Countryfile presenter Matt Baker recently provided an encouraging update on his mother Janice’s health in the aftermath of a distressing sheep accident.
In a special episode of the BBC show, which aired on Sunday, May 4, Matt, alongside co-hosts Adam Henson and Sammi Kinghorn, detailed their unique approach to lambing season, each tending to their respective flocks of sheep.
During the program, Matt revealed the progress of his mother’s recovery from a harrowing incident that took place on the family farm in 2021. Janice had been trampled by the sheep, resulting in a broken leg and necessitating a full knee replacement, following which she was promptly rushed to the hospital.
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Reflecting on the unfortunate event, Matt shared that the family had kept a pedigree flock of lowland Hampshire Downs at the time, but his mother’s physical limitations post-accident led to a pivotal decision. They opted to transition to a new breed of sheep and chose to conduct farming activities outdoors, consequently reshaping their approach to lambing.
“We swapped our pedigree flock of lowland Hampshire Downs, which my mum Janice spent over 25 years rearing, for flocks of hill breeds - Herdwicks and Black Welsh Mountain sheep,” Matt explained.
Discussing the benefits of this transition, Matt highlighted that the Herdwicks' independent nature resulted in a more hands-off lambing season for his mother, effectively easing her responsibilities.
The change in strategy was a resounding success, with Janice expressing her satisfaction with the outcome. “It’s worked out really well. Better than I thought it would,” she remarked.
In conclusion, Matt emphasized his mother’s enduring passion for farming, underscoring that the adapted approach had proven to be a worthwhile endeavor in facilitating her continued pursuit of this passion.
Countryfile can be streamed on BBC iPlayer.