The Small Farm Training Group

SFTG Quiz Night - CANCELLED!!!!!
2023-04-17 18:15 - 21:00 (Europe/London)
sadly lambing and Easter holidays meant we didn’t get enough interest to run the quiz in April, but it will be bigger and better in October. Watch this space for the new date !
A free quiz with prizes!!!!!
You Thank you to the Lakedown brewery and taproom for hosting this private event for us, Cat has arranged a super fun quiz night hosted by professional quiz master Terry. Taking place on Monday April 17th, you can have teams of 2/3/4 people, or simply join a team when you get there.
Lakedown tap room will be supplying beer and wine from 6.30 onwards, and the quiz will start at 7pm. This is a really fun quiz, (anyone who is part of the Framfield and Blackboys allotment society will know what a great quizmaster Terry is), and the questions are very much geared towards the life of a smallholder, the SFTG as well as some general knowledge.
Lakedown Tap Room is a gorgeous venue, a beautiful place which we are lucky enough to have exclusive use of for the night. The Tap Room are very kindly donating a mini keg (about 7pints) of a beer of their choice to the winner, …..and SFTG is giving a bottle of wine (or another mini keg). So, lots of reasons to come. The quiz night is free to book - and we promise you’ll laugh! There will be some food available on the night provided for free from SFTG funds, and if you would like to book something extra to eat, you can email helen@lakedownbrewing.com who will be providing sharing platters for you to purchase. This is a new event for us, and one we would love to make an annual social event, so please come and support it if you can.
Lakedown Trout Fishery, Swife Ln, Burwash, Mayfield, Heathfield TN21 8UX

Willow Workshop - Spheres/Willow Objects
2023-04-15 10:30 - 16:00
In this workshops you will learn basic willow weaving skills.
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.

An Introduction to Bee-Keeping
2023-04-15 10:00 - 15:00
Have you always fancied keeping bees? Would you like to find out more about bee keeping, but you're unsure where to start? If that sounds like you, then this course is the perfect place to start your journey, and fellow members Ben & Maggi are here to help you.

Today, more and more people are aware of the vital role bees play in our eco-system, perhaps you're interested in keeping bees to do your but to help support them and the environment more broadly. But keeping bees isn't just about giving nature a helping hand. Beekeeping can be a hugely stimulating and rewarding hobby - not to mention the possibility of gathering and enjoying your own honey to enjoy!
Guidance from real experts - Ben and Maggi - known as The Bee People - are widely regarded for their expertise in beekeeping and have been doing so for over 35 years. Ben is a former Chairman and President of the Sussex Beekeepers Association, and his wife Maggi, is a former Chairman of the Eastbourne Beekeepers. Their website - www.thebee-people.co.uk is a great resource for all things bee-related.
A full day - both theory and hands-on - Ben and Maggi will spend the morning taking you through the life in a beehive, also looking at the practicalities of starting out in beekeeping.
Following a lunch (you'll need to bring your own, tea and coffee will be supplied), in the afternoon, you'll get kitted up with the requisite protective gear and go and have a look at the hives. We'll supply all the equipment you need, and we'll provide guidance on what to wear on the day, but please come prepared by wearing wellington boots and stout clothing.
PLEASE NOTE NO BANANAS TO BE BROUGHT ON SITE AND PLEASE DO NOT WEAR AFTERSHAVE OR PERFUME.
Please note: the visit to the hives in the afternoon is, to some extent, weather dependent. If it is too cold or wet, this may not be possible.
This is a fantastic opportunity to take your first steps toward the wonderful world of bees. Tickets are strictly limited, and at just £35 for members, represent really great value for money. And, if you're not a member, why not join now - you'll save the cost of membership on this one course!

Small Small Farmers meet the Lambs
2023-04-08 10:00 - 12:00
Come and join Debbie and meet the lambs on her farm in Horam.
This is an ideal event for our younger farmers and children to see that lambs up really close, and maybe even bottle feed a few of them. The Lambs are expected from early March onwards. there will be at newly born lambs to hold, feed and watch. She will be able to answer any lambing related questions our small, small farmers have too.
This is a working smallholding, so please dress in old clothes, and wear wellies. Free range sheepdog to pet too.
A small small farmers event for children ages 5 and over and their adults. Children must be accompanied please. NB. Debbie has many years experience working in education with young children and is DBS checked.

Getting The Most From Your Polytunnel
2023-04-02 10:30 - 12:30
Join fellow member Denise in her polytunnel on her smallholding in Chiddingly as she explains how she puts her polytunnel to the best use. This is a beginners workshop aimed at helping you get the most from your polytunnel. Whether you have a large or small polytunnel they are an unbelievably valuable resource in your garden/smallholding and can allow you to grow fruit and veg for most of the year.

We will look at planning month by month to allow maximum use of your beds, companion planting, ideas for using every area in your polytunnel, the ethics of permaculture in our polytunnel and how to apply it together with sharing of ideas.
You will also have a tour of Denise's polytunnels, and her vegetable gardens where she aims to grow all of her own produce that she then uses for preserves and chutneys.

An Introduction to Smallholding
2023-03-25 12:00 - 16:00
Perhaps you're about to take over a smallholding? Or are you relatively new to keeping land and animals? If so, perhaps you feel you'd like to talk the issues through with others in the same boat, and with someone who's been doing it for a while? If that sounds like you, then our "Introduction to Smallholding" workshop is just the thing for you.
Come and spend the afternoon finding out what smallholding entails from a practical perspective, as you visit this 7 acre plot. Paul Lovatt Smith has been working on the land for over 15 years, and has a wealth of knowledge that he's happy to share, including:

How to get started - we know it's all a bit overwhelming at first
What's involved with the paperwork and legal aspects, as well as the finances
A basic overview of keeping poultry, sheep, cattle and pigs
Growing veg
Making hay and growing small-scale cereals

Please note: this course will be held outdoors (and partly in a barn) - so please do wear suitable outdoors clothing, bearing in mind that this is England - it may well be cold and damp (or warm and sunny, boiling and dry, windy and snowing... you get the picture).
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.

Free Talk - Biodynamic Farming + Land Healing with Homeopathy
2023-03-24 19:30 - 21:30
Always wanted to know more about Biodynamic practices and what it involves? How does it even work? Come and meet long time fellow member Dr Joanna Gore and learn how her and her carpenter husband Paul are transforming their farm with Biodynamic Farming. Joanna will be running a workshop for us later in the year teaching us all in depth, so this Free Friday night talk is a good introduction to see if this could be the right approach for you.
Biodynamic 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.
Our social events co-ordinator Cat Bush and her team are delighted to be offering free tea and coffee at this events, as well as a light snack buffet. There will be time at the end for questions, and of course a good catch up with other members.
There is a fully staffed bar at this event - so bring cash or a card to pay for your drinks.
As with all of our SFTG events for 2023, we do require you to book a ticket online. (If anyone is having hardship with booking online due to a rural wifi or similar, please do call Cat and she will book your ticket to ensure to cater enough food for you.)
Cat Bush can be contacted on: 07484 830000

Willow Workshop - Fruit Bowls/Basic Baskets
2023-03-11 10:30 - 16:00
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.
