Power pack help Maidstone young farmers
Young farmers in Maidstone received a welcome lift from local power workers.
Cobtree Young Farmers’ Club invited 20 volunteers from UK Power Networks to help the charity replace broken fence posts, dismantle a small lean-to attached to a barn, clean and paint the main club room, remove bricks and rubble and tidy up the site.
Club leader Mark Essex, a project manager in UK Power Networks’ connections team, helps young people take their first steps in farming and started giving his free time to the charity while supporting his three daughters, who now work in dairy farming.
Mark said: “Everyone worked incredibly hard and so much was achieved in one day. These are jobs which are difficult to achieve whilst doing the day-to-day tasks that need to be done, so it was hugely appreciated.
“Our members immediately noticed the work that had been done by UK Power Networks, and were so grateful for everyone’s efforts, and to UK Power Networks for allowing the teams to take part in this volunteer day.
“Their support makes our members feel proud about where they are working. We have organised a few volunteer days for UK Power Networks’ staff at the farm and they are invaluable.”
The power firm’s contractor, Clancy, donated fences and a gate for the improvements.
The club manages 30-acres of land by J6 M20, where a team of 25 young people learn how to care for pigs, sheep, cattle and hens, covering everything from cleaning out and installing bedding for livestock, to giving medicine, foot trimming and tail docking.
Mark said: “Our members have an opportunity to show animals at agricultural shows and gain life skills. After a few years they are confident talking to people on their subject and I get a lot of satisfaction from seeing them grow in confidence.”
The club meets Saturdays from 10am-4pm and the average age of members is 10 to 18.
Cobtree Young Farmers’ Club invited 20 volunteers from UK Power Networks to help the charity replace broken fence posts, dismantle a small lean-to attached to a barn, clean and paint the main club room, remove bricks and rubble and tidy up the site.
Club leader Mark Essex, a project manager in UK Power Networks’ connections team, helps young people take their first steps in farming and started giving his free time to the charity while supporting his three daughters, who now work in dairy farming.
Mark said: “Everyone worked incredibly hard and so much was achieved in one day. These are jobs which are difficult to achieve whilst doing the day-to-day tasks that need to be done, so it was hugely appreciated.
“Our members immediately noticed the work that had been done by UK Power Networks, and were so grateful for everyone’s efforts, and to UK Power Networks for allowing the teams to take part in this volunteer day.
“Their support makes our members feel proud about where they are working. We have organised a few volunteer days for UK Power Networks’ staff at the farm and they are invaluable.”
The power firm’s contractor, Clancy, donated fences and a gate for the improvements.
The club manages 30-acres of land by J6 M20, where a team of 25 young people learn how to care for pigs, sheep, cattle and hens, covering everything from cleaning out and installing bedding for livestock, to giving medicine, foot trimming and tail docking.
Mark said: “Our members have an opportunity to show animals at agricultural shows and gain life skills. After a few years they are confident talking to people on their subject and I get a lot of satisfaction from seeing them grow in confidence.”
The club meets Saturdays from 10am-4pm and the average age of members is 10 to 18.