Harvest 2024
Harvest Heptathlon 2024
As part of our Harvest Thanksgiving, we participated in a service at St. Peter's Church with Reverend Liz. Some of our children became Franciscan monks for the service. Classes also led us with prayers, poetry and song!
We collected Food Bank donations for Blackburn Food Bank. All sponsorship received for the children's heptathlon will be donated to the Bishop's Harvest Heptathlon appeal.
We also sold rice to support the 90kg Rice Challenge. All proceeds will help to provide secondary education in Malawi and ensure a fair price is paid to the Malawian farmers.
Bishop's Harvest Heptathlon
Blackburn, Lancashire – October 29, 2024 – The Rt Revd Philip North, Bishop of Blackburn, completed a remarkable day-long “Harvest Heptathlon” across the Blackburn Diocese, aiming to raise awareness of issues faced by farming communities and garnering support for the 2024 Harvest Appeal. In a whirlwind itinerary, Bishop Philip visited seven farms, with two bonus stops at a Church of England school, and a local farmer's auction. This ambitious tour was designed not only to connect with local farmers but also to highlight the challenges and dedication inherent in rural life.
The 2024 Harvest Appeal will support education initiatives in Multan, Pakistan, one of Blackburn’s Link Diocese. “Through the Harvest Heptathlon, we wanted to build a bridge between our own rural communities and those we’re supporting in Pakistan,” Bishop Philip explained. “The day offered a powerful reminder of the faith, resilience, and community support that define our Diocese.”
Highlights of the day included:
Milking at Dawn: Bishop Philip’s first stop was Bolton Fold Farm in Mellor, where he joined James and Sarah Seedall in the morning’s milking routine. Together, they discussed the trials and rewards of dairy farming, from financial pressures to the personal dedication it requires.
Alpacas and Mental Health: At Wood End Farm in Dunsop Bridge, Bishop Philip was introduced to Alison and Janet’s alpaca farm, where animals are integrated into their mental health and tourism efforts, serving as both therapy animals and attractions for local events.
Farmhouse Cheese Production: At Butlers Farmhouse Cheese at Wilson Fields Farm, Bishop Philip observed the family’s artisan cheese-making process, guided by third-generation cheesemaker Gill Hall. He learned about their journey to rebuild after a major fire in 2023, showcasing the resilience needed to sustain a local dairy farm.
Community Conversations at Brock Auction: During a working breakfast at Brock Auction, Bishop Philip met with local farmers and Rev. Andrew Wilkinson to discuss the role of community in supporting rural life. Topics included the 2016-founded Field Nurse Trust, a health initiative aimed at addressing the needs of farmers in rural areas.
Salt Marsh Lamb at Bank End Farm: Meeting with Rev Gary Lewis and farmers Stuart and Caroline Lawson, Bishop Philip explored Bank End Farm’s specialized salt marsh lamb, a product of their unique tidal terrain. This visit illustrated how traditional farming practices adapt to unique environmental challenges.
Robotic Milking Systems in Dolphinholme: Bishop Philip then visited Newland Home Farm to observe how the Morley family uses robotic milking technology, combining innovation with traditional farming values to increase efficiency while prioritizing animal welfare.
School Visit at Dolphinholme Church of England School: Bishop Philip’s quick stop at the local school included a performance of the school song by students, giving him a glimpse of the values instilled in future generations in these farming communities.
Botton Head Farm in Lowgill: Bishop Philip’s journey then took him to the picturesque and remote Botton Head Farm, where Rev. Jane Lee introduced him to Andrew Taylor and his family. Here, Bishop Philip experienced traditional farming life, helping to feed the cattle and listening to Andrew’s reflections on the investment they have made to work in harmony with the environment, seasonal farming challenges and the isolation that accompanies their location.
Pumpkin Picking at Greenland’s Farm Village: Ending the day, Bishop Philip visited Greenland’s Farm Village in Carnforth, where he joined visitors in pumpkin picking and met with farm staff to discuss their efforts to reconnect families with the sources of their food.
Reflecting on the Harvest Heptathlon, Bishop Philip remarked, “I was deeply moved by the stories, strength, and warmth I encountered. Our farming communities are integral to both our local heritage and our Diocese, and this journey affirmed the critical role they play in our lives. I was so impressed by their resilience and imagination and all they do to bring food to our tables; they are an inspiration to us.”
Bishop Philip’s Harvest Heptathlon underscored the church’s commitment to supporting the Diocese of Blackburn’s rural communities while bringing attention to pressing agricultural issues. Funds raised from this year’s Harvest Appeal will empower educational projects in Multan, creating a meaningful connection between Lancashire and Pakistan.
