Almost 2500 people had an ‘unbaalievable’ time at an annual Spring Family Farm Day held at Suffolk Rural College today.
First started in 2019, this free occasion – that takes place in the village of Otley – celebrated its fifth anniversary with a record turn-out.
Guests were able to see new born chickens, ducks, goats, lambs and pigs at the College farm.
Other Suffolk Rural departments also got involved. Horticulture hosted activities based around seeds, inclusive learning organised an Easter egg hunt, the sports team created an obstacle course, beauty staff oversaw face painting and animal studies were on hand to talk about the variety of courses that they offer.
Suffolk Rural is part of Suffolk New College and the events co-ordinator for both of these campuses is Charlotte Rossiter. In terms of the event Charlotte said: “It was a really fun day. You could say it was ‘unbaalievable’. It’s fantastic to put events on like this and welcome the local community into the college. The Spring Day sold out really quickly so for those who couldn’t make this one, we hope they will come and see us later in the year at annual our Big Day Out event in May this year.”
External companies were also involved and they included Queen Bee Coffee and Yum Yum Tree Fudge. Adrian Turner works for Yum Yum Tree Fudge. Adrian said: We have attended (the Spring Day) for the last few years and they are phenomenal. It’s fantastic that the college puts on events like this.”
Mr Casey from Ipswich visited with his family. He said: “I came along because it’s a nice family day out. We all like nature and being outside. It was nice to see the baby animals.”
His daughter, Rose Casey said: “I want to be a farmer in the future. I liked seeing the cows. The college is good.”
Fabio Wahnon from Ipswich brought his family along. Fabio said: “We come every year because we love it. It’s nice to have this family time.”
Students were also involved. Eira Warburton, 18, from Otley is on an animal nursing course. She helped look after the animals. Eira said: “The College is doing a good job – it went really well.”
Vakaris Pocius, 17, from Ipswich is on a level one farming course and he was also on hand to support the farm. Vakaris said: “It’s been a good experience.”