A Wednesday Well Spent: Volunteering with the Belted Galloways

Since starting to volunteer as a 'lookerer' on the Pewley Meadows, Wednesday has been rebranded as 'Cow Day' in my calendar. Never have I had such enthusiasm to get up on a mid-week morning, whatever the weather, on the days when it's my turn to check on the Belted Galloways (and accompanying flock of sheep) currently grazing on the hill.

The Belties are a calm bunch, seemingly unflappable, and can generally be found quietly getting on with grazing, chewing the cud, or having a good old scratch. One memorable morning brought thick ice on the water troughs, necessitating a hammer and chisel to break it open to ensure access to all-important drinking water for the herd; unlike me, they certainly didn't seem bothered by the cold!

It's a pleasure to be in their company - even more so knowing they are doing great things for the meadow, opening up habitats for rare species as they graze. The sheep, mowing up the leftovers, are playing their part too - although trying to count 30 of them as they rove across the field, skittish as you get close, is certainly no mean feat.

Checking on the livestock has been a fantastic way to witness what's happening in nature on Guildford's doorstep - from the sound of the skylarks overhead to the deer you sometimes encounter, stock still in the middle of the field (until they spot you, and make their hasty departure). As the season shifts to spring, I'm looking forward to Wednesday mornings bringing brighter skies and the escalating sounds of the dawn chorus, as well as the company of cattle.

If you'd like to find out more or join next year's 'Lookering' team in Nov 26 - contact Helen Harris at helenlwharris@gmail.com