0:00:00 > 0:00:00- Subtitles
0:00:00 > 0:00:02- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:00:18 > 0:00:23- I'm visiting Rhydonnen Isaf Farm, - Rhewl, Llangollen.
0:00:24 > 0:00:28- It's the home of Eryl and Trefor - Lloyd Jones and the boys.
0:00:28 > 0:00:33- The spot where I'm standing - is about 1,000 feet above sea level.
0:00:33 > 0:00:38- I'm surrounded by Welsh Mountain - sheep and cross-bred lambs.
0:00:39 > 0:00:43- The farm is fairly self-sufficient, - with land in the valley, too.
0:00:44 > 0:00:46- Let's go and look for the lads.
0:00:49 > 0:00:57- THE RHYDONNEN FAMILY
0:01:01 > 0:01:05- We'll be meeting Trefor Jones - and his brother, Eryl.
0:01:05 > 0:01:10- Many generations of their family - have farmed at Rhydonnen.
0:01:10 > 0:01:13- They stick - to traditional farming methods.
0:01:13 > 0:01:18- After a long winter, sheep and lambs - return to the mountain...
0:01:18 > 0:01:20- ..bringing it to life.
0:01:21 > 0:01:26- Dairy cows are getting used - to a new milking parlour.
0:01:26 > 0:01:31- Another year of work doesn't - trouble the farm's old machines.
0:01:47 > 0:01:50- April 2016
0:01:50 > 0:01:55- Having spent some time working at - Llysfasi agricultural college...
0:01:55 > 0:01:59- ..Trefor has now joined his brother, - Eryl, back at the farm.
0:02:00 > 0:02:03- Trefor's sons, Iwan and Alun, - also work on the farm.
0:02:08 > 0:02:11- Was this a part - of the original farm?
0:02:11 > 0:02:16- Yes - it's on the boundary between - Cefn Coed Farm and Rhydonnen.
0:02:17 > 0:02:21- In the mid '70s, a decision was made - to fence the common...
0:02:22 > 0:02:24- ..to facilitate sheep farming.
0:02:24 > 0:02:30- Everyone lost the common, of course, - but it was a matter of reclaiming.
0:02:31 > 0:02:33- It appears to be very healthy land.
0:02:33 > 0:02:35- I'm sure it has its seasons.
0:02:35 > 0:02:39- It used to be covered - in gorse and bracken.
0:02:39 > 0:02:41- You've improved the soil.
0:02:42 > 0:02:43- Yes.
0:02:43 > 0:02:47- How long has it been - a part of the farm?
0:02:47 > 0:02:51- This land was bought - in the early '80s.
0:02:51 > 0:02:55- You also have plenty of land - down in the valley.
0:02:55 > 0:02:57- It's a good contrast.
0:02:57 > 0:03:01- Yes, but we try to make the most - of these uplands.
0:03:01 > 0:03:05- Animals graze up here - until late June or July...
0:03:05 > 0:03:07- ..if the weather remains dry.
0:03:07 > 0:03:10- It also helps - with feeding stock in winter.
0:03:11 > 0:03:14- It's mid April, - and the lambs are looking strong.
0:03:14 > 0:03:16- They have plenty of grazing.
0:03:16 > 0:03:18- They have plenty of grazing.- - Lambing begins in early March.
0:03:19 > 0:03:23- The lambs are still quite young - but they're growing well.
0:03:24 > 0:03:26- Does lambing take place indoors?
0:03:26 > 0:03:31- All the sheep are brought inside, - apart from a few late lambers.
0:03:31 > 0:03:34- The sheep are brought inside - in early January.
0:03:35 > 0:03:37- They're all brought inside.
0:03:49 > 0:03:53- Located halfway between the farm - and the uplands...
0:03:53 > 0:03:56- ..are pens for managing the sheep.
0:03:56 > 0:04:00- Today, Eryl - Trefor's brother - - and his nephew, Iwan...
0:04:00 > 0:04:03- ..are dosing and marking the sheep.
0:04:22 > 0:04:26- Female lambs to the right - and male lambs to the left...
0:04:26 > 0:04:27- ..as you can see.
0:04:28 > 0:04:33- We use different colours - blue - for male lambs and red for females.
0:04:35 > 0:04:36- We all have our own systems.
0:04:36 > 0:04:37- We all have our own systems.- - That's true enough.
0:04:40 > 0:04:41- We haven't started shearing.
0:04:41 > 0:04:43- We haven't started shearing.- - I noticed.
0:04:44 > 0:04:47- A job for a spare five minutes!
0:04:47 > 0:04:48- It's too cold today.
0:04:48 > 0:04:50- It's too cold today.
0:04:52 > 0:04:53- Do you castrate the males?
0:04:53 > 0:04:55- Do you castrate the males?- - No.
0:04:55 > 0:04:57- We sell most of them as fatstock.
0:04:58 > 0:05:01- That's what we've done this year.
0:05:01 > 0:05:05- But if the weather is too dry, - we sell some of them as stores.
0:05:05 > 0:05:07- We can't keep them all.
0:05:07 > 0:05:11- The market for stores - has been favourable.
0:05:11 > 0:05:12- Yes, it has.
0:05:12 > 0:05:15- Yes, it has.- - If your lambs are the right shape.
0:05:17 > 0:05:21- There have been sheep pens here - since the late '30s.
0:05:21 > 0:05:23- Since my grandfather's day.
0:05:24 > 0:05:28- We've rebuilt the old pens - and laid concrete, of course.
0:05:30 > 0:05:32- Do you get lots of twins?
0:05:32 > 0:05:34- Yes.
0:05:34 > 0:05:37- We have over 450 twins.
0:05:37 > 0:05:39- That's a lot of twins.
0:05:39 > 0:05:41- About 30 ewes had triplets...
0:05:42 > 0:05:46- ..but it's not a desirable trait - in Welsh Mountain sheep.
0:05:46 > 0:05:49- We put them all - through the dipping tub.
0:05:50 > 0:05:52- We should all return to dipping.
0:05:52 > 0:05:54- Very few do so.
0:05:54 > 0:05:58- Biting lice can cause - terrible health problems.
0:05:59 > 0:06:01- It's a cruel condition.
0:06:01 > 0:06:02- It's a cruel condition.- - So is sheep scab.
0:06:03 > 0:06:08- I'm fully aware that people - don't eat lambs' heads...
0:06:08 > 0:06:11- ..but I like to see animals - with pretty heads.
0:06:12 > 0:06:15- It doesn't matter - what kind of animal it is.
0:06:15 > 0:06:18- They end up in the bin, though.
0:06:18 > 0:06:20- Yes, they end up in the bin.
0:06:20 > 0:06:25- Iwan must have a pretty head - - he's getting married in August!
0:06:25 > 0:06:26- Well done!
0:06:27 > 0:06:28- At the end of August.
0:06:32 > 0:06:36- Rhydonnen Farm - isn't completely self-sufficient...
0:06:37 > 0:06:40- ..but they make the most - of natural resources.
0:06:42 > 0:06:46- The farm's woodlands provide - heating fuel throughout the year.
0:07:15 > 0:07:17- This is very modern, Trefor.
0:07:17 > 0:07:19- This is very modern, Trefor.- - Yes, it is.
0:07:19 > 0:07:22- This is a good place to stand - when it's cold.
0:07:22 > 0:07:27- Apart from heating the house, - what else does it heat?
0:07:27 > 0:07:31- The dairy and the parlour - - there's a heater in the parlour.
0:07:32 > 0:07:35- It provides plenty of hot water too.
0:07:35 > 0:07:39- More than we used previously, - heated by electricity.
0:07:39 > 0:07:43- We can use more hot water, - and things work better.
0:07:43 > 0:07:47- There's nothing worse - than a freezing dairy.
0:07:47 > 0:07:49- No.
0:07:49 > 0:07:51- Then again, you've...
0:07:52 > 0:07:54- You have plenty of wood.
0:07:55 > 0:07:56- That's right.
0:07:56 > 0:07:58- Must you dry the wood?
0:07:58 > 0:08:00- Must you dry the wood?- - It can cope with damper wood.
0:08:02 > 0:08:04- But it works best with dry wood.
0:08:04 > 0:08:08- Talking about wood - - damp old logs...
0:08:08 > 0:08:10- ..dripping with moisture.
0:08:10 > 0:08:12- Doesn't it block up the system?
0:08:12 > 0:08:14- Doesn't it block up the system?- - It just produces white steam.
0:08:15 > 0:08:20- But more heat goes into drying - the wood rather than heating water.
0:08:21 > 0:08:26- That's if the logs are very fresh, - or it's sappy wood such as larch.
0:08:27 > 0:08:31- Very fresh wood contains too much - sap, which produces a lot of tar.
0:08:31 > 0:08:35- Is your bedroom warm - when you wake up?
0:08:35 > 0:08:37- You get up at 4.00am.
0:08:37 > 0:08:41- We've used this burner - for nearly three years...
0:08:41 > 0:08:46- ..and the fire has rarely gone out, - apart from when it's been serviced.
0:08:46 > 0:08:50- We carry out maintenance - every two or three weeks...
0:08:50 > 0:08:53- ..and there's no need - to put the fire out.
0:08:53 > 0:08:56- We remove the ashes every ten days.
0:09:00 > 0:09:04- Rhydonnen Farm has land - on the banks of the River Dee.
0:09:04 > 0:09:08- Trefor is making the most - of the mild weather.
0:09:09 > 0:09:14- May 2016
0:09:26 > 0:09:27- Well, Trefor.
0:09:27 > 0:09:29- Well, Trefor.- - How are you?
0:09:29 > 0:09:32- Spring has arrived - and you're ploughing.
0:09:32 > 0:09:33- Yes, indeed.
0:09:33 > 0:09:36- Yes, indeed.- - What has happened to old traditions?
0:09:36 > 0:09:39- Most people plough - in summer or autumn.
0:09:39 > 0:09:43- But it's nice to see ploughing - being done in spring.
0:09:43 > 0:09:45- That's the time to bury dampness.
0:09:46 > 0:09:49- This is good, red soil.
0:09:50 > 0:09:51- Yes, and it's quite light.
0:09:51 > 0:09:54- Yes, and it's quite light.- - You're not ploughing too deeply.
0:09:54 > 0:09:58- That's right, no more - than about five inches deep.
0:09:59 > 0:10:01- Four inches, in some places.
0:10:02 > 0:10:05- Will you be sowing barley?
0:10:05 > 0:10:08- Yes, with grass seed - sown beneath it.
0:10:08 > 0:10:12- That's why our ploughing - is done later.
0:10:12 > 0:10:16- I would have ploughed in March - if I wasn't undersowing.
0:10:16 > 0:10:18- It's to avoid frosts.
0:10:18 > 0:10:22- We sow grass seed about three weeks - after the main crop.
0:10:23 > 0:10:25- We wait for warmer weather.
0:10:25 > 0:10:29- Grass seed is sown - before the main crop grows too tall.
0:10:29 > 0:10:32- That works better with fine seed.
0:10:32 > 0:10:33- I use a drill.
0:10:33 > 0:10:38- We still use a drill that Dad - bought, brand-new, after the war.
0:10:39 > 0:10:43- It's just over 70 years old - and still running like clockwork.
0:10:44 > 0:10:46- It has two large iron wheels.
0:10:47 > 0:10:51- It's been used all around the area, - over the years, sowing seeds.
0:10:52 > 0:10:53- Well done!
0:10:53 > 0:10:56- This ploughing won't take long.
0:10:56 > 0:10:58- No, I'm not creating furrows.
0:10:58 > 0:11:02- This plough is a little wider, - which saves time.
0:11:02 > 0:11:03- This plough has five blades.
0:11:03 > 0:11:05- This plough has five blades.- - Very good.
0:11:05 > 0:11:07- I'll let you get on with it.
0:11:07 > 0:11:10- Ploughing is very enjoyable.
0:11:10 > 0:11:14- Yes, and you know - you have a new season ahead of you.
0:11:15 > 0:11:20- In a few months' time, this field - will be transformed with new growth.
0:11:21 > 0:11:26- There's nothing better than farming - - when the weather is right.
0:11:26 > 0:11:26- .
0:11:30 > 0:11:30- Subtitles
0:11:30 > 0:11:32- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:11:37 > 0:11:40- Rhydonnen Farm - has lots of fertile land...
0:11:40 > 0:11:43- ..and it has also been blessed - with woodlands.
0:11:44 > 0:11:48- Wood is used regularly on the farm - for fencing and so on.
0:11:48 > 0:11:51- Felling a tree is the first step.
0:11:52 > 0:11:54- That's a substantial tree.
0:11:54 > 0:11:57- It's close to the house, - which is convenient.
0:11:58 > 0:12:01- We'll cut it up - - it'll provide plenty of rails.
0:12:01 > 0:12:04- Who planted it - - members of your family?
0:12:05 > 0:12:07- No, not my family.
0:12:07 > 0:12:10- The trees - had already been planted...
0:12:10 > 0:12:13- ..when the land was bought - in the '80s.
0:12:42 > 0:12:44- What will you do next?
0:12:45 > 0:12:47- Will you finish trimming it?
0:12:47 > 0:12:50- It'll be cut into 12-foot lengths...
0:12:50 > 0:12:53- ..which we'll drag out - with a tractor.
0:12:56 > 0:12:58- You have lots of equipment.
0:12:59 > 0:13:01- I've been looking at the tractor.
0:13:01 > 0:13:04- We've had the winch - for about ten years.
0:13:06 > 0:13:07- It's used to drag trees out.
0:13:08 > 0:13:11- We also use it for tidying up - around the farm.
0:13:11 > 0:13:16- You do most things yourselves - - you don't use contractors.
0:13:16 > 0:13:18- We use contractors for scanning.
0:13:18 > 0:13:20- We don't do our own scanning!
0:13:21 > 0:13:23- That's the only thing, I think.
0:13:23 > 0:13:26- We've always done our own shearing.
0:13:26 > 0:13:29- The boys have been raised - to do this work.
0:13:29 > 0:13:31- Yes, and they know what to do.
0:13:31 > 0:13:32- They've learned how to do it.
0:13:32 > 0:13:34- They've learned how to do it.- - Yes, from people who know.
0:13:34 > 0:13:39- Not from people who tell you what - to do but can't do it themselves!
0:13:39 > 0:13:42- There are too many people like that.
0:13:42 > 0:13:44- That's true enough.
0:13:48 > 0:13:52- There isn't much work - for contractors at Rhydonnen.
0:13:52 > 0:13:55- After dragging the tree - out of the forest...
0:13:55 > 0:13:59- ..it's taken to the huge sawmill, - operated by Iwan.
0:14:17 > 0:14:19- Iwan, what an amazing machine!
0:14:19 > 0:14:21- Yes, it is.
0:14:22 > 0:14:25- It's fairly new, is it?
0:14:25 > 0:14:27- It's two years old.
0:14:28 > 0:14:30- You make your own poles, do you?
0:14:31 > 0:14:33- Yes, using larch wood.
0:14:33 > 0:14:34- Do you preserve some of them?
0:14:34 > 0:14:36- Do you preserve some of them?- - Yes, most of them.
0:14:36 > 0:14:38- Apart from oak wood.
0:14:38 > 0:14:41- You have valleys - with plenty of trees, do you?
0:14:42 > 0:14:47- We have lots of uses for wood, - so we decided to buy a machine.
0:14:48 > 0:14:51- Is there any demand for beams - for houses?
0:14:51 > 0:14:52- Yes, sometimes.
0:14:52 > 0:14:56- Someone always wants something - to be cut up.
0:14:56 > 0:14:57- You don't treat oak?
0:14:58 > 0:15:00- No, it's hard enough as it is.
0:15:01 > 0:15:04- What about maintaining - the blade's sharpness?
0:15:04 > 0:15:09- You can cut about 150 poles - before the blade needs sharpening.
0:15:10 > 0:15:12- It depends how hard the timber is.
0:15:12 > 0:15:16- One thing that's useful - about harvesting your own timber...
0:15:17 > 0:15:19- ..it doesn't contain any nails.
0:15:20 > 0:15:21- Nails can be dangerous.
0:15:22 > 0:15:24- Yes, the blade won't cut.
0:15:25 > 0:15:29- Can you tell me - how much a blade costs?
0:15:29 > 0:15:31- About 31.
0:15:31 > 0:15:32- Something like that.
0:15:33 > 0:15:34- They're not expensive.
0:15:34 > 0:15:36- They're not expensive.- - That's not bad.
0:15:36 > 0:15:38- You save more than that on posts.
0:15:39 > 0:15:42- Is that a sheep trough?
0:15:42 > 0:15:45- You don't often see wooden troughs, - these days.
0:15:46 > 0:15:48- It's quite useful.
0:15:48 > 0:15:51- There are pieces - hanging off the panels.
0:15:51 > 0:15:55- It's good that you have an interest - in such work.
0:15:55 > 0:15:58- Trees have to brought here - from the valley.
0:15:58 > 0:16:00- It involves a lot of work.
0:16:00 > 0:16:02- That's right, it's not easy.
0:16:03 > 0:16:05- But you save a lot of money.
0:16:05 > 0:16:09- It takes just one man - to operate the sawmill, not two.
0:16:12 > 0:16:16- What do you do - with the smaller pieces of wood?
0:16:16 > 0:16:20- We cut them up and put them - in the biomass burner.
0:16:20 > 0:16:23- We fetch them as we need them - and cut them up.
0:16:24 > 0:16:25- There's no waste at all.
0:16:34 > 0:16:35- TRAIN WHISTLE
0:16:43 > 0:16:44- TRAIN WHISTLE
0:16:49 > 0:16:53- Here's another important task - at Rhydonnen...
0:16:53 > 0:16:55- ..maintaining fences.
0:16:56 > 0:16:58- After processing the wood...
0:16:58 > 0:17:02- ..Iwan and his brother Alun - have plenty of fencing to do.
0:17:09 > 0:17:10- A little more, I think.
0:17:11 > 0:17:13- It looks good from behind!
0:17:13 > 0:17:14- Yes.
0:17:15 > 0:17:17- Alun, you arrived home safely.
0:17:17 > 0:17:19- What time did you come home?
0:17:19 > 0:17:21- About 8.30.
0:17:21 > 0:17:23- Where had you been - France?
0:17:23 > 0:17:26- Yes, I'd been to France - for the weekend.
0:17:27 > 0:17:30- Now, you're making sure - the sheep can't go wandering.
0:17:31 > 0:17:33- You're very fortunate.
0:17:34 > 0:17:36- You have all the stuff for the job.
0:17:36 > 0:17:40- A chainsaw, and it's good - to have plenty of wood.
0:17:40 > 0:17:42- You're using your own larch posts.
0:17:42 > 0:17:45- Have you treated the wood?
0:17:45 > 0:17:48- The poles are larch - and rails are Douglas fir.
0:17:49 > 0:17:54- It's a tradition that has been - followed for years on the farm.
0:17:54 > 0:17:56- We maintain the hedgerows too.
0:17:57 > 0:17:58- We use rails to keep them neat.
0:17:58 > 0:18:00- We use rails to keep them neat.- - Leaves are starting to grow.
0:18:00 > 0:18:02- You're an experienced shearer, too.
0:18:03 > 0:18:04- I do my best.
0:18:04 > 0:18:06- Do you carry out contract work?
0:18:06 > 0:18:08- Do you carry out contract work?- - Yes.
0:18:08 > 0:18:12- In early May, I'll be going - to London for two weeks.
0:18:13 > 0:18:16- Then I'll be spending - a month in Brecon.
0:18:16 > 0:18:19- I'll also be working - in the Pembroke area.
0:18:19 > 0:18:21- After that, I'll come back home.
0:18:21 > 0:18:23- After that, I'll come back home.- - Have you visited New Zealand?
0:18:23 > 0:18:24- Yes, four years ago.
0:18:26 > 0:18:31- It's great to be able to work on a - farm where your forefathers worked.
0:18:32 > 0:18:33- Yes.
0:18:34 > 0:18:38- You can probably remember - running and playing in these fields.
0:18:39 > 0:18:41- These days, you have to work!
0:19:33 > 0:19:35- Here's another lot of happy sheep.
0:19:35 > 0:19:38- Lots of these lambs are twins.
0:19:38 > 0:19:40- These are a little stronger.
0:19:40 > 0:19:42- This is good land.
0:19:42 > 0:19:45- All along the bottom of the valley.
0:19:45 > 0:19:47- All along the bottom of the valley.- - We bought this land three years ago.
0:19:48 > 0:19:50- We've put fences along the bottom.
0:19:51 > 0:19:53- All the way along.
0:19:53 > 0:19:55- It's healthy land for sheep.
0:19:55 > 0:19:57- Will you be making silage?
0:19:58 > 0:20:00- Yes, we'll make silage.
0:20:00 > 0:20:04- Last year, we grew corn, - and re-seeded after harvesting.
0:20:04 > 0:20:06- The grass has grown well.
0:20:06 > 0:20:10- How many sheep - do you sell every year?
0:20:10 > 0:20:12- Old ewes, you mean?
0:20:12 > 0:20:14- We sell about 250 every year.
0:20:14 > 0:20:18- We try to sell them early, - in mid June.
0:20:18 > 0:20:20- That's when we wean the first lambs.
0:20:21 > 0:20:24- It's a means - of cutting down on stock.
0:20:25 > 0:20:28- Yes, at a time - when grass is growing.
0:20:29 > 0:20:33- Lambs are taken up the mountain - - they need lots of room.
0:20:33 > 0:20:35- These lambs are all twins.
0:20:35 > 0:20:38- They're very fine lambs.
0:20:38 > 0:20:41- Of course, they have good grazing.
0:20:41 > 0:20:44- They'll be taken up the mountain - in a week's time.
0:20:45 > 0:20:47- Some are up there already.
0:20:47 > 0:20:50- These fields will be empty - in a week's time.
0:20:50 > 0:20:51- Will you apply fertilizer?
0:20:51 > 0:20:53- Will you apply fertilizer?- - We'll apply fertilizer.
0:20:54 > 0:20:56- Then, the field is rolled.
0:20:56 > 0:20:57- Do you use lime?
0:20:57 > 0:20:58- Do you use lime?- - Use lime?
0:20:59 > 0:21:02- We spread lime - on all the upland areas last year.
0:21:02 > 0:21:03- We used two tonnes of lime.
0:21:03 > 0:21:05- We used two tonnes of lime.- - White lime?
0:21:06 > 0:21:10- I don't think enough use - is made of lime.
0:21:10 > 0:21:12- You're perfectly correct.
0:21:12 > 0:21:16- Have you taken part - in Tir Gofal or Glastir schemes?
0:21:17 > 0:21:20- No - we want the freedom - to do what we think is best.
0:21:20 > 0:21:22- We know how we want to farm.
0:21:22 > 0:21:26- Generations of your family - have farmed this land.
0:21:27 > 0:21:28- Yes, we know how to do it.
0:21:28 > 0:21:29- Yes, we know how to do it.- - There's no need to change.
0:21:30 > 0:21:32- Not unless it's necessary.
0:21:44 > 0:21:46- Today is an unusually busy day.
0:21:47 > 0:21:49- Heifers are being turned out.
0:21:50 > 0:21:52- The heifers can't wait!
0:21:56 > 0:21:59- They're going outside - for the first time.
0:21:59 > 0:22:03- Yes, though a few spent - some time outside last year.
0:22:04 > 0:22:06- The rest of them haven't.
0:22:06 > 0:22:10- There are Friesian heifers - and five young bullocks.
0:22:10 > 0:22:12- Is it cheap grazing land?
0:22:13 > 0:22:15- Yes, where we keep sheep in winter.
0:22:15 > 0:22:17- Yearlings spend winter there.
0:22:18 > 0:22:21- You breed enough dairy heifers - for your own needs.
0:22:21 > 0:22:23- What about your Lims?
0:22:23 > 0:22:25- We breed most them, too.
0:22:25 > 0:22:30- Older cows, that might not make the - best prices, are kept for breeding.
0:22:30 > 0:22:35- If they've gone over 42 days, - we don't test them.
0:22:35 > 0:22:37- We keep them for breeding.
0:22:52 > 0:22:56- Silage has enabled farmers - to have more fodder available.
0:22:57 > 0:22:59- Yes, everyone has more fodder.
0:22:59 > 0:23:02- More fodder means - you have less to worry about.
0:23:03 > 0:23:05- You can keep cattle inside.
0:23:06 > 0:23:09- The calves will have grown - by late August.
0:23:09 > 0:23:11- The others are in-calf heifers.
0:23:12 > 0:23:14- Yes, the strongest heifers.
0:23:14 > 0:23:18- We have 21 heifers in calf, - due to calve from August onwards.
0:23:18 > 0:23:22- You've changed back - from Holsteins to Friesians.
0:23:22 > 0:23:24- Yes, five or six years ago.
0:23:24 > 0:23:27- They produce better beef calves.
0:23:27 > 0:23:28- They're a better shape.
0:23:30 > 0:23:34- The age of peak milk production - has passed.
0:23:34 > 0:23:38- There's more emphasis on fodder - and reducing costs.
0:23:38 > 0:23:42- If no-one wants - what you have to sell...
0:23:42 > 0:23:45- ..or if you have too much - of what people want...
0:23:45 > 0:23:47- ..there's no easy way out.
0:23:48 > 0:23:51- No - excess produce - drives prices down.
0:23:51 > 0:23:55- The dairy industry - is struggling with overproduction.
0:23:56 > 0:23:58- We were talking about this recently.
0:23:59 > 0:24:03- There used to be 34 dairy farms - between Corwen and Llangollen...
0:24:03 > 0:24:05- ..and only four remain.
0:24:05 > 0:24:07- They're all in this area.
0:24:09 > 0:24:13- The nearest dairy farm, - after this one, is in Gwyddelwern.
0:24:13 > 0:24:17- The dairy industry has been - transformed over the years.
0:24:18 > 0:24:21- But it remains an important element - at Rhydonnen...
0:24:22 > 0:24:25- ..and there's plenty of grass - to feed the cows.
0:24:26 > 0:24:28- This field looks fresh.
0:24:28 > 0:24:31- It was re-seeded in September - - in late September.
0:24:32 > 0:24:33- It has grown well.
0:24:33 > 0:24:37- We left it alone, - apart from grazing a few lambs...
0:24:37 > 0:24:39- ..to crop it as it grew.
0:24:39 > 0:24:40- Is this for cattle?
0:24:41 > 0:24:42- For dairy cattle.
0:24:42 > 0:24:45- It was too wet - to bring them in last week.
0:24:45 > 0:24:48- What's your grazing system?
0:24:48 > 0:24:50- What's your grazing system?- - Strip grazing.
0:24:50 > 0:24:51- We use a fence.
0:24:52 > 0:24:53- An old-fashioned method.
0:24:53 > 0:24:56- An old-fashioned method.- - It suits the size of the fields.
0:24:56 > 0:24:58- We're back, less then a month later.
0:24:58 > 0:25:01- We're back, less then a month later.- - There are hedges around each field.
0:25:01 > 0:25:04- It's the same throughout the farm.
0:25:06 > 0:25:10- We've always made an effort - to take care of hedges.
0:25:10 > 0:25:14- They were hand-laid, originally, - though not in recent years.
0:25:14 > 0:25:17- We don't have time to lay hedges!
0:25:17 > 0:25:18- And post-and-rail fencing.
0:25:18 > 0:25:20- And post-and-rail fencing.- - No netting.
0:25:20 > 0:25:24- We don't use netting down here, - unless it stands alone.
0:25:24 > 0:25:27- If there isn't a hedge, - we'll use netting.
0:25:27 > 0:25:31- The aim is to keep sheep - away from hedges...
0:25:31 > 0:25:33- ..to prevent any damage.
0:25:33 > 0:25:36- We also aim to move the sheep - in spring...
0:25:36 > 0:25:40- ..before the hedges - start growing again in earnest...
0:25:40 > 0:25:43- ..to prevent sheep - from killing new growth.
0:25:44 > 0:25:46- That's certainly not a new problem.
0:25:46 > 0:25:50- Cows are fine, - but sheep can kill hedges.
0:25:52 > 0:25:55- You grow all your silage - along the valley floor.
0:25:55 > 0:25:57- Do you make two cuts?
0:25:57 > 0:25:58- Yes.
0:25:59 > 0:26:01- Some fields yield three cuts.
0:26:02 > 0:26:06- We rent another 50 acres of land - next door.
0:26:06 > 0:26:10- The land is used for making hay - or silage or for growing corn.
0:26:11 > 0:26:12- We also grow barley.
0:26:13 > 0:26:15- Combining?
0:26:15 > 0:26:19- Old agricultural methods...
0:26:19 > 0:26:22- ..are in evidence - throughout the farm...
0:26:23 > 0:26:26- ..whether you're dealing - with sheep...
0:26:26 > 0:26:28- ..or strip grazing with cattle.
0:26:28 > 0:26:30- You have plenty of trees, too.
0:26:31 > 0:26:34- You grow barley - to provide fodder for cattle.
0:26:34 > 0:26:36- For cattle, not sheep.
0:26:36 > 0:26:38- It's used for feeding calves.
0:26:38 > 0:26:41- The calves feed from a creep, - initially...
0:26:42 > 0:26:44- ..before moving on to barley.
0:26:44 > 0:26:45- TRAIN WHISTLE
0:26:48 > 0:26:52- If I may say so, Trefor, you're - fortunate to have so many staff...
0:26:52 > 0:26:55- ..your sons, your brother and you.
0:26:55 > 0:27:00- You get along well, you've been - farming here for a long time.
0:27:00 > 0:27:02- Yes, we know the land well.
0:27:03 > 0:27:05- You seem to enjoy every moment.
0:27:06 > 0:27:09- Yes, from the time I get up, - early in the morning.
0:27:09 > 0:27:11- We have plenty to do every day.
0:27:19 > 0:27:21- The months fly by.
0:27:22 > 0:27:26- You don't often see - such vintage machinery at work.
0:27:51 > 0:27:53- This is rather old, Eryl.
0:27:53 > 0:27:55- It's almost as old as you are, Dai!
0:27:55 > 0:27:57- It's almost as old as you are, Dai!- - What year?
0:27:57 > 0:27:58- I think it was 1943.
0:27:58 > 0:28:00- I think it was 1943.- - Exactly right!
0:28:00 > 0:28:01- Honest to God!
0:28:01 > 0:28:04- I've used one of these - dozens of times.
0:28:05 > 0:28:07- Does it still work perfectly?
0:28:07 > 0:28:09- Yes, and it's been used a lot.
0:28:09 > 0:28:13- Years ago, my father - would take it around other farms...
0:28:15 > 0:28:17- ..neighbouring farms.
0:28:17 > 0:28:19- It brings back sweet memories!
0:28:19 > 0:28:20- Spring barley.
0:28:20 > 0:28:22- Spring barley.- - The seed is dressed, too.
0:28:22 > 0:28:23- Yes.
0:28:24 > 0:28:27- Will it sow anything - apart from barley?
0:28:27 > 0:28:31- I've used it to sow oats - - you can see number three and four.
0:28:31 > 0:28:34- Someone has to stand on the back.
0:28:34 > 0:28:35- That's rather old-fashioned, too.
0:28:35 > 0:28:37- That's rather old-fashioned, too.- - It doesn't matter, if it works!
0:28:38 > 0:28:43- Some experts will tell you that two - men are needed, but it works for us.
0:28:43 > 0:28:44- That's right.
0:28:45 > 0:28:48- It can measure every acre you cover.
0:28:48 > 0:28:51- If the driver does his job properly.
0:28:52 > 0:28:54- Fair play, he's driving well.
0:28:54 > 0:28:56- Fair play, he's driving well.- - He's not bad.
0:28:56 > 0:28:59- I feel privileged to have seen this.
0:28:59 > 0:29:01- You've seen it in action.
0:29:01 > 0:29:02- Is there a little more to do?
0:29:02 > 0:29:04- Is there a little more to do?- - Yes, a little more to do.
0:29:06 > 0:29:07- Good gracious!
0:29:08 > 0:29:10- Hold on tight.
0:29:11 > 0:29:12- Here we go.
0:29:12 > 0:29:13- Here we go.- - Excellent!
0:29:14 > 0:29:15- The discs look good.
0:29:15 > 0:29:17- The discs are fine.
0:29:20 > 0:29:24- It wasn't easy to get hold of it, - during the war.
0:29:25 > 0:29:30- Other farms had to sow crops - as well, to make it worthwhile.
0:29:31 > 0:29:34- It's great to be here - this afternoon.
0:29:34 > 0:29:36- We heard a cuckoo just before lunch.
0:29:37 > 0:29:40- Now, I'm riding a drill - that's as old as I am!
0:29:40 > 0:29:41- Excellent!
0:29:41 > 0:29:43- Excellent!- - I think it cost 110.
0:29:44 > 0:29:45- Really?
0:29:45 > 0:29:47- My mother paid nothing for me!
0:29:56 > 0:29:56- .
0:30:00 > 0:30:00- Subtitles
0:30:00 > 0:30:02- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:30:07 > 0:30:11- It's hot June weather - at Rhydonnen near Llangollen.
0:30:12 > 0:30:15- Along the valley floor, - the hay harvest has begun.
0:30:18 > 0:30:22- June 2016
0:30:23 > 0:30:28- It's been many years since I enjoyed - a cup of tea in a field...
0:30:28 > 0:30:29- ..during haymaking.
0:30:30 > 0:30:32- What could be more pleasant?
0:30:32 > 0:30:34- When the weather permits.
0:30:34 > 0:30:37- The weather has improved, - thank goodness...
0:30:38 > 0:30:40- ..though we've had heavy showers.
0:30:40 > 0:30:43- We haven't had any rain - for a fortnight.
0:30:44 > 0:30:47- It rained a little last night, - just a few drops.
0:30:47 > 0:30:49- It dried as soon as it fell.
0:30:49 > 0:30:51- This is a good day for baling.
0:30:51 > 0:30:52- This is a good day for baling.- - Yes, it is.
0:30:52 > 0:30:53- It's nice hay.
0:30:53 > 0:30:55- It's nice hay.- - It should keep well.
0:30:55 > 0:30:58- How much hay do you harvest?
0:30:59 > 0:31:02- About 1,500 small bales of hay.
0:31:03 > 0:31:05- And about 300 large bales.
0:31:06 > 0:31:09- Hay makes good fodder, doesn't it?
0:31:09 > 0:31:11- Yes.
0:31:11 > 0:31:12- Small bales are handy.
0:31:13 > 0:31:16- They're convenient, - when the weather's bad.
0:31:17 > 0:31:20- You can carry a little at a time.
0:31:21 > 0:31:25- You need the right tools, - but machines are expensive.
0:31:25 > 0:31:26- Terribly expensive.
0:31:26 > 0:31:30- We've had these machines - since the late '70s.
0:31:32 > 0:31:34- How much more is there to do?
0:31:34 > 0:31:36- How much more is there to do?- - We're more than halfway there.
0:31:36 > 0:31:38- Are you really?
0:31:38 > 0:31:40- We made silage last week.
0:31:40 > 0:31:42- This weather is good for haymaking.
0:31:43 > 0:31:47- We'll have to wait and see - what weather phase comes next.
0:31:47 > 0:31:50- I think it's due to change - at the weekend.
0:31:51 > 0:31:52- We'll see what happens.
0:31:53 > 0:31:55- Baling has become easier.
0:31:55 > 0:31:57- Yes, it has.
0:31:58 > 0:32:02- We've been using the same system - for almost 40 years.
0:32:02 > 0:32:06- You know, that little trailer - - it's a very small trailer...
0:32:07 > 0:32:10- ..if you take two loads home, - how many bales is that?
0:32:11 > 0:32:12- A hundred and twelve.
0:32:12 > 0:32:14- It takes 56 bales at a time.
0:32:15 > 0:32:18- You have to fill it correctly...
0:32:18 > 0:32:21- ..making sure - all the bales are in place.
0:32:21 > 0:32:23- Then, it's easy.
0:32:23 > 0:32:26- Did you say that the trailer - is 40 years old?
0:32:26 > 0:32:28- It was bought in the late '70s.
0:32:28 > 0:32:31- Last year, it broke down - for the first time.
0:32:32 > 0:32:34- Before you started making silage...
0:32:34 > 0:32:37- ..how many bales - would you make each year?
0:32:38 > 0:32:39- Small bales, I mean.
0:32:39 > 0:32:41- Twelve years ago...
0:32:42 > 0:32:47- ..we were still making - about 13,000 small bales.
0:32:47 > 0:32:49- Good gracious!
0:32:49 > 0:32:52- These machines - were just what you needed.
0:32:52 > 0:32:55- Before that, - we'd make 7,000 to 8,000...
0:32:55 > 0:32:58- ..then, we acquired more land...
0:32:59 > 0:33:02- ..which provided - another 3,000 small bales.
0:33:02 > 0:33:06- We'd carry those on trailers - - 250 on each one.
0:33:08 > 0:33:10- We'd make three journeys a day.
0:33:17 > 0:33:19- Whatever the time of year...
0:33:20 > 0:33:23- ..there's one daily task - that never changes.
0:33:24 > 0:33:28- The Friesian cows - wait patiently to be milked.
0:33:43 > 0:33:45- They're smart heifers, Trefor.
0:33:45 > 0:33:47- They're due to calve soon.
0:33:47 > 0:33:51- Do your heifers calve in September, - generally?
0:33:51 > 0:33:55- Yes, from September - until just before the holidays.
0:33:55 > 0:33:58- That's when we prefer to calve.
0:33:58 > 0:34:03- You have a milking parlour, but - didn't you use a pipeline for years?
0:34:03 > 0:34:06- We started using the parlour - in March.
0:34:06 > 0:34:08- We were quite fortunate.
0:34:08 > 0:34:12- We found one for sale - near Clatterbridge Hospital...
0:34:12 > 0:34:14- ..on the Leverhulme Estate.
0:34:15 > 0:34:18- My brother and Iwan went there...
0:34:18 > 0:34:22- ..after the solar panels - were installed last year.
0:34:22 > 0:34:24- We needed a three-phase generator.
0:34:25 > 0:34:29- We saw an advert in the paper, - so they went to see the generator.
0:34:30 > 0:34:34- The farmer said - he also had a parlour for sale.
0:34:34 > 0:34:38- Lots of dairy farmers - have left the industry.
0:34:38 > 0:34:42- How long did it take the cows - to get used to the parlour?
0:34:43 > 0:34:47- They took about a week to ten days - to get used to it.
0:34:47 > 0:34:53- The biggest problem was their - tendency to stick close together.
0:34:53 > 0:34:57- Previously, there was more space - between them.
0:34:57 > 0:34:59- But they settled down.
0:34:59 > 0:35:01- How many cows do you have?
0:35:01 > 0:35:02- About 75.
0:35:03 > 0:35:06- We may increase the herd a little, - later on.
0:35:06 > 0:35:08- That's a decent number.
0:35:08 > 0:35:11- We have 21 heifers, - so we may increase the herd.
0:35:11 > 0:35:14- You rarely buy animals to bring in.
0:35:14 > 0:35:16- We only buy bulls and rams.
0:35:16 > 0:35:20- It makes sense - - you know exactly where you stand.
0:35:20 > 0:35:24- Yes - buying animals - can cause health problems...
0:35:24 > 0:35:27- ..there's always some problem - with them.
0:35:27 > 0:35:31- "Everyone has problems, - life isn't always perfect!"
0:35:41 > 0:35:45- September 2016
0:36:06 > 0:36:09- They say the sun shines - on the righteous.
0:36:09 > 0:36:13- It's certainly shining today - on the Rhydonnen family.
0:36:13 > 0:36:16- This is their biggest day - of the year.
0:36:16 > 0:36:21- They're selling ewe lambs - and yearlings at Ruthin mart.
0:36:22 > 0:36:25- Half-breed sheep aren't as popular.
0:36:26 > 0:36:29- They've been overtaken - by Welsh mules.
0:36:29 > 0:36:32- But this farm's sheep - are old-fashioned...
0:36:32 > 0:36:37- ..born to Welsh Mountain ewes, - sired by a Border Leicester ram.
0:36:37 > 0:36:39- They're hoping for a good day.
0:36:48 > 0:36:51- The market in Ruthin - is packed this morning...
0:36:51 > 0:36:55- ..with loads of stock - arriving from all directions.
0:36:55 > 0:37:00- As the lambs are unloaded, - Arfon Jones is there to help.
0:37:04 > 0:37:06- Do you have sheep to sell today?
0:37:06 > 0:37:07- Do you have sheep to sell today?- - Hello, Dei.
0:37:07 > 0:37:10- I'm just helping a neighbour.
0:37:10 > 0:37:13- I've been helping him - bring his sheep in.
0:37:13 > 0:37:15- You were helping the lads?
0:37:15 > 0:37:17- You were helping the lads?- - We brought two loads of lambs.
0:37:18 > 0:37:19- Two loads?
0:37:19 > 0:37:21- It's a neighbourly area.
0:37:21 > 0:37:24- It's a neighbourly area.- - Yes, we're quite neighbourly.
0:37:26 > 0:37:28- They're good neighbours.
0:37:28 > 0:37:30- They're good lads.
0:37:30 > 0:37:33- Iwan, the son, is very helpful.
0:37:33 > 0:37:35- A young lad.
0:37:36 > 0:37:37- It's good to see them.
0:37:37 > 0:37:39- It's good to see them.- - They're strong and fit.
0:37:39 > 0:37:42- Have you been neighbours for long?
0:37:42 > 0:37:46- Yes, we've been close neighbours - since day one.
0:37:46 > 0:37:48- There's a saying...
0:37:48 > 0:37:52- .."Better a neighbour nearby - than a brother far away."
0:37:52 > 0:37:54- That's very true.
0:37:59 > 0:38:03- AN AUCTIONEER SPEAKS - THROUGH A LOUDSPEAKER
0:38:05 > 0:38:08- Selling is about to begin.
0:38:09 > 0:38:13- The sheep are in place, - the auctioneer is ready.
0:38:21 > 0:38:23- THE AUCTIONEER SPEAKS RAPIDLY
0:38:35 > 0:38:40- The farmer has waited for months, - ever since these lambs were born...
0:38:41 > 0:38:44- ..to see - how much money they'll make.
0:38:44 > 0:38:48- It's an important moment - - there are bills to be paid.
0:38:48 > 0:38:52- It's these yearlings - that will pay those bills.
0:39:17 > 0:39:21- Lads, you must be satisfied - with the results.
0:39:21 > 0:39:22- Very satisfied.
0:39:23 > 0:39:24- Prices were good.
0:39:24 > 0:39:28- Have some of those farmers - bought from you before?
0:39:28 > 0:39:30- Yes, we see them coming back.
0:39:30 > 0:39:36- If animals are physically fit - and have a good head...
0:39:36 > 0:39:38- ..they'll sell.
0:39:38 > 0:39:39- Yes, they'll sell.
0:39:40 > 0:39:43- I think the lambs fetched - 15 to 18 each...
0:39:43 > 0:39:45- ..I haven't worked it out, yet...
0:39:45 > 0:39:47- ..on average.
0:39:47 > 0:39:51- Ewes were selling - for about 12 or so.
0:39:51 > 0:39:54- I watched as they were sold - and taken away.
0:39:54 > 0:39:59- There's a lot of work involved, - right from the start.
0:40:00 > 0:40:02- I was talking to some of the buyers.
0:40:02 > 0:40:07- They've received a little more - for their fat lambs this year.
0:40:07 > 0:40:09- Things weren't so good last year.
0:40:10 > 0:40:13- Standards were high throughout.
0:40:13 > 0:40:15- Yes, they were.
0:40:15 > 0:40:17- The auctioneer was on his toes.
0:40:18 > 0:40:20- What's the next step?
0:40:20 > 0:40:22- Finishing the harvest?
0:40:22 > 0:40:25- I hope we'll be combining - this afternoon.
0:40:26 > 0:40:27- While it's still sunny.
0:40:28 > 0:40:31- What about holidays - - will you go on safari?!
0:40:31 > 0:40:33- Enjoyable work is like a holiday!
0:40:34 > 0:40:35- It's not a burden.
0:40:42 > 0:40:42- .
0:40:46 > 0:40:46- Subtitles
0:40:46 > 0:40:48- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:40:51 > 0:40:54- It's almost the end of summer.
0:40:54 > 0:40:58- Harvesting is gradually - coming to an end at Rhydonnen.
0:40:58 > 0:41:02- The old combines are running - as smoothly as ever.
0:41:02 > 0:41:06- The boys have done well - to look after their machines.
0:41:07 > 0:41:09- The two combines are working well.
0:41:09 > 0:41:11- The two combines are working well.- - Yes, it's amazing.
0:41:11 > 0:41:14- This is the older one - - it's almost as old as I am.
0:41:15 > 0:41:17- But it's still going strong.
0:41:17 > 0:41:20- All your machines - have a good lifespan.
0:41:20 > 0:41:21- You look after them.
0:41:21 > 0:41:23- You look after them.- - They're kept inside.
0:41:24 > 0:41:28- Ready to bring out - when the weather's right.
0:41:28 > 0:41:30- The weather is glorious today.
0:41:31 > 0:41:33- Most of the work has been done.
0:41:33 > 0:41:34- The grain is good.
0:41:35 > 0:41:38- It's been quite damp recently.
0:41:38 > 0:41:42- This has always been a popular - method for growing cereals.
0:41:42 > 0:41:45- Some people may laugh, - but it works for us.
0:41:46 > 0:41:49- The yield may be lower, of course.
0:41:49 > 0:41:51- We're ready for next year.
0:41:51 > 0:41:54- You'll bring fat lambs - into the field, will you?
0:41:55 > 0:41:59- It'll also provide - a few small bales of straw.
0:42:00 > 0:42:00- It all helps.
0:42:00 > 0:42:03- It all helps.- - There's quite a lot of grain.
0:42:03 > 0:42:04- Yes, there is.
0:42:05 > 0:42:07- We've had a good crop.
0:42:08 > 0:42:11- It's a good feeling, isn't it.
0:42:11 > 0:42:14- As winter approaches, - you have plenty of fodder.
0:42:15 > 0:42:16- That's nice to know.
0:42:16 > 0:42:21- It's good if there's still some - fodder to spare when spring comes.
0:42:21 > 0:42:25- And if there is, you keep it, - in case you'll need it.
0:42:25 > 0:42:29- Some farmers - will sell whatever's left over.
0:42:30 > 0:42:35- Years ago, people wouldn't dream - of selling any surplus.
0:42:35 > 0:42:38- They'd keep it in the barn - for use in early winter.
0:42:39 > 0:42:43- Or it would make a nice, dry bale - in spring, with a little grass.
0:42:45 > 0:42:47- We're being old-fashioned again!
0:42:47 > 0:42:49- We're being old-fashioned again!- - That's great!
0:42:49 > 0:42:51- It helps us pay our bills.
0:42:51 > 0:42:52- It works.
0:42:53 > 0:42:56- The combine is roaring away - like Concorde!
0:42:56 > 0:42:59- The machine may be old, - but Trefor likes it.
0:43:04 > 0:43:07- It didn't want to stop!
0:43:07 > 0:43:08- Just like us!
0:43:09 > 0:43:12- This must be the best weather - we've had for years.
0:43:12 > 0:43:16- It came on suddenly - - it's been miserable enough.
0:43:16 > 0:43:17- Today is very hot.
0:43:17 > 0:43:18- Today is very hot.- - It came on suddenly.
0:43:19 > 0:43:21- There's plenty of grain.
0:43:21 > 0:43:24- A bit too much - - I've had to cut it high.
0:43:24 > 0:43:25- The old combine is running well.
0:43:25 > 0:43:27- The old combine is running well.- - Yes, it's a good machine.
0:43:27 > 0:43:29- We're lucky to have it.
0:43:30 > 0:43:33- I used to work at Llysfasi College.
0:43:34 > 0:43:36- I'd driven it at work, for 15 years.
0:43:37 > 0:43:40- I left, then I came across it - two years ago.
0:43:40 > 0:43:44- My son was on the internet, - looking for a combine.
0:43:44 > 0:43:47- It was time to retire - our old combine...
0:43:47 > 0:43:50- ..though we kept it as an antique.
0:43:51 > 0:43:54- We bought this, - the combine I'd used at work.
0:43:54 > 0:43:57- That shows how close it is - to your heart!
0:43:58 > 0:44:01- You talk about machines - in affectionate terms!
0:44:03 > 0:44:04- Very good!
0:44:05 > 0:44:08- It's nice that you do - all the work yourselves.
0:44:08 > 0:44:11- Yes, we can work whenever we choose.
0:44:11 > 0:44:14- You have a comfortable place to sit.
0:44:15 > 0:44:18- And I imagine - your wallet is quite full today!
0:44:18 > 0:44:20- Yes, we did well at the sale!
0:44:39 > 0:44:42- The year is drawing to its end.
0:44:42 > 0:44:44- Leaves are changing colour.
0:44:45 > 0:44:48- I've enjoyed this visit enormously.
0:44:49 > 0:44:53- Rhydonnen, Llangollen, - is a family farm at its best...
0:44:54 > 0:44:57- ..run by two brothers and two sons.
0:44:57 > 0:45:02- For this farm, the future - is as bright as it has ever been.
0:45:04 > 0:45:05- Here it is...
0:45:06 > 0:45:07- ..the new building.
0:45:09 > 0:45:12- You'll have to explain to me - what it is.
0:45:13 > 0:45:19- First of all, what was - your original plan for the shed?
0:45:19 > 0:45:21- A shed for keeping cattle.
0:45:22 > 0:45:26- Then I came across - an electricity generating unit.
0:45:27 > 0:45:31- We already had the biomass burner - for generating heat.
0:45:31 > 0:45:35- Then we heard about - combined heat and power units.
0:45:35 > 0:45:38- Will you be using waste wood?
0:45:38 > 0:45:39- Will you be using waste wood?- - Some waste wood, yes.
0:45:40 > 0:45:45- Initially, we'll buy wood chips - - they have to be a certain standard.
0:45:45 > 0:45:47- Burning chips produce gas...
0:45:48 > 0:45:51- ..which drives an engine, - which turns a generator.
0:45:52 > 0:45:56- It produces almost 100 kilowatts, - and it works night and day.
0:45:56 > 0:46:01- And electricity that's surplus - to your needs goes into the grid?
0:46:02 > 0:46:05- So you'll be earning money - at the same time?
0:46:06 > 0:46:07- Exactly.
0:46:07 > 0:46:08- Exactly.- - More money for the farm.
0:46:08 > 0:46:12- Yes - it'll be another arm - of the business.
0:46:26 > 0:46:30- We've seen all four seasons, - more or less...
0:46:31 > 0:46:33- ..at Rhydonnen, Rhewl, Llangollen.
0:46:34 > 0:46:38- We've come back today, - towards the end of the year.
0:46:38 > 0:46:42- I notice you're making the most - of your rooftops...
0:46:42 > 0:46:46- ..in order to generate electricity - for nothing.
0:46:46 > 0:46:47- You've put a lot of effort into it.
0:46:47 > 0:46:49- You've put a lot of effort into it.- - It's a necessity.
0:46:49 > 0:46:51- This is a time of change.
0:46:51 > 0:46:56- The European Single Farm Payment - will disappear.
0:46:56 > 0:46:59- No-one knows what will replace it.
0:46:59 > 0:47:01- We need greater security.
0:47:01 > 0:47:06- Alternative sources of income - will enable us to keep farming.
0:47:07 > 0:47:10- Everything on this farm - works as it should.
0:47:11 > 0:47:13- You wouldn't change anything.
0:47:13 > 0:47:17- No, we wouldn't - - we practise what we were taught...
0:47:17 > 0:47:19- ..and everything works well.
0:47:19 > 0:47:21- Your parents worked this farm.
0:47:21 > 0:47:23- Your parents worked this farm.- - And my grandfather.
0:47:23 > 0:47:26- He was followed by my father - and my brother.
0:47:28 > 0:47:31- My father died in 2011.
0:47:31 > 0:47:35- Since then, Eryl and I - and the children have carried on.
0:47:35 > 0:47:39- We want to be left alone - to do what we want.
0:48:03 > 0:48:05- S4C subtitles by Trosol Cyf.
0:48:05 > 0:48:05- .