Despite the mud, Oak Farm were delighted to return to one of the UKs largest one day shows where they were able to showcase their produce and crafts and were thrilled to win some  horticultural award for their efforts.  

Oak Farm, managed  Bethphage, provides Day Opportunities for adults with learning disabilities in Ditton Priors, Shropshire, where individuals work on the farm daily, participating in numerous activities learning about animal husbandry and horticulture..  

Oak Farm Manager, Ceri Burgess said:

“there has been a real buzz at Oak Farm in the run up to us attending Burwarton. We prepare for our stall months in advance and everyone at Oak Farm loves to get involved. It plays a huge part in our summer activities.”  

This year, Oak Farm were responsible for the hanging baskets and the flowers in the members tents, they provided cut flowers for 50 tables so were busy creating small flower arrangements in addition to the usual work of growing produce and making jams and chutneys to sell.  

Ceri added,  

“Oak Farm are always grateful for the support that we receive from the Burwarton Show. We have been attending for around 20 years so we really do feel part of the farming community here. Having a trade stall at Burwarton gives us a great opportunity, the workers at Oak Farm take such pride in what they do, they love setting up the stall and then talking to people about the work they do at Oak Farm. They also benefit from meeting and chatting to other tradespeople at Burwarton, they can learn from experts about animal husbandry and horticulture. I can’t think of a better way for people to talk about what we do at the farm than by attending an agricultural event and showing off our produce“ 

“We also love to meet new faces, some families have sought us out and chatted to us about options for their children with learning disabilities as often they do not know what is out there for when their children become adults. They often feel reassured to know there are places like Oak Farm for people to learn new skills, socialise and follow their interests in a safe and welcoming environment.”  

Oak Farm were proud recipients of several Women’s Institute horticultural awards including:  

• 1st prize in courgettes  
• 2nd prize in eggs  
• 3rd prize in beans   
• 3rd prize in onions 

All money raised from sales of produce go back into the running of Oak Farm.