The Small Farm Training Group

Willow Workshop - Fruit Bowls/Basic Baskets
2023-03-11 10:30 - 16:00 (Europe/London) | East Sussex
In this workshops you will learn basic willow weaving skills. and make a basic willow basket/fruit bowl.
Richard Vidal, is going to be our tutor. He has recently retired from the civil service to spend more time with his passion for all things ‘willow’. He has grown his own willow for 18 years and produces beautiful sculptures, living willow structures, ornaments and baskets. This introductory workshop will cover the growing, harvesting, storage and dipping of dry willow into water to regain its innate flexibility.
Before his retirement Richard sold willow at Blackheath Farmers Market and started to teach willow weaving to community groups so understands the different levels of teaching required dependent on previous experience.
For this workshop please dress warmly: waterproof gloves and leggings are useful and walking boots or wellies essential. Please bring secateurs (though spares are available).
Bring a packed lunch. Tea and coffee will be provided.
Please leave your dog at home as it might slow you down in completing your creations, but if you have no dog sitter then you can bring your pet if it is well behaved and quiet.
Richard’s mobile is 07597 939668 and his email is richardhvidal@yahoo.co.uk. He is happy to discuss and explain what to expect at the workshop in more detail and to consider making adjustments for any disabilities or injuries.

Faecal Egg Count with Kate Scott BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
2023-03-11 10:00 - 14:00
Faecal Egg Count 11th March 10-2pm

With Medical herbalist and farmer Kate Scott BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine

A day looking at FEC’s and how to carry out yourself on the farm. Everyone will get a chance to have a go , members are welcome to bring their own samples. Egg id charts and info sheets will be provided to take home. Information on the McMaster slides and kit , and on sourcing a suitable microscope. Advice about the importance of knowing when to use anthelmintics and the effect overuse has on resistance and soil mocrobia.

If you have your own microscope you are welcome to bring it, plus a sample of poo, but just a tablespoon full!! please bring a packed lunch.

Directions: We are half way between Robertsbridge and Brightling on the Brightling Road. You cannot see the house/farm from the road but we have a laid hedge along the roadside with our gateway in the middle. We are next door to Swallowfield Farm, the satnav will take you past so please look out for Swallowfield Farm, we are on the Robertsbridge side of Swallowfield.

High Weald dairy
2023-03-07 18:00 - 20:00
This is a belter of a tour, rave accolades abound. I’ve booked a private tour for SFTG folk at 6pm on Monday 3 July.High Weald are a family owned dairy making georgeous cheese from the same basic ingredient, milk, (cows, sheep and goat) but all tasting very different….I’m sure most of us will have tried their Duddleswell or Slipcote but they make lots and we get to try them too. The entire process … from pasteurisation to packaging takes place on the dairy ..they’ve even got an on site smokery.

Beginners Pressure & Water Bath Canning Workshop
2023-03-06 10:30 - 14:30
Join fellow member and knowledgeable pressure Canner Karen, in a kitchen setting and learn the basics of both water bath canning, and the process of "Pressure Canning" - (which is not to be confused with pressure cooking that we have here in the UK).
Are you wondering whether to get into pressure canning but want to experience it before you buy your own equipment? In this workshop you will be able to see and experience a pressure canner in action and see for yourself before you commit!
The Course will introduce how to safely use the equipment with a strong emphasis on food safety, and we'll adhere to the standards set by the American department of agriculture (USDA).
The course shows the preparatory work, set up of the canner plus storage of canned goods. We will can examples from start to finish! You will get a handout with the most important pieces of information and you will be able to ask a lot of questions.
This is an ideal workshop for those who want to learn how to preserve their produce without the need to refrigerate, or freeze. The techniques you learn will give you shelf stable foods for a minimum of one year, without the need to use expensive electricity. Pressure canning is little used in the UK, but this process does enable you to preserve and store your precious produce for a minimum of one year in a pantry or cupboard environment. We will be using the "All American" pressure canner.
The course includes a light lunch and teas/coffees and biscuits.
Can't make this date? Event sold out? Please email our training organiser so that you will be on the list when we run the workshop again.

Biodynamics & Shamanism
2023-03-06 10:00 - 14:00
Learn from fellow Member Dr Joanna Gore & learn how she and husband Paul are transforming their farm with Biodynamics and Shamanism – Applying a biodynamic Prep (Horn manure 500) with dynamizing and sacred intention
Biodynamic farming is a holistic, ecological, and ethical approach to farming, gardening, food, and nutrition. A Biodynamic farm or garden is an integrated, whole living organism made up of many elements. Fields, forests, plants, animals, soils, people and the spirit of the place. Biodynamic practitioners work alongside nature to nurture and harmonize these elements to support the vitality of the whole. The biodynamic approach is always organic, but it also goes beyond organic in that a set of carefully prepared plant and animal based preparations are also applied to the land. These are often applied in ceremony and with mindful intention. Biodynamics is both a science and a 'spiritual' approach to farming. Joanna is a shamanic practitioner as well as a small farmer and so her farming practice integrates the two.

This workshop will introduce the making of one biodynamic preparation, Horn Manure 500 and then the practical application of it including the ceremonial dynamizing/stirring and intentional application to the land.
You will be asked to bring an edible herb with you that you have mindfully picked yourself for a community tea, this will connect you energetically with the land before the application.
Please wear wellies and warm clothing, bring drums or rattles, if you have them.
There will be an overview talk on Biodynamics in the third week of March, you may wish to attend before the workshop.
10-2pm – Please bring a packed lunch, tea and coffee provided.
Last minute contact: Joanna 07745899462 or joannagore@hotmail.com
Directions: We are half way between Robertsbridge and Brightling on the Brightling Road. You cannot see the house/farm from the road but we have a laid hedge along the roadside with our gateway in the middle. We are next door to Swallowfield Farm, the satnav will take you past so please look out for Swallowfield Farm, we are on the Robertsbridge side of Swallowfield.
Dr Joanna Gore is Biodynamic and Organic inspector for the Biodynamic Association and has been setting up/running her Biodynamic smallholding for two years.

Raising Meat Chickens for Eating
2023-03-05 10:30 - 12:30
Learn the basics of raising free range "meat" chickens for home consumption. This isn't a case of simply eating your spare cockerels, but a workshop dedicated to rearing the types of birds that are specifically selectively bred for meat consumption. You can then produce your own free range chickens that you know have been truly free ranging, with no chemicals or additives in your meat unless you put them there. This workshop covers the rearing process from day old chicks, to 10 weeks of age.
Raising your own meat chickens can give you food security and food independence, and are a good option for those just starting out in livestock production, who want to see if they can manage the realities of raising meat to eat.
We will look at the different type of meat birds to raise, where to source day old chicks, pricing, as well as the most suitable housing, how to maximise production for meat, which are the best feeders and waterers to use to minimise waste, and how to make feeders and waterers, as well as any problems to look out for when raising these meat birds. We will also look at the costs of raising these birds versus what they are "worth".
You will have the opportunity to look at meat chickens currently being reared, and ask lots of questions about what works, and what doesn't, as well as see our whole set up. There will be the opportunity to look at despatch methods for those who want to stay at the end.
This workshop forms part of our Food Security & Food Independence series, designed to help you become more self sufficient with your food options. For smallholders looking to increase income whilst living off of the land, we also give real life facts and figures on costings, which can all go towards a business plan if you are seeking an agricultural occupancy for a planning application.
Live chicks and chick crumb will probably be available to order or take away on this workshop - please bring a small box if you wish to purchase chicks.
* This workshop is set on a working smallholding and in a family kitchen environment where cats and dogs have been / are present - please inform the host of any allergies.
Can't make this date? Event sold out? We will be running this course several times in 2023, please email our training organiser so that you will be on the list when we run the workshop again.

Small Scale Grain Growing - For Bread & Feed
2023-02-25 12:00 - 15:00
2022 has seen a huge surge in prices, with ever increasing grain costs, both for home kitchen use in bread, and on the smallholding in animal feed. So maybe you have thoughat about growing your own wheat or barley?
Paul has been growing organic grain (wheat, barley and oats) for 15 years and whilst he would still call himself an amateur he has some tips which you may find useful. (We do know that he is due to feature on BBC 2 - where he teaches celebrity chef Marcus Wareing how to grow his own bread and thresh the wheat - Paul will happily sign autographs :¬)
The afternoon workshop will take place at his smallholding near Hellingly where he will show you this year’s wheat and barley crops and describe the various stages, tools and pitfalls involved. You can even see the Taj Mahal- his Indian-made stationary threshing machine which is the only one in the UK. Instead of the great British Bake-off you could find yourself involved in the Grow-off after this course.
Please dress for the weather, and for being outdoors.

Rearing Meat Rabbits for Smallholders & Urban Homesteaders
2023-02-25 10:30 - 12:30
Learn the basics of rearing rabbits for truly sustainable meat. You will visit our small rabbitry where we raise enough meat to feed our family in sustainable, high protein, ethically raised, rabbit meat. Rabbits truly are the the perfect livestock no matter what size space you have, so long as you have some outdoors space - it doesn't have to be huge!
This workshops covers the reasons why you may wish to rear rabbits, what breeds are suitable, what the different housing methods are the pros and cons of the different options. We will also look at colony rearing v's cage rearing, how to breed your rabbits, what are the costs involved, what to feed (and not) feed your rabbits, as well as how to care for the rabbits in general.
We also cover how to care and rear your baby rabbits, (kits) and produce a successful, healthy, and above all, ethically and morally responsible rabbitry for the smallholder.
You will be able to see our rabbits currently being reared, and ask lots of questions about what works, and what doesn't, as well as see our whole set up. There will be the opportunity to look at human despatch methods for those who want to stay at the end.
This workshop forms part of our Food Security & Food Independence series, designed to help you become more self sufficient with your food options. For smallholders looking to increase income whilst living off of the land, we also give real life facts and figures on costings, which can all go towards a business plan if you are seeking an agricultural occupancy for a planning application.
We also have live meat rabbits available to order or buy - feel free to get in contact if you wish to do this.
* This workshop is set on a working smallholding and in a family kitchen environment where cats and dogs have been / are present - please inform the host of any allergies.
Can't make this date? Event sold out? We will be running this course several times in 2023, please email our training organiser so that you will be on the list when we run the workshop again.

Goldstone Rum - Distillery Private Tour
2023-02-18 10:00 - 11:00
Fancy a Tour Around "Goldstone Rum" Distillery ? With delicious tastings at the end?
On a walking tour of the distillery, you will learn how they take the raw ingredients through fermentation, distillation in their impressive 500 litre still. The team will give you the story behind Goldstone Rum® and a better understanding of the history of rum and how it varies around the world.
Finally, you’ll be led through a tasting where you’ll learn the flavour profile and characteristics, and which rum works best in which cocktail.
Covid brought a lot of changes to us all, but an unexpected bonus was the birth of a rum distillery in Henfield. John and Georgina wanted to be more creative and immerse themselves in something new. John is a classically trained chef and his wife was brought up in a pub and Goldstone Rum is the result,To the best of their knowledge they are the only UK producer making rum with fresh sugar cane juice in the UK. Their unique take is to blend four types of jaggery, panela with molasses and fresh sugar cane juice to produce a truly delicious UK rum
They opened at the end of last year, and Cat Bush our Social Events Manager has snagged us a lovely walking t our around their distillery on 18th February 2023 Starting at 10.00 the tour takes about an hour and finishes with a tasting session! Cat is happy to arrange car sharing, or even a mini bus……just let her know ….Cat 0784 830000 by text or calling.
Booking Essential - Open to members and non members.

FREE FILM FEBRUARY 17th PLEASE NOTE CHANGED DETAILS
2023-02-17 19:30 - 21:30
Please note change of details!!!!!
the proposed speaker for this evening has now left the company and no one else is available to talk to us, so we are now showing a film…..the last horsemen …a year in the life of a remarkable family who farm using Clydesdales….the only horse powered farm in Britain.
Friday 17th February at the Goward Hall, Cade Street, Heathfield TN21 9BU. Click here for directions.
Doors open at 7.30 for refreshments and chit-chat; talk starts at 7.45 pm and finishes at 9 pm or shortly thereafter.
The Half Moon pub opposite the hall is happy to supply ‘take-out’ drinks.
This is event is FREE and NON-MEMBERS WELCOME. Please book your place so that we can ensure there are enough refreshments, and that we can get in touch should the event be cancelled due to speaker illness or other unforeseen circumstances.

Meet the Member - Lee's Vegetable Patch & Polytunnel
2023-02-09 14:00 - 16:00
Lee has invited us to her garden where she is going to tell us all about her vegetable patch and polytunnel. It should be an informative and fun afternoon.

Lee is an enthusiastic but very much an amateur gardener who is learning as she goes
She has a massive polytunnel and vegetable patch so come and find out what has been successful for her.
She will tell you how difficult it was to erect the polytunnel and give you tips if you decide to have one.
Discover how to extend the season with a polytunnel.
Lee grows lots of vegetables and she will tell you what she does with excess produce.

Family Farm Evening - Wed 2nd August
2023-02-08 17:30 - 19:00
Family farm evening.
Have a walk around Debbie's farm, a glorious 20 acre working smallholding at Pick Hill.
Meet the sheep, pigs, turkeys, and chickens, see how to care for them, and give them their evening dinner. See the polytunnel and vegetable garden.
There will be craft activities to enjoy, and sausages and marshmallow toasting.
Please be aware that this is a working farm, so please use common sense around hazards and animals.

Free talk on solar panels and battery storage
2023-02-06 19:30 - 21:00
Sadly our original speakers have had to pull out BUT I am thrilled that Nick Rouse has agreed to talk instead. He is the technical director of Ovesco, a not-for-profit organisation based in Lewes. They have installed solar panels on 15 sites using community raised finance. They give independent advice on energy matters and Nick has built up a collection of hands-on equipment to demonstrate aspects of renewable energy which he takes around to schools and appropriate events. He has a degree in electronic engineering and in 2013 gained a MSc. in renewable energy from the Centre for Renewable Energy in Machynlleth Wales. The title of the talk is the same: solar panels and battery storage and he’s going to gear it to the SFTG. Should be a good one!
It’s at Burwash Common Pavillion on 2nd June. The Pavilion opens at 730 with the talk starting around 750. This is completely free to SFTG members but we are making a nominal charge of £3.00 per person for non members to cover the cost of tea/coffee and snacks as well as the speaker and hire of the hall. Please bring cash or a card though if you’d like to take advantage of the full bar. Please do book so we can get the food and chairs right!
For those who need directions: Coming from the Heathfield direction on the A265 towards Etchingham. There are three Burwash…Burwash Common, Burwash Weald and Burwash itself. you need Burwash Common. Coming into the village, you’ll see the village sign and the Old Orchard cafe and village store on the left, take the left immediately after signposted to St Philips church and Stonegate Station. There is a large house on the corner in need of some serious repair and just after that is the Pavilion on the right. Parking is a bit further down the hill, also on the right.
from Etchingham, turn right at the signpost to St Philips and Stonegate Station ….and from Stonegate station continue up the hill until almost at the t junction and you’ll find the Pavilion on your left (don’t forget parking is before the Pavilion if you’re coming up the hill)
if anyone gets lost ring me (Cat Bush) on 0748483000
No talk in July or August but Ive organised two tours instead. Monday 3rd July tour round High Weald Dairy and Sunday 16th July walking tour round Lewes. full details on the Website.

Willow Workshop
2023-02-04 10:30 - 16:00
In this workshops you will learn basic willow weaving skills. You will cut your own willow stems and make a willow obelisk or peony frame and other smaller objects.
Richard Vidal, is going to be our tutor. He has recently retired from the civil service to spend more time with his passion for all things ‘willow’. He has grown his own willow for 18 years and produces beautiful sculptures, living willow structures, ornaments and baskets. This introductory workshop will cover the growing, harvesting, storage and dipping of dry willow into water to regain its innate flexibility.
Before his retirement Richard sold willow at Blackheath Farmers Market and started to teach willow weaving to community groups so understands the different levels of teaching required dependent on previous experience.
Richard will start the day (indoors if weather inclement) with an introduction to the growing of willow and how to create colourful practical artistic objects. You will then harvest a mixture of red, yellow, green and maroon varieties of willow and create your own garden obelisk, frame or smaller structure. Some people may want to make garden structures outside whilst others may prefer being under cover or inside if cold.
For this workshop please dress warmly: waterproof gloves and leggings are useful and walking boots or wellies essential. Please bring secateurs (though spares are available). If you have a large car or roof rack this will be useful for transporting larger creations. If you can't fit an obelisk in your car we will endeavour to find someone nearby who can deliver it in due course.
Bring a packed lunch. Tea and coffee will be provided.
Please leave your dog at home as it might slow you down in completing your creations, but if you have no dog sitter then you can bring your pet if it is well behaved and quiet.
Richard’s mobile is 07597 939668 and his email is richardhvidal@yahoo.co.uk. He is happy to discuss and explain what to expect at the workshop in more detail and to consider making adjustments for any disabilities or injuries.

Social Thursday & Private Brewery Tour - Limited Tickets
2023-01-26 18:00 - 21:00
Banish the January blues and come along to the first SFTG social event of 2023. Not only is this the first Thursday night social, of 2023, but it is also a great opportunity to have a private tour of one of the most beautiful breweries in the world... come along for a private guided tour of the Brewery at Gun Taproom in Chiddingly.
The Gun Brewery and The Gun Taproom is based the heart of the Sussex Countryside, nestled in a wild flower meadow. This special event is thanks to Tilly of the taproom who is welcoming in SFTG members, where they will be treated to a private tour of their shiny brewing equipment and a fun, fact filled tour led by Chris the enthusiastic brewer. (Not to be confused with THE GUN Pub & Restaurant - This event is at GUN BREWERY which is just up the road!
Your ticket price includes the private SFTG tour, plus two sample drinks of taproom beer or cider, as well as a guaranteed seat and table inside the Taproom. The evening starts from 6pm, for those people who would like to meet beforehand for a social catch up - you are also invited to order from the ever changing, onsite "Food Truck" from 6pm.
For this event French food caterer "Bon Vivant" has been booked to provide the catering.
We understand that not everyone can make the 6pm start time, so to make this work for those who need to work, we won't start the tour until 7pm, (you can eat afterwards if you prefer, although you will need to order your food by 7pm). Please note that food and drink are not included in the cost of your ticket, but your "flight samples" are included. The menu on the night consists of freshly made sweet crepes and savoury galettes to order, as well as Raclette melting cheese dishes with a variety of toppings.
There are very limited spaces (quite literally, due to space), and so this is limited to being booked by SFTG members, (although they can bring a non member so long as they buy the ticket) Please BOOK EARLY to avoid disappointment.
How to find them:
Tip 1: DON’T use the postcode
Tip 2 : Use Google Maps - it has us in the right place
The address: Gun Brewery, Hawthbush Farm, Gun Hill, East Sussex, TN21 0JX

FREE Talk - Protecting Our Rivers and Seas
2023-01-20 19:30 - 21:30
Founded in 2012, Strandliners is an all-volunteer grassroots organisation based in East Sussex. From the River Cuckmere in the west to Dungeness in the east; from Pett Level and Camber Sands on Rye Bay, up the River Rother to Brede and beyond, their cause is to identify the toxic waste they pick and trace it to its source. It’s a cross-community effort with dedicated teams of 6 to 20 volunteers at each event.
Strandliners engages with “polluters” as stakeholders not adversaries. If we work together, we all have a better chance of turning back the plastic tide.
As Executive Director of Strandliners our speaker Andy Dinsdale has been leading riverbank-cleans and beach-cleans since 2004 and regularly represents the organisation at national and international marine conservation conferences.

Friday 20th January at the Goward Hall, Cade Street, Heathfield TN21 9BU. Click here for directions.
Doors open at 7.30 for refreshments and chit-chat; talk starts at 8 pm and finishes at 9 pm or shortly thereafter.
The Half Moon pub opposite the hall is happy to supply ‘take-out’ drinks.
This is event is FREE and NON-MEMBERS ARE WELCOME. Booking is not essential but it is helpful if you book your place so that we can ensure there are enough refreshments, and that we can get in touch should the event be cancelled due to speaker illness or other unforeseen circumstances.

Working with Fibre (from sheep to finished garment) come and see how its done
2023-01-07 10:30 - 12:30
Come and meet Sue on her small holding, Sue has a flock of sheep (Shetland) and is very keen to pass on her numerous ancient craft skills of spinning, dyeing and weaving.
Sue uses her own wool which she can dye using produce from her own garden and then using her own spinning wheels and loom ends up with some fabulous end results.
During the morning Sue will show you around and you will meet the sheep and see the gardening plots as well as seeing how the spinning wheels and looms work.
Hand spinning is a traditional process using fibre and either a spinning wheel or a drop spindle. The ideal fleece for hand spinning has a long staple. The prepared wool will have been washed and carded (combed) so that it is easier to spin. Why do we spin fibre? Spinning creates a twist in the fibre which is consistent. Fibre which has not been twisted in a long length does not have any strength and would break if we tried to use it in any fibre craft.

Tea and Coffee will be provided during the morning, please dress appropriately for a walk around outside.
Sunninglye Farmhouse is a white weatherboard medieval farmhouse at the end of the track (about 200m) with plenty of parking, just keep right on the track and ignore the oust and barn to the left.

Beginners Salami & Chorizo Making Workshop
2023-01-07 10:30 - 12:30
Learn the basics of making a simple salami and chorizo, from the stuffing, to the fermentation process, the curing, and ultimately turn your excess minced meat into a delicious shelf stable product that doesn't need refrigeration. Part of our food security and food independence series of workshops, this introduction to salami making will enable you to preserve excess pork and beef mince into a delicious product at less than 30% of the price.
We will look at the different types of casing for the salami and chorizo, different ways and equipment used to stuff your casings, as well as what flavourings you can use to flavour your meat.
We will then look at how to start the fermentation effectively, and how to cure your product at home without it going mouldy or the skin drying out. Using 500grams of Free Range Yaffingale Pork from Oxford Sandy & Black pigs, you will then make a 250g chorizo, and a 250g salami for you to take home, ferment and cure at home, and you will be eating this product within just 4 weeks. This workshop is designed to give you the knowledge and confidence to make much more at home.
During the duration of the workshop, you will have the opportunity to taste home made salami and chorizo*, made from the same mince you will be using from the rare breed Oxford Sandy & Black free range pigs reared here. Price includes 500grams of free range pork mince, as well as casings, flavourings, and everything you need to make and take home your own produce.
* This workshop is set in a family kitchen environment where cats and dogs have been / are present - Some salami's also contain nuts. Please inform the host of any allergies and do not put yourself at risk.

New member's subscription from now to 31 July 2024
2023-01-05 00:00
If you're just joining us for the first time, then welcome - you're in the right place!
New members can skip the login form and just fill in name, email and phone number below and click the PayPal button to pay a subscription by card or from your PayPal account.
The membership secretary will then contact you very shortly with your membership pack. membership@sftg.org.uk
And once again - a warm welcome to SFTG!
Existing members wishing to renew their subscription should log in then head over to our 'Renewals' page, which you can find here .

FREE: Social Supper & AGM - Bring A Bottle
2022-11-18 19:30 - 22:00
After last year's gloriously good fun Annual General Meeting, we are super excited to see you again this year! This is a great social event, and for those that book their ticket before the 11th November we will provide a gorgeous 3 course meal with soft drinks. (ALL MEMBERS are welcome to book after this date, but the caterer needs final figures by the 11th - so this is the FREE 3 course DINNER cut of date - we cannot guarantee to supply you a dinner if you book after the 11th). Alternatively, if you do not wish to have a meal, please also select the NON MEAL TICKET - this saves the group £25pp, so if you know you aren't going to require feeding, do let us know by booking a non meal ticket.
Doors will open at 7pm - the AGM will start at 7.30pm.
For those booking BEFORE 11th November:
Starter of mixed table nibbles - to include Pitta Bread, Dips and Olives
Main Course - we have selected "Morrocan Tagines"as our theme - we have something for everyone - Lamb Tagine with ginger, rosemary & apricots, Chicken Tagine with preserved lemon, mild harissa & grapes or Vegetable Tagine with carrots, chickpeas, squash & potatoes. They are served with long grain rice and a lettuce salad with red peppers, tomatoes, cucumber, olives & feta cheese.
Dessert - we have Coffee Tia Maria Trifle, Lemon Tarts with cream, Apple & raspberry crumble with custard or cream or Fresh fruit salad of mangoes, crunchy grapes & melon with or without cream.
For those booking AFTER 11th November or Those who DO NO WANT A MEAL:
We will be providing a warm welcome, a group table, free soft drinks including luxury apple and pear juice and teas and coffees. You are welcome to bring a bottle or your own snack.
Non meal tickets are available to book until 10am on the day of the event.
We also supply glasses for wine etc. but you need to bring a bottle! (and perhaps a bottle opener)..
There will be a table for members to bring and sell their produce, so if you would like to sell your wares, please arrive a little bit earlier to set up, and bring some cash if you want to buy on the night.
You will need to book a FREE ticket (below) so that we know to cater for you, as well as put out enough table and chairs.
All members are welcome to this event at the Punnetts Town Village Hall near Heathfield. The AGM will be short and sweet: the committee will report on what the SFTG has been doing during the past year and members will be asked formally to approve the accounts. There will be time for questions of course. Members of the committee and officers will then be elected.

FREE WEBINAR: Funding Sources for Small Farms in The High Weald
2022-10-26 19:00 - 20:30
A webinar with Christine Meadows of the High Weald AONB Partnership.
Christine willl give an introduction to the 'Farming in Protected Landscapes' fund and indicate ways in which it might be used to finance equipment for small farms. She will also touch on other potential sources of funding.
Given the current uncertainty about the future of farm payments it will be good to have a chance to explore other opportunities.
The presentation will last about half an hour followed by up to an hour for questions.
Please register here via eventbrite. There is no charge for this webinar.
Everyone who registers will be emailed a zoom link before noon on Wednesday 26th October. (Please check your spam or junk if you cannot find the zoom link.)

Free Talk - Hemp: what’s all the fuss about?
2022-10-21 19:30 - 21:30
SFTG member Lukas Hogg and his mother Naomi have been growing hemp in East Sussex for four years.

In this talk they will tell us about this plant's many uses across the world, why growing its a good idea and their personal experience of growing it. They will also address government legislation and growing licences.

Friday 21st October at the Goward Hall, Cade Street, Heathfield TN21 9BU. Click here for directions.
Doors open at 7.30 for refreshments and chit-chat; talk starts at 8 pm and finishes at 9 pm or shortly thereafter.
The Half Moon pub opposite the hall is happy to supply ‘take-out’ drinks.
This is event is FREE and NON-MEMBERS WELCOME. Booking is not essential but it is helpful if you book your place so that we can ensure there are enough refreshments, and that we can get in touch should the event be cancelled due to speaker illness or other unforeseen circumstances.

Dehydrating For Beginners - FULLY BOOKED
2022-09-25 10:30 - 13:00
Any questions about this event, please contact Zoe on 07540 633909 or email chair@sftg.org.uk
If you have ever wondered how to dehydrate, what you can dehydrate, and how to do it, Denise has all the answers. An avid dehydrator, she will talk us through why we do it, and how to do it successfully. You will learn how to make delicious Fruit Leathers, tasty Beef Jerky, and your own chilli powder, as well as vegetables for storage - all from the comfort of the kitchen table. You will also learn how to make Denise's own version of a healthy and flavoursome Pot Noodle!
There will be plenty samples and tasting as well as practical hands on experience, lots of discussion and plenty of advice. Full training notes given.

Peg Loom Weaving - Fully Booked
2022-09-25 10:00 - 14:00
Any questions on this event, please contact Zoe on 07540 633909 or email chair@sftg.org.uk
Have you every wanted to make something with your wool? This is a hands on course making a seat cover, working from ' fleece to finished article' in a morning.
You will learn how to weave on a peg loom, which is a simple loom on which you can create 'chunky' articles. You can use wool or re-purpose your old clothes. One of the beauties of this type of weaving, is that the article grows quickly!
If you wish to bring your own fleece, please do so. You can use either raw fleece or wool that has been washed and dried. You will need about 1kg raw wool or 500g washed wool. You can purchase Shetland fleece in natural colours from Owena. Raw unwashed fleece £5. Washed and carded £30-40. You will also need cotton for the warp (minimum 50 m), which Owena will supply at cost if you don't bring your own.
This is going to be great fun, lots of talk, and busy fingers, Owena will supply tea, coffee and cake but bring a packed lunch with you.
If you have a peg loom please say so in the comment box when you book so that SFTG knows how many looms we need to borrow for this workshop!

Make Your Own Sussex Trug in a Day
2022-09-18 09:00 - 17:00
This is an exciting opportunity to build your own Sussex trug in a one day workshop.
Any questions regarding this event, please contact Cliff at meetings@sftg.org.uk
The true Sussex trug is a very durable design that with only a little care will last a lifetime. It is not to be confused with the cheap imitations sold in many outlets today! You will learn how to cut, shave and bend the wooden components and to finish with traditional copper tacks. All wood is grown and coppiced locally.
The true Sussex trug is a very durable design that with only a little care will last a lifetime. It is not to be confused with the cheap imitations sold in many outlets today!
You will learn how to cut, shave and bend the wooden components and to finish with traditional copper tacks. All wood is grown and coppiced locally. To save time on the day the wood will already have been roughly prepared.
This workshop runs from 9 am to (nominally) 5 pm. In the words of our tutor Richard it runs from 9 am to "when we're finished". He likes to make sure everyone leaves with a completed trug!
Please bring your own food and drink. A kettle and drinking water is provided.
This workshop is not suitable for under 18s.

Harvest Bring & Share Picnic - FREE TICKETED EVENT
2022-09-17 12:00 - 16:00
The committee look forward to welcoming all members and their guests to celebrate the end of the "summer of abundance" with our "Bring Your Own Booze - Harvest Bring & Share Picnic". This is always a lovely afternoon where members are invited to bring a savoury, salad, or sweet dish or two to share at the Harvest table. There is always a huge array of different foods, many of which members have grown, reared, or made themselves - so it really is a celebration of our achievements over the year, whether you want to bring a lovely fresh salad, cheese and biscuits, salami, or a lovely sweet treat, all foods are welcome, and we can't wait to see what delights we can share.
Attendance at this event is completely free, but please do book a ticket to let us know if you are bringing either a sweet or savoury dish, or a salad type dish. (Just so we can make sure we have equal amounts of each). If your choose food option says "Sold Out" please choose a different food ticket type.
We will provide basic soft drinks, cutlery, plates and bowls and glasses / cups for the event, please do feel free to free to "Bring a Bottle" - whether this is something alcoholic, or a special soft drink or cordial. Also a chair or blanket for sitting on if you want to eat in comfort.
This year we are delighted to be hosted by Robin Creffield at The Old Farm at Cross in Hand. For directions go to https://www.sftg.org.uk/Locations/the-old-farm/

FREE EVENT: Film Night
2022-09-16 19:30 - 21:15
Our September meeting will be a film night featuring “Feeding the Nation”, a 2010 film about how farming changed forever during the 20th century.
At the outbreak of World War I, farming was on the brink of ruin. By the 1960s, it was thriving once more. Events in Britain and beyond changed agricultural life. After half a century of debts, economic slump and feeding the nation through two world wars, farming emerged much stronger, but it had been changed forever.
Using rare footage, this charming documentary looks back at the age of the family farm. With stories from farm workers and the Land Army, this film is a window into a world that has vanished.
Our film night last year was received very well with those who attended saying we should have one every year. So here it is!
Friday September 16th at the Goward Hall, Cade Street, Heathfield TN21 9BU. Click here for directions.
Doors open at 7.30 pm with the opportunity to have tea/coffee/juice and biscuits before the film at 8.00pm. The film lasts 60 minutes so finish time will be shortly after 9.00pm.
The Half Moon pub opposite the hall is happy to supply 'take-out' drinks.
This is event is FREE and NON-MEMBERS WELCOME. Booking is not essential but it is helpful if you book your free place so that we can ensure there are enough refreshments, and that we can get in touch should the event be cancelled due to speaker illness or other unforeseen circumstances.

SFTG Social Cuppa at The Dolphin Sheep Fair
2022-09-15 09:00 - 14:00
For those selling, buying, or just looking around, the SFTG team will be there with a tea urn, some cakes and a warm welcome. Bring a picnic chair, or a rug, and join us for a mingle with other members, general chat, or just pop by to say hello.
For those that are selling sheep on the day, you may find that there's the odd celebration going on too....

Honey Extraction - Practical Hand on Evening Workshop
2022-09-06 19:00 - 21:00
With thanks to fellow members Ben & Maggi Pratt, this informative workshop will c over all aspects of getting the honey from the hive to the jar. Marketing various products from the hive will also be covered.
This is a good introductory evening for anyone thinking of starting bee keeping and wanting to know more. It is suitable for all levels of knowledge and anyone interested in keeping bees or who enjoys honey will benefit from the experience. After a demonstration there is time for some hands on, you will be using Ben and Maggie's honey room. You will be getting sticky so please bring an apron and wear suitable clothes appropriate for handling food.
A previous participant said: "Excellent evening, I knew nothing about honey production when I arrived and left with a greater understanding and appreciation of the taste, quality and work involved."

Small Small Farmers with The Topping Family
2022-08-31 14:00 - 16:00
Join Rowena & Amos Topping and the rest of the children for their Small Farmers event, where you will meet all of the animals that help then to live as self sufficiently as possible.
You will get the chance to meet all of the animals, feed them, pet them and learn a little bit about how to care for them too. you can meet the Milking Goats, the baby goats, geese, turkeys, chickens, and if you are super lucky, have a ride in the farm trailer.
You are welcome to bring a blanket and a picnic snack to round the event off with a sit down. This event is aimed at 5-15 year olds, adults are required to stay on site, but can sit and have a relax. Under 5's welcome with an accompanying adult at all times
Please note that this is working smallholding, please be aware of hazards at all times.
