More than 70 farmers from across the East Devon National Landscape came together for the annual East Devon Farmers Group summer social, hosted by Sam and Nell Walker at Stantyway Farm in late July. 

Held on a warm summer evening, the event provided an opportunity for farmers from across the area to meet, share experiences and learn more about the work being undertaken at one of East Devon’s diverse farming businesses. 

Guests were welcomed to Stantyway Farm, where Sam Walker showcased the farm’s varied organic operation. The farm produces a range of crops including oats, beans, quinoa and lucerne, alongside a herd of beef cattle, demonstrating a mixed farming approach that works alongside the area’s natural environment. 

One of the highlights of the evening was a guided tour of the farm aboard educational trailers provided by the Walker family and Clinton Devon Estates. The tour took attendees through the farm’s rolling fields and up to Brandy Head Observation Post, where attendees were rewarded with panoramic views stretching along the East Devon coastline. 

The evening also celebrated the rich wildlife found across the farm. Among the sightings were variety of butterfly species and a Peregrine Falcon. 

As well as providing an opportunity to connect and learn from one another, the event also raised money for RABI (Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution), the farming charity that supports farming people through financial, practical and emotional assistance. A raffle held during the evening generated valuable funds for the charity, with attendees generously supporting the cause. 

The event highlighted the important role that farmers play in managing the East Devon landscape, while also providing an opportunity to share knowledge, strengthen connections and celebrate the area’s thriving farming community. 

David White joined the evening to share his expertise on the wildlife present across the farm, giving attendees a fascinating insight into the species that are benefiting from the landscape and farming practices at Stantyway. 

“It was a fantastic evening and a real pleasure to see the diversity of crops and farming techniques being used at Stantyway. I had a number of valuable conversations with farmers about how FiPL funding could support their plans for creating new habitats, the development of diversification ideas, and the restoration of historic landscape features on their farms. There is nothing quite like a good chat to help get a project off the ground.” Jack Hirst, Farming in Protected Landscapes Officer

The East Devon Farmers Group summer social is a popular fixture in the farming calendar, bringing together members from across the National Landscape to see first-hand how local farms are adapting, innovating and contributing to both food production and nature recovery. 

The East Devon National Landscape team would like to thank everyone who attended and extend special thanks to Sam and Nell Walker for their generous hospitality, Clinton Devon Estates for supporting the farm tour, David White for sharing his knowledge throughout the evening, and all those who contributed to the raffle in support of RABI.