On today’s episode, I chat to Aimee Budge from the Bigton Farm. Aimee, and sister Kirsty, took over their family farm in 2014 following the unexpected death of their father. Aged just 17 and 21, they have achieved great things since they took over, including an appearance on the BBC’s hit show  This Farming Life. They were also winners of the prestigious BBC Countryfile’s Farming Heroes Award in 2018

Today they manage and run the 350-acre farm, as well as another 350-acre farm nearby and an additional 300 acres of rented grazing land. Bigton Farm is in Shetland’s picturesque South Mainland and has panoramic views across the beautiful tombolo and St Ninian’s Isle.

The farm has about 90 cattle, 500 sheep, several horses and ponies and they grow 60 acres of barley.

Farming is in Aimee’s blood, and as a fifth-generation farmer, she is continually building on the hard work and dedication of all those who have gone before here. She is a real advocate for women in farming and promotes the Young Farmer’s Group both locally and nationally.

As well as working the farm full-time, Aimee also offers both farm tours and Shetland pony tours for visitors who are looking for an added layer to their Shetland experience – and where better to see the ponies than overlooking the sweeping sands of St Ninian’s Isle.

She talks about what farming in Shetland looks like, her time at agricultural college and parts with a final message which urges more women to get into agriculture!

Links:

Find Bigton Farm online on Facebook and Instagram

BBC Countryfile Farming Heroes award

The Award-winning Farmer

Shetland Young Farmers