Goose Meadow Farming is comprised of three farms - Gore House Farm, Meadow View Farm and Altcar Hall Farm - all of which are part of the Leverhulme Estate in Altcar.

The Edwards family have farmed at Gore House since 1949, growing cereals and potatoes and rearing pigs. In 2002 we took on the tenancy of the adjacent arable farm, Meadow View and also a smaller farm, Altcar Hall..

 The total acreage of the two farms is 650 acres with soil types ranging from peat to sandy clay loam and in some cases, water features. Much of the land was originally under water, but was reclaimed in the 19th century, although some of it seems to be returning to its original state.

Harvesting wheat                                        Planting potatoes

The main crops grown are wheat, potatoes, oats, barley and oilseed rape, with set aside on the less productive (and wet) land.  The potatoes are a variety called Maris Piper and are sold on contract to McCains, where they are processed into oven chips. Some are also sold through a local farm shop. We also rear pigs on the farm.

Recently we have entered the farm into the Countryside Stewardship Scheme and as part of that we have established 6 metre grass strips around the edges of cropped fields and planted new hedges. This is aimed at increasing the available habitat and food supply for wildlife.

Putting tree guards on holly; One in, 1199 to go;  Where shall I put the next one?

Let me help, Dad                                      Right, that's 5 metres planted, only 185m left

The whole of the farm is criss crossed with drainage ditches and these  provide valuable wildlife habitats and hunting grounds for birds such as barn owls.

The Estate upon which we farm is managed for shooting. There are high numbers of hares, pheasant and grey partridge, all of which enjoy the free hospitality on the farm as they take full advantage of any spilt grain or tasty looking crops!