QUARRY Farm near East Allington opened its gates to more than 100 people this month.

The open day gave visitors the opportunity to explore a working, mixed south Devon farm, and discover how it operates in the 21st century.

John Warne and his family, along with various volunteers ensured there was plenty to see and do.

The open day was part of ‘Open Farm Sunday’, organised by Linking Environment and Farming. Quarry Farm was one of 400 farms open to the public across the country.

The event, supported by the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, gave the opportunity for visitors to witness sheep shearing by local farmer David Camp, and to hear about why they are shorn and the value of wool.

The farm walk showed a flock of sheep and a suckler cow herd. This was followed by a round baling demonstration by Jon Haddy Agricultural Contracting and a bale wrapping demonstration.

Agronomist Emma Dennis, with the help of her puppet ‘Freddie Fox’, gave a talk on the management of the barley crop and what the grower needs to take into consideration to ensure optimum output.

Back in the farmyard, there were plenty of children’s activities, including animal mask-making, ‘farmigami’ - farm animal origami, and an ‘I spy’ quiz.

Adults could try their luck at a competition identifying old farmhouse and farm implements and objects. There was also a fantastic spread of cakes to enjoy throughout the afternoon, with proceeds from donations being split between the Devon Air Ambulance Trust and the Royal Aricultural Benevolent Institution.

Farmer John Warne said: ‘It was a pleasure to welcome the public onto the farm for the second year.

‘The children were especially keen to know about how the animals are looked after, get close to real life farming and have a greater understanding of how their food is produced.’

Diane Lethbridge from the South Devon AONB said: ‘The theme for this year was focusing on technology.

‘It was clear to everyone who came along that this is an important feature of modern day farming and goes hand in hand with looking after the environment.’