Three Generations of Dairy Farming, and Counting Consett Magazine

For almost 60 years the Bradley family has farmed the land around Lanchester, although their dairy farming story began even earlier in Langley Park.

Today, Graeme and Hillary are passing the reins to their son Matthew and his partner Ellie, ensuring the family’s proud farming tradition continues.

A young couple in work clothes and wellington boots standing in a field, the man carrying a baby in a sling on his chest, with black and white Holstein dairy cows behind them — The next generation at Langpark, with the Holstein herd behind. Photograph: George Ledger, Communities in Focus

Home to the ‘Langpark Herd’ of more than 280 pedigree Holstein cattle, the farm is a hive of activity all year round, with animal welfare and sustainable farming at the heart of everything they do. Local team members Olivia Morris and Jamie Ferry also play an important role in keeping the dairy running smoothly.

In the milking parlour, where the day starts early all year round. Photograph: George Ledger, Communities in Focus

The future is already taking shape too, with young Laurie happily helping to bring the cows in for milking. It seems the next generation of the Bradley family is already learning the values of hard work, dedication and caring for the land.

More than 280 pedigree Holsteins make up the Langpark Herd. Photograph: George Ledger, Communities in Focus

A wonderful local farming story that spans generations.

Words and photographs by George Ledger, Communities in Focus

Three Generations of Dairy Farming, and Counting

For almost 60 years the Bradley family has farmed the land around Lanchester, although their dairy farming story began even earlier in Langley Park.

Tags

Your story belongs on Consett Magazine

More from Consett Magazine