Herefordshire Dairy Seeks Community Support to Establish Independent Processing

Wicton Farm, the home of Wild Cow Dairy in Herefordshire, is attempting to raise £47,000 to establish an independent milk processing operation. This move follows the termination of a 25-year contract with its milk buyer, leaving the farm with the choice to either stop dairy farming or process and sell its milk independently.

The farm, which maintains a herd of 50 grass-fed cows milked once daily, has launched a fundraising campaign with a deadline set for August 1, aiming to complete the project by Christmas 2026. The funds will be used to create a dedicated milk processing facility, allowing the farm to produce raw and pasteurised milk, as well as artisan cheese and yoghurt.

Wicton Farm describes itself as a certified organic and antibiotic-free farm that promotes a natural lifestyle for its cows, with calves staying with their mothers. The farm is committed to supporting varied communities, including refugees and apprentices with learning differences.

The project also includes improvements to cow housing, such as replacing existing metal cubicle beds with a larger, deep-bedded straw resting area. The farm plans to move away from relying on milk tanker collections by creating an on-farm collection hub for customers.

Claire Howlett, a partner at the farm, emphasized their goal of raising awareness about the importance of small farms in the future of food production. The initiative is not just about sustaining one dairy farm but also about promoting a different model for local food systems.

Wicton Farm hopes that by processing all its milk independently, it can remain sustainable and closely connected to its consumer base. The campaign reflects their vision of proving that local communities can actively contribute to a healthier, more resilient food system.