For some time, the society has faced a shortage of good‑quality manure. Many farmers have begun using all their own manure as fertiliser on their fields, which has reduced the amount available for purchase and driven prices up. The committee recognised that the only sustainable way forward was to secure our own supply by sourcing manure directly from small stables in the local area.
Two weeks ago, we received a lottery grant of four thousand one hundred and twenty pounds (£4,120) to purchase a trailer. Using a combination of a hired tractor and our own tractor, we set up a local connection service. We had the option to buy a ‘fit for purpose’ trailer or restoring one ourselves. Owing to the lack of availability of a suitable trailer, we bought one locally and will be restoring it.
We’ve decided to launch a blog to share the progress of this project, and we’ll soon be calling for volunteers to help with the work. There’s plenty to do. We want to increase the height of the trailer’s sides, check all the hydraulics, inspect the wheels and bearings, possibly replace the tyres, and maybe even add some smart new logos. It’s a few weeks of solid graft for a handful of stout‑hearted volunteers — but the end result will be well worth it.
We have already tested the tipper and hydraulics and have moved the trailer to a safer and more user-friendly position.
Please watch this space for more information.