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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for The Small Farm Training Group
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20221026T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20221026T203000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100740Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100740Z
UID:10000072-1666810800-1666816200@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:FREE WEBINAR:  Funding Sources for Small Farms in The High Weald
DESCRIPTION:A webinar with Christine Meadows of the High Weald AONB Partnership. \nChristine 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.\nGiven the current uncertainty about the future of farm payments it will be good to have a chance to explore other opportunities. \nThe presentation will last about half an hour followed by up to an hour for questions. \nPlease register here via eventbrite.  There is no charge for this webinar.\nEveryone 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.) \n 
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/free-webinar-funding-sources-for-small-farms-in-the-high-weald/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20221021T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20221021T213000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100739Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100739Z
UID:10000071-1666380600-1666387800@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Free Talk - Hemp: what’s all the fuss about?
DESCRIPTION:SFTG member Lukas Hogg and his mother Naomi have been growing hemp in East Sussex for four years. \n\nIn 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.\n \nFriday 21st October at the Goward Hall\, Cade Street\, Heathfield TN21 9BU. Click here for directions. \nDoors open at 7.30 for refreshments and chit-chat; talk starts at 8 pm and finishes at 9 pm or shortly thereafter.\nThe Half Moon pub opposite the hall is happy to supply ‘take-out’ drinks. \nThis 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.
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/free-talk-hemp-whats-all-the-fuss-about/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220925T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220925T130000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100731Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100731Z
UID:10000070-1664101800-1664110800@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Dehydrating For Beginners - FULLY BOOKED
DESCRIPTION:Any questions about this event\, please contact Zoe on 07540 633909 or email chair@sftg.org.uk\nIf 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! \nThere will be plenty samples and tasting as well as practical hands on experience\, lots of discussion and plenty of advice. Full training notes given. \n 
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/dehydrating-for-beginners-fully-booked/
CATEGORIES:SFTG Training Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220925T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220925T140000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100731Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100731Z
UID:10000069-1664100000-1664114400@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peg Loom Weaving - Fully Booked
DESCRIPTION:Any questions on this event\, please contact Zoe on 07540 633909 or email chair@sftg.org.uk  \nHave 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. \nYou 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! \nIf 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. \nThis 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. \nIf 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!
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/peg-loom-weaving-fully-booked/
CATEGORIES:SFTG Training Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220918T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220918T170000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100731Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100731Z
UID:10000068-1663491600-1663520400@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Make Your Own Sussex Trug in a Day
DESCRIPTION:This is an exciting opportunity to build your own Sussex trug in a one day workshop.\nAny questions regarding this event\, please contact Cliff at meetings@sftg.org.uk  \nThe 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. \nThe 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! \nYou 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. \nThis 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! \nPlease bring your own food and drink. A kettle and drinking water is provided. \nThis workshop is not suitable for under 18s.
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/make-your-own-sussex-trug-in-a-day/
CATEGORIES:SFTG Training Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220917T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220917T160000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100731Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100731Z
UID:10000067-1663416000-1663430400@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Harvest Bring & Share Picnic - FREE TICKETED EVENT
DESCRIPTION: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. \nAttendance 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. \nWe 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. \nThis 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/ \n 
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/harvest-bring-share-picnic-free-ticketed-event/
CATEGORIES:Social Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220916T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220916T211500
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100731Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100731Z
UID:10000066-1663356600-1663362900@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:FREE EVENT: Film Night
DESCRIPTION:Our September meeting will be a film night featuring “Feeding the Nation”\, a 2010 film about how farming changed forever during the 20th century.\nAt 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. \nUsing 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. \nOur film night last year was received very well with those who attended saying we should have one every year. So here it is! \nFriday September 16th at the Goward Hall\, Cade Street\, Heathfield TN21 9BU. Click here for directions.\nDoors 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.\nThe Half Moon pub opposite the hall is happy to supply 'take-out' drinks. \nThis 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. \n 
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/free-event-film-night/
CATEGORIES:SFTG Monthly Meetings,Social Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220915T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220915T140000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100730Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100730Z
UID:10000065-1663232400-1663250400@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:SFTG Social Cuppa at The Dolphin Sheep Fair
DESCRIPTION: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.\nFor those that are selling sheep on the day\, you may find that there's the odd celebration going on too....
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/sftg-social-cuppa-at-the-dolphin-sheep-fair/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220906T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220906T210000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100730Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100730Z
UID:10000064-1662490800-1662498000@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Honey Extraction - Practical Hand on Evening Workshop
DESCRIPTION: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.\nThis 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. \nA 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." \n 
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/honey-extraction-practical-hand-on-evening-workshop/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220831T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220831T160000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100730Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100730Z
UID:10000063-1661954400-1661961600@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Small Small Farmers with The Topping Family
DESCRIPTION: 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.\nYou 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. \nYou 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 \nPlease note that this is working smallholding\, please be aware of hazards at all times. \n 
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/small-small-farmers-with-the-topping-family/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220825T173000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220825T190000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100730Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100730Z
UID:10000062-1661448600-1661454000@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Thursdays on the Farm - Small Small Farmers
DESCRIPTION:All small farmers aged 5-15 welcome at this Small\, Small Farmers Summer Holiday event. Have a walk around Debbie's farm\, a glorious 20 acre working smallholding at Pick Hill.\nMeet the sheep\, pigs\, turkeys\, and chickens\, see how to care for them\, and give them their evening dinner. See the polytunnel and vegetable garden where you can pick something that is ripe that week. \nEach week there will be an additional activity to enjoy\, including a scavenger hunt\, natural sculpture making\, and Cyanotype printing. This event is aimed at ages 5-15 who will all need a ticket. Under 5's are welcome to attend with adult supervision\, and the \nParents are welcome to stay on site\, just bring a picnic rug and set yourself up in the field and relax - have a chat and a catch up with other members\, or join the small farmers and have fun on the farm. You are welcome to bring a picnic supper to enjoy on the farm. \nPlease be aware that this is a working farm\, so please use common sense around hazards and animals. Debbie is fully DBS checked.
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/thursdays-on-the-farm-small-small-farmers-4/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220818T173000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220818T190000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100730Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100730Z
UID:10000061-1660843800-1660849200@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Thursdays on the Farm - Small Small Farmers
DESCRIPTION:All small farmers aged 5-15 welcome at this Small\, Small Farmers Summer Holiday event. Have a walk around Debbie's farm\, a glorious 20 acre working smallholding at Pick Hill.\nMeet the sheep\, pigs\, turkeys\, and chickens\, see how to care for them\, and give them their evening dinner. See the polytunnel and vegetable garden where you can pick something that is ripe that week. \nEach week there will be an additional activity to enjoy\, including a scavenger hunt\, natural sculpture making\, and Cyanotype printing. This event is aimed at ages 5-15 who will all need a ticket. Under 5's are welcome to attend with adult supervision\, and the \nParents are welcome to stay on site\, just bring a picnic rug and set yourself up in the field and relax - have a chat and a catch up with other members\, or join the small farmers and have fun on the farm. You are welcome to bring a picnic supper to enjoy on the farm. \nPlease be aware that this is a working farm\, so please use common sense around hazards and animals. Debbie is fully DBS checked.
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/thursdays-on-the-farm-small-small-farmers-3/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220817T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220817T200000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100729Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100729Z
UID:10000060-1660759200-1660766400@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:"Learn How To Milk Goats" Workshop
DESCRIPTION: Join Rowena & Amos Topping as they teach their goat milking skills\, the 9 strong Topping family have been enjoying keeping dairy goats for over a year on their one acre smallholding in Hailsham.  They have two adult dairy goats of different breeds – one is a British Saanen (Willow)\, and the other is a British Toggenburg (Chestnut).  Chestnut had two kids back in March – one male and one female.\nThey milk twice daily\, Dan and the oldest 4 children taking turns on milking duty. The milk is a popular family choice!  \nOnce the kids are weaned the family hope to soon develop a cheese recipe and also become self sufficient in yoghurt. \nOn this beginners milking goat workshop\, you will start with a tour of the goat barn and pasture\, followed by a talk on the basics of keeping dairy goats. This includes information about housing\, nutrition\, health and the actual milking. There will be a demonstration of hand-milking with top tips on the correct set up to ensure calm goat on the milking stand\, and ingenious DIY design of a milking stand. You will then have the chance to try milking one of the goats yourself\, it's harder than it looks to get it right! The workshop also covers how to correctly sterilise dairy equipment\, filter the milk to ensure optimum taste and cool the milk efficiently. \nThe session will start at 6:00pm and finish around 8:00pm - this is to tie in with the evening milking time of the goats. \nTea\, coffee and cake are included. \nThis workshop is running on two dates\, Thursday 30th June and Saturday 6th August\, if when you try to book both dates are full\, please "buy" an interest ticket (FREE) and we will try and put this course on again in July or August.
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/learn-how-to-milk-goats-workshop-3/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220811T173000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220811T190000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100729Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100729Z
UID:10000059-1660239000-1660244400@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Thursdays on the Farm - Small Small Farmers
DESCRIPTION:All small farmers aged 5-15 welcome at this Small\, Small Farmers Summer Holiday event. Have a walk around Debbie's farm\, a glorious 20 acre working smallholding at Pick Hill.\nMeet the sheep\, pigs\, turkeys\, and chickens\, see how to care for them\, and give them their evening dinner. See the polytunnel and vegetable garden where you can pick something that is ripe that week. \nEach week there will be an additional activity to enjoy\, including a scavenger hunt\, natural sculpture making\, and Cyanotype printing. This event is aimed at ages 5-15 who will all need a ticket. Under 5's are welcome to attend with adult supervision\, and the \nParents are welcome to stay on site\, just bring a picnic rug and set yourself up in the field and relax - have a chat and a catch up with other members\, or join the small farmers and have fun on the farm. You are welcome to bring a picnic supper to enjoy on the farm. \nPlease be aware that this is a working farm\, so please use common sense around hazards and animals. Debbie is fully DBS checked.
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/thursdays-on-the-farm-small-small-farmers-2/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220810T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220810T163000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100729Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100729Z
UID:10000058-1660141800-1660149000@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Meet The Member - Rosie
DESCRIPTION:Come have a cuppa and a slice of cake in Rosie's wild flower garden\, whilst meeting her gaggle of lovely geese. An SFTG member and local country girl\, Rosie bought the house and garden after seeing it advertised on our private members forum\, and moved to her new home in June 2021 - (who needs estate agents)\, and has enjoyed spending the last year getting her animals settled in their new home.  \nCome and meet the animals\, including Donkeys\, Sheep\, Geese and Turkeys\, all lovingly cared for in a largely free range huge garden with nature inspired pond\, and relax whilst enjoying the view over the Sussex countryside and catching up with fellow members.
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/meet-the-member-rosie/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220807T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220807T123000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100729Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100729Z
UID:10000057-1659868200-1659875400@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Beginners Guide - Learn How To Keep Hens & Avoid Red Mite
DESCRIPTION:Have you ever thought about having chickens?\nEdwina and Richard Moore have been keeping hens for 30 years and give their hens the deluxe treatment. In this mini workshop you will learn what has worked for them and how they to keep their birds in tip top condition. \n\nThe workshop will cover:  housing - the ideal parameters for poultry and how to keep predators out. Learn what food they need and general routines.  How to handle a hen and hen behaviour.  How to keep them healthy.  Richard is an expert at red mite prevention and will tell you how to keep these pests away and how to reduce infestations to an insignificant number of mites. You will learn how many eggs to expect and how to increase production.\n\nYou will have a chance to view their hen set-up and to ask as many questions as you want over a cuppa and a slice of cake. \nWear outdoor clothes and clean boots.  No dogs please.
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/beginners-guide-learn-how-to-keep-hens-avoid-red-mite/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220806T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220806T200000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100729Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100729Z
UID:10000056-1659808800-1659816000@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:"Learn How To Milk Goats" Workshop
DESCRIPTION: Join Rowena & Amos Topping as they teach their goat milking skills\, the 9 strong Topping family have been enjoying keeping dairy goats for over a year on their one acre smallholding in Hailsham.  They have two adult dairy goats of different breeds – one is a British Saanen (Willow)\, and the other is a British Toggenburg (Chestnut).  Chestnut had two kids back in March – one male and one female.\nThey milk twice daily\, Dan and the oldest 4 children taking turns on milking duty. The milk is a popular family choice!  \nOnce the kids are weaned the family hope to soon develop a cheese recipe and also become self sufficient in yoghurt. \nOn this beginners milking goat workshop\, you will start with a tour of the goat barn and pasture\, followed by a talk on the basics of keeping dairy goats. This includes information about housing\, nutrition\, health and the actual milking. There will be a demonstration of hand-milking with top tips on the correct set up to ensure calm goat on the milking stand\, and ingenious DIY design of a milking stand. You will then have the chance to try milking one of the goats yourself\, it's harder than it looks to get it right! The workshop also covers how to correctly sterilise dairy equipment\, filter the milk to ensure optimum taste and cool the milk efficiently. \nThe session will start at 6:00pm and finish around 8:00pm - this is to tie in with the evening milking time of the goats. \nTea\, coffee and cake are included. \nThis workshop is running on two dates\, Thursday 30th June and Saturday 6th August\, if when you try to book both dates are full\, please "buy" an interest ticket (FREE) and we will try and put this course on again in July or August.
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/learn-how-to-milk-goats-workshop-2/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220804T173000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220804T190000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100726Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100726Z
UID:10000054-1659634200-1659639600@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Thursdays on the Farm - Small Small Farmers
DESCRIPTION:All small farmers aged 5-15 welcome at this Small\, Small Farmers Summer Holiday event. Have a walk around Debbie's farm\, a glorious 20 acre working smallholding at Pick Hill.\nMeet the sheep\, pigs\, turkeys\, and chickens\, see how to care for them\, and give them their evening dinner. See the polytunnel and vegetable garden where you can pick something that is ripe that week. \nEach week there will be an additional activity to enjoy\, including a scavenger hunt\, natural sculpture making\, and Cyanotype printing. This event is aimed at ages 5-15 who will all need a ticket. Under 5's are welcome to attend with adult supervision\, and the \nParents are welcome to stay on site\, just bring a picnic rug and set yourself up in the field and relax - have a chat and a catch up with other members\, or join the small farmers and have fun on the farm. You are welcome to bring a picnic supper to enjoy on the farm. \nPlease be aware that this is a working farm\, so please use common sense around hazards and animals. Debbie is fully DBS checked.
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/thursdays-on-the-farm-small-small-farmers/
CATEGORIES:SFTG Training Courses,Social Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220731T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220731T120000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100726Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100726Z
UID:10000053-1659261600-1659268800@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Beginners Pressure & Water Bath Canning Workshop
DESCRIPTION: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). \nThis 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\, although this course will also cover the Presto Pressure Canner. \nDuring the workshop you will learn when to use the water bath canner\, when to use a pressure canner\, the basics of water bath\, and pressure canning\, how to raw pack\, and how to hot pack. You will look at the types of jars and lids to use when water bath\, and pressure canning\, as well as the best foods to pressure can. You will learn how to can a variety of foods including fresh vegetable and raw meat\, as well as meals in jars. (cans) This workshop focuses on safely canning\, as well as top tips for the Do's and Don'ts of Canning. \nThis workshop forms part of our Food Security & Food Independence series\, designed to help you become more self sufficient with your food options. \nYou will be given the chance to sample pressure canned\, shelf stable foods during the workshop if you wish to. \n* This workshop is set in a family kitchen environment where cats and dogs have been / are present - please inform the host of any allergies. \nCan'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.
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/beginners-pressure-water-bath-canning-workshop/
CATEGORIES:SFTG Training Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220731T070000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220731T160000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100726Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100726Z
UID:10000052-1659250800-1659283200@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Hay Making Festival - Sunday - Making Hay While the Sun Shines
DESCRIPTION:The SFTG is organising a hay making weekend (30/31st July) using traditional techniques. A scything workshop for beginners will be taught on the Saturday and then on the Sunday beginners and anyone else who would like to come and make hay will start scything (the more the merrier!).  Austrian scythes are great for cutting grass but they are also incredibly good for tidying up areas of nettles\, thistles\, docks etc so even if you don’t have a hay meadow it’s a great technique for all smallholders to learn.  There has also recently been a resurgence in the use of the English scythe. Marie-Angel Chevrier has kindly offered to host the event on her farm at Horsham. We would like to make this quite a large event – we plan to invite Frank Wright to teach how to scythe and you will be able to purchase a scythe on the day if you do not already own one\, but if there is enough demand\, we could also ask more teachers to come and assist.  On the Sunday Marie-Angel will talk about sustainability and diversity\, and we will learn how to use a small hand baler and how to build a hay rick.  Marie-Angel has said we can camp overnight\, if you would like to do so please talk to her ( 07875 628554).  We will be offering a discounts of £5 to couples but as our website struggles with this - it will be a cash refund on the day. \nThere is a separate website booking page for Saturday. \nDay 2 Sunday 31st July  \nLearning to make hay while the sun shines!  \n7 am Hay mowing and demonstration of the English scythe to make hay by Terry Standen (if you can't make it this early\, come as early as you can as hay making is best when the grass is still dewy) \n10 am Tea break (cold drinks will be provided) \n10 15 am Raking the hay \n11 am Lunch (SFTG will provide cold drinks and a ploughman's lunch) \n12 pm Talk and demonstration on hay making by hand by Marie-Angel Chevrier \n3 to 4pm Demonstration and practice of raking\, protecting from rain\, A frame usage for drying\, Rick building principles and of our hand hay baler by Frank Wright who built it. \nIf you are a member and want to borrow or buy a scythe please book the appropriate ticket and you will be contacted.  Marie-Angel can advise on what you need. Scythes seem expensive (approximately £140-£180) but are incredibly useful for tidying up areas such as nettles\, dock\, thistles and other weeds.  We will be buying them from Simon Fairlie.  He has promised to give us a discount and we will pass some of this on to you.  Look at his website http://www.thescytheshop.co.uk/index.html  We need to put our order in by the beginning of July so you need to book your place early if you want to borrow or buy a scythe. \n  \n 
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/hay-making-festival-sunday-making-hay-while-the-sun-shines/
CATEGORIES:SFTG Training Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220730T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220730T170000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100726Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100726Z
UID:10000051-1659171600-1659200400@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Hay Making Festival - Saturday - Learn How to Scythe
DESCRIPTION:The SFTG is organising a hay making weekend (30/31st July) using traditional techniques. A scything workshop for beginners will be taught on the Saturday and then on the Sunday beginners and anyone else who would like to come and make hay will start scything (the more the merrier!).  Austrian scythes are great for cutting grass but they are also incredibly good for tidying up areas of nettles\, thistles\, docks etc so even if you don’t have a hay meadow it’s a great technique for all smallholders to learn.  There has also recently been a resurgence in the use of the English scythe. Marie-Angel Chevrier has kindly offered to host the event on her farm at Horsham. We would like to make this quite a large event – we plan to invite Frank Wright to teach how to scythe and you will be able to purchase a scythe on the day if you do not already own one\, but if there is enough demand\, we could also ask more teachers to come and assist.  On the Sunday Marie-Angel will talk about sustainability and diversity\, and we will learn how to use a small hand baler and how to build a hay rick.  Marie-Angel has said we can camp overnight\, if you would like to do so please talk to her ( 07875 628554).  We will be offering £5 discounts and to couples but as our website struggles with this - it will be a cash refund on the day. \nThere is a separate website booking page for Sunday. \nThis is the programme for Saturday 30th July. Learning to Scythe & pasture management principles with the Scythe \n9 am Introduction to the scythe and it’s handling\, Austrian vs English\, Assembly\, Honing\, Handling technique\, Peening\, Maintenance.  \n1 pm Lunch (SFTG will provide a ploughman's lunch and cold drinks) \n2 pm Pasture management with the scythe talk by Marie-Angel Chevrier \n3 to 5 pm  Practice \nIf you are a member and want to borrow or buy a scythe please book the appropriate ticket and you will be contacted.  Marie-Angel can advise on what you need. Scythes seem expensive (approximately £140-£180) but are incredibly useful for tidying up areas such as nettles\, dock\, thistles and other weeds.  We will be buying them from Simon Fairlie.  He has promised to give us a discount and we will pass some of this on to you.  Look at his website http://www.thescytheshop.co.uk/index.html  We need to put our order in by the beginning of July so you need to book your place early if you want to borrow or buy a scythe. \n  \n 
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/hay-making-festival-saturday-learn-how-to-scythe/
CATEGORIES:SFTG Training Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220730T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220731T235900
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100726Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100726Z
UID:10000050-1659139200-1659311940@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Hay Making Festival -draft - dates either 23/24th July or 30/31 July 2022
DESCRIPTION:The plan is : Saturday - beginners teaching day for setting up and using scythes - so scythes and blades must be available for purchase\nSunday: Hay making.  we need to start early (before the dew evaporates) so there is a possibility of camping overnight. \nCosts and tutors being sorted by Marie. She has promised to come back mid-Feb
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/hay-making-festival-draft-dates-either-23-24th-july-or-30-31-july-2022/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220730T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220731T235900
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100726Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100726Z
UID:10000055-1659139200-1659311940@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Hay Making Festival -draft - dates either 23/24th July or 30/31 July 2022
DESCRIPTION:The plan is : Saturday - beginners teaching day for setting up and using scythes - so scythes and blades must be available for purchase\nSunday: Hay making.  we need to start early (before the dew evaporates) so there is a possibility of camping overnight. \nCosts and tutors being sorted by Marie. She has promised to come back mid-Feb
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/hay-making-festival-draft-dates-either-23-24th-july-or-30-31-july-2022-2/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220723T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220723T173000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100725Z
UID:10000049-1658584800-1658597400@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Willow Workshop - Making Dragonflies
DESCRIPTION:In this workshops you will learn basic willow weaving skills and make a dragonfly.  This workshop is suitable for children over 12 but they need to be accompanied by an adult. \nRichard 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. \nBefore 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 of working with willow. \nRichard will start the day (indoors if weather inclement) with an introduction to the growing of willow.  You will then create your own dragonfly in stages after relevant demonstrations. You may also have time to make a star or a heart. \nFor this workshop please bring secateurs (though spares are available) and dress appropriately. \nTea and coffee will be provided but bring a snack if you think you will be hungry! \nPlease 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. \nRichard’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. \nCan'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. \n  \n 
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/willow-workshop-making-dragonflies/
CATEGORIES:SFTG Training Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220720T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220720T203000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100725Z
UID:10000048-1658341800-1658349000@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Meet the Member Becky & Pete Jenner
DESCRIPTION:Becky and Pete moved from Brighton to Misty Acres at Lower Horsebridge just over a year ago. Having found the Small Farm Training Group\, both of them have been enjoying some of our workshops and events and are rapidly becoming part of their new countryside community. Becky is showing a real love and passion for flower growing\, and Pete is loving embracing everything else! \n\nThey are throwing open their garden for us to have a little get together over an evening cuppa\, show us the progress they have made so far\, and what plans they have for the future. Maybe some of us can even offer some help and advice?\n\nThis is what Becky has to say:\n"We have about half an acre of garden which was extremely overgrown and neglected for some time. Becky's grand idea was to start a small flower farming business. Pete's grand idea was to have chickens\, bees and grow veg. Tom and Barbara we are not though - with lots of enthusiasm\, hard work and experiential learning  we do now have some flowers and veg to show for our efforts - hurrah! Come and see what we have been up to but don't come expecting to get any tips and advice! Unless you want to know how not to do it! :)"
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/meet-the-member-becky-pete-jenner/
CATEGORIES:SFTG Training Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220716T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220716T170000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100725Z
UID:10000047-1657983600-1657990800@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Strawberry Tea - cancelled as the fox has taken all the strawberries!
DESCRIPTION:Last year we visited Tess and Simon Gray and it was so enjoyable that they have invited us again. We started the afternoon eating homegrown strawberries along with strawberry jam and scones (which are Simon's speciality!) It was such fun sitting outside scoffing scones and catching up with everyone after a miserable Covid winter.\nTess and Simon used to grow strawberries for sale at the farm gate and Pick Your Own.  Now they just grow them for family and friends - and of course we are friends! They will tell you how to get started if you want to grow them for profit\, or if it is just for yourself  which varieties to grow and how to care for your plants and protect them from any vermin that also like strawberries! \nAs well as a productive strawberry plot Tess and Simon also grow lots of vegetables\, fruit and flowers.  Tess is a keen flower arranger so come and see which plants make for pretty arrangements\, she usually has beautiful sweet peas\, roses and dahlias.  There is always a bit of a competition between the tomatoes and vegetables grown in Simon's greenhouse and those that Tess grows in the new greenhouse - so come and see who is winning this year. \nAfter walking round the garden we will probably walk through part of the Gray's 90 acre farm and admire their ponds\, hedges and pasture.  We may also see sheep as their land is let to a local shepherd. \nThis Event is Cancelled Because a Fox has Stolen all the Strawberries and there are None Left for SFTG!
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/strawberry-tea-cancelled-as-the-fox-has-taken-all-the-strawberries/
CATEGORIES:SFTG Training Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220715T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220715T213000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100725Z
UID:10000046-1657913400-1657920600@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:FREE TALK:  Wildlife and Farming - The Next Decade
DESCRIPTION:(This meeting was postponed from February)Our speaker\, Martin Hole\, farms at Montague on the wetlands of the Pevensey Levels in East Sussex. Part family-owned and part rented\, the 300ha (740acres) organic enterprise provides a home to about 150 cattle and nearly 2\,000 head of sheep\, with a small diversification into residential property and a fledgling green tourism business. \nMontague is also home to 216 species of birds and 120 of flies as well as thousands of wild flowers. A long-standing relationship with Natural England has yielded a partially enwilded landscape with many developing habitats. \nA former RSPB UK Lapwing Champion\, Martin remains fascinated by the provision of wilderness whilst trying to keep the farm intact for his three daughters\, this is a fascinating talk detailing how he does and it's throughly enjoyable.  \n \nFriday 18th February at the Goward Hall\, Cade Street\, Heathfield TN21 9BU. Click here for directions. \nDoors open at 7.30 for refreshments and chit-chat; talk starts at 8 pm and finishes at 9 pm or shortly thereafter.\nThe Half Moon pub opposite the hall is happy to supply ‘take-out’ drinks. \nThis 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.
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/free-talk-wildlife-and-farming-the-next-decade-2/
CATEGORIES:SFTG Training Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220703T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220703T170000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100725Z
UID:10000045-1656860400-1656867600@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Meet the members Simon and Rachael Bishop
DESCRIPTION:Simon and Rachael have lived on their 28 acre smallholding near Heathfield for 12 years and joined the SGTG in 2011. They run a business in Tunbridge Wells and the farm is run in their “spare” time. The majority of the ground is permanent pasture that is grazed by their sheep. Other livestock that they keep are Pigs (although currently they are all in the freezer) Geese\, Chickens for eggs and meat\, bantams\, turkeys and a Shetland pony called Bovril. They are keen beekeepers with 5-6 hives currently. 5 years ago they bought an adjoining Victorian walled garden that was completely rundown and overgrown with brambles and trees 6-8 feet high. This is now a productive flower and vegetable garden. Simon and Rachael are about 90% self-sufficient on meat and vegetables.
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/meet-the-members-simon-and-rachael-bishop/
CATEGORIES:SFTG Training Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220630T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220630T200000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100708Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100708Z
UID:10000044-1656612000-1656619200@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:"Learn How To Milk Goats" Workshop
DESCRIPTION: Join Rowena & Amos Topping as they teach their goat milking skills\, the 9 strong Topping family have been enjoying keeping dairy goats for over a year on their one acre smallholding in Hailsham.  They have two adult dairy goats of different breeds – one is a British Saanen (Willow)\, and the other is a British Toggenburg (Chestnut).  Chestnut had two kids back in March – one male and one female.\nThey milk twice daily\, Dan and the oldest 4 children taking turns on milking duty. The milk is a popular family choice!  \nOnce the kids are weaned the family hope to soon develop a cheese recipe and also become self sufficient in yoghurt. \nOn this beginners milking goat workshop\, you will start with a tour of the goat barn and pasture\, followed by a talk on the basics of keeping dairy goats. This includes information about housing\, nutrition\, health and the actual milking. There will be a demonstration of hand-milking with top tips on the correct set up to ensure calm goat on the milking stand\, and ingenious DIY design of a milking stand. You will then have the chance to try milking one of the goats yourself\, it's harder than it looks to get it right! The workshop also covers how to correctly sterilise dairy equipment\, filter the milk to ensure optimum taste and cool the milk efficiently. \nThe session will start at 6:00pm and finish around 8:00pm - this is to tie in with the evening milking time of the goats. \nTea\, coffee and cake are included. \nThis workshop is running on two dates\, Thursday 30th June and Saturday 6th August\, if when you try to book both dates are full\, please "buy" an interest ticket (FREE) and we will try and put this course on again in July or August.
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/learn-how-to-milk-goats-workshop/
CATEGORIES:SFTG Training Courses
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20220626T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20220626T150000
DTSTAMP:20260406T213744
CREATED:20231026T100708Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T100708Z
UID:10000043-1656244800-1656255600@sftg.org.uk
SUMMARY:Midsummer Members BBQ
DESCRIPTION:This years Mid-Summer BBQ is being graciously hosted by Pauline & Colin Burnett-Dick on their stunning farm in Hartfield\, right on the edge of the Ashdown Forest. This is a wonderful opportunity to mingle with fellow members\, meet new ones\, and generally have a good old catch up whilst enjoying the stunning grounds of their lovely home. As usual we will be eating gorgeous food\, sourced locally\, and often supplied by one or two of our members\, so you know the food will be good!\n \nAs well as a lovely meet up\, there will be a tour of the grounds\, you will get to meet the famous Rheas\, view the vegetable polytunnel\, see the growing garden\, as well as watch the chickens & ducks enjoying the water.  For those that are feeling brave\, the outdoor swimming pool will be open\, so bring our swimwear and a towel\, and jump straight in! \n \nThe BBQ is a subsidised members (and their families) event\,  ticket are £5 per person. (You are welcome to bring a non member as a paying guest\, but they do need to come with a member). \n\nSoft drinks will be provided but please bring your own wine\, beer etc as required. \n*Please use the Comment box when booking to tell us about any vegetarian or other dietary requirements
URL:https://sftg.org.uk/event/midsummer-members-bbq/
CATEGORIES:SFTG Training Courses,Social Events
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR