MP visits North Yorkshire farm where hens follow in footprints of grazing cattle

MP Julian Smith visited a North Yorkshire farm to hear about its approach to maximising sustainability.

James Johnson farms alongside his father at Mallard Grange, Ripon, where they have been moving towards regenerative agriculture.

The farm includes a diverse range of livestock, including about 200 hundred cows and calves, while crops include wheat, barley and oil seed rape. There is also a B&B and wildflower garden.

James showed Skipton and Ripon MP Mr Smith their innovative approach to egg production. The hens reside in converted livestock trailers that move to follow the cattle around their grazing paddocks, meaning they have a huge amount of space and plenty to forage for.

“It was great to visit the farm and learn a bit more about how James is putting regeneration at the heart of his farm," said Mr Smith.

“I’m grateful to him for taking the time to show me around and talk me through why he’s adopted this approach.”