Kelvin Fletcher has given an honest account of the challenges and rewards of running a farm with his wife, Liz. The former Emmerdale actor humorously admitted that the simple task of herding sheep often tests their patience and relationship, joking that it “nearly ends up in divorce.”
Explaining their daily struggles, Kelvin shared, “We have got to round all of the sheep up just to get the two that we need [for slaughter].” Liz added, “Rounding sheep never gets easier; you just lose patience,” highlighting the unpredictable nature of farm life.
Kelvin reflected on their mixed experiences: “We have good days and bad days. Sometimes it takes me just five or ten minutes, and the sheep go exactly where I want them to go; other days, they’re not playing ball.” The couple’s teamwork is tested when emotions run high, but they try to keep a sense of humor about it. “When dealing with sheep with your partner, we have an argument, and it nearly ends up in divorce,” Kelvin said, before adding with a smile, “We have started on a good foot today.”
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Liz wryly described their farm routine: “We are just typical farmers now, rowing about sheep,” prompting Kelvin to suggest, “Let’s try to remain friends,” as they shook hands and prepared to continue their work.
Despite the frustrations, the couple managed to load the two sheep destined for slaughter—marking a significant milestone for Kelvin. “These will be the first two livestock we have witnessed being born, reared ourselves, and sent to market. We have seen the whole process. It is quite rewarding, actually,” he reflected.
In a more emotional moment, Kelvin and Liz made the difficult decision to return their much-loved pet lamb, Aga, to the main flock. “It’s the right thing for him, but a day we’ve all been dreading,” Kelvin admitted. Accompanying Aga to the top field, he noted, “Our Aga is more like a dog than a sheep, and we’ve all become very attached to the little guy.”
Watching their daughter Marnie say goodbye, Kelvin said to Liz, “She’s gutted… She’s going to be upset, isn’t she?” Returning to their daily tasks, Kelvin concluded, “That may not have been the most profitable decision I have made today, but family comes first.”
Fletcher’s Family Farm offers an intimate look into the realities of farming life and the balance of work and family, currently available on ITVX.