Cattle farmers from Angus, Perthshire, and Shetland are in the spotlight tonight as they feature in the newest episode of BBC Scotland’s Landward series. The show, hosted by Dougie Vipond, aims to highlight the crucial role that cattle play in Scotland’s countryside.
In the episode, Dougie visits Incheoch Farm near Alyth, Perthshire, where he observes an on-site auction where bulls are up for sale. The bulls, including Simmentals, Aberdeen-Angus, and Luing breeds, are showcased without any “sprucing up” typically seen in traditional sales. Neil McGowan, the farmer at Incheoch, explains their focus on maternal lines and the importance of producing offspring that will calve easily and milk well.
Meanwhile, Cammy Wilson embarks on a journey to Swona, an island in the Pentland Firth, to observe a herd of wild cattle. These cattle, a mix of Aberdeen-Angus and Shorthorn, have adapted to the island environment over the years. The island, now a site of special scientific interest, is home to these unique creatures.
The episode also delves into the history of Aberdeen-Angus cattle, once exported all over the world. Arlene Stuart meets with Geordie and Louise Soutar from Dunlouise Angus near Forfar, who have dedicated themselves to preserving the native bloodlines of the breed. Through careful breeding and genetic selection, they have ensured that their cattle are 100% native Angus, resembling the original cattle from the 1800s.
In Shetland, Anne MacAlpine visits Setter Farm, the most northerly dairy farm in Britain, run by the Irvine family for over 100 years. The farm faces challenges due to rising costs and regulations, leading to a decline in dairy farming in the region. Linda Irvine expresses concerns about the future of dairy farming in Shetland and encourages her children to pursue alternative careers.
Lastly, Rosie Morton meets with best-selling author James Oswald in Fife, who has a passion for Highland cows alongside his writing career. James finds solace and inspiration in caring for his herd, often using the peaceful surroundings to work through plot points in his novels. His farm serves as a retreat where he can connect with nature and his gentle bovine companions.
Overall, the episode celebrates the rich history and vital contributions of cattle farmers across Scotland, showcasing their resilience, dedication, and passion for their animals. Through personal stories and unique insights, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and rewards of working with cattle in Scotland’s diverse landscapes.