Essex now has a Conservation Farm Park thanks to Salvation Army’s Hadleigh Farm Estate

The Salvation Army’s rare breed centre at Hadleigh Farm Estate is putting Essex on the map after being recognised by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) as the county’s only approved ‘Conservation Farm Park’.

Emma Sayer, Hadleigh Farm Rare Breed Centre Manager, said: “We’re so proud to be leading the way for rare breeds in Essex as the only RBST Conservation Farm Park. The whole team of staff and volunteers here are so passionate about our rare breed animals and this is something we have been working towards for the last few years.”

RBST Conservation Farm Parks play an important role in the promotion and development of some of the country’s rarest breeds and are also home to special breeding groups of animals which are managed with help from RBST.

Hadleigh Farm Rare Breed Centre welcomes more than 40,000 visitors each year. The farm cares for more than 100 animals including some of the UK's rarest breeds of goats, pigs and geese. Family fun and education days teach the importance of conservation and help children learn more about looking after animals and wildlife.

Emma continued: “We are committed to looking after our world and we will be working closely with RBST to protect and promote our national and local heritage for the whole community to enjoy.

“As the centre grows we’re looking forward to welcoming even more people to the farm to meet, feed and learn about our wonderful animals.”

Tom Blunt, Field Officer for the RBST, said: “RBST has Conservation Farm Parks throughout the country, and we are delighted to welcome The Salvation Army Hadleigh Farm Rare Breed Centre”

“The farm has a fantastic selection of rare and native breeds, in particular two nice herds of Bagot and Golden Guernsey Goats.”

The rare breed centre is part of The Salvation Army’s Hadleigh Farm Estate which includes Hadleigh Training Centre for adults with additional support needs, Hadleigh Farm Tea Rooms and The Hub visitor’s centre at Hadleigh Park.

For more information about visiting Hadleigh Farm, please visit www.hadleighfarm.org.uk.