wales complain about - moving sheep in early October.
0:46:52 > 0:46:55- Lambing means twice the numbers...
0:46:55 > 0:46:59- ..and there's no food for them all - in spring.
0:46:59 > 0:47:00- It's a problem.
0:47:01 > 0:47:04- We like to take them back - to the mountain.
0:47:05 > 0:47:09- Sheep with single lambs - go back to the mountain.
0:47:09 > 0:47:14- If a sheep can't cope with one lamb, - she's not worth keeping.
0:47:15 > 0:47:18- Everything revolves - around the mountain.
0:47:18 > 0:47:22- Sheep must produce one lamb - on the mountain...
0:47:22 > 0:47:27- ..and cross-bred sheep - must be the same as their mothers.
0:47:27 > 0:47:32- They produce the numbers, the type - of lamb we want for the market.
0:47:33 > 0:47:36- This is where the flock - is established.
0:47:37 > 0:47:41- Ideally, every farm - should have mountain land.
0:47:43 > 0:47:44- Ideally, yes.
0:47:44 > 0:47:46- But that's not possible.
0:47:46 > 0:47:49- But what a place! What views!
0:47:49 > 0:47:50- It's magnificent.
0:47:50 > 0:47:50- It's magnificent.- - That's why I like this area.
0:47:50 > 0:47:53- That's why I like this area.
0:47:53 > 0:47:55- How many gamekeepers are there?
0:47:55 > 0:47:59- Three keepers look after the grouse - on the mountain...
0:47:59 > 0:48:03- ..and four other keepers - look after the pheasants.
0:48:03 > 0:48:06- They're in charge - of burning the heather.
0:48:06 > 0:48:08- It's good weather for it.
0:48:10 > 0:48:15- I've read a lot about the Buccleuch - Estate in the Scottish Farmer.
0:48:16 > 0:48:19- It's a privilege - and an unforgettable experience...
0:48:19 > 0:48:21- ..to actually be here.
0:48:21 > 0:48:23- Now you know where we are.
0:48:52 > 0:48:55- S4C subtitles by TROSOL Cyf.
0:48:55 > 0:48:57- .