A Week on the Estate: Storm Darcy, New Lake & Raw Hands

We remain focussed on a brighter future and we’re equipping our recently renovated properties with Zappi charging stations to support the next generation of sustainably powered vehicles. If you missed the recent feature on the root-and-branch future-proofing of our property portfolio, you can find it in the journal section of our website.

We’re also mindful of our legacy. The next instalment of ‘Our Days’ comes courtesy of 83-year-old Dennis Hotchin of Louth. In the first part of this two-part story, Dennis shares memories of work as an agricultural labourer in the 1950s before National Service with the RAF Regiment put his Lincolnshire life on hold. Getting raw hands from taking mangels to the sheep on frosty mornings was part of the job, as was becoming exceedingly fit in an age before widespread mechanisation.

The lockdown is dragging on but the days are getting longer and the weather will soon improve. Why not oil that bike chain and explore the Lincolnshire Wolds on two wheels? Whether you’re a new cyclist or a seasoned tourer, why not cycle to South Ormsby from home and incorporate one of our ‘Cycling in the Wolds’ routes into your daily exercise routine?

We recommend ‘Ted’s Trail’ as a wonderful introduction to our cycling portfolio. Starting at Ormsby Ring, you will circle South Ormsby Estate and take in spectacular views of the parkland around the 17th-century South Ormsby Hall. This seven-miler then takes you along Bluestone Heath Road from which you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Wolds. Should you tackle the route clockwise, beware of the steep climb out of Tetford!

Finally, the Massingberd-Mundy Lincoln Red beef brand has launched an innovative new product aimed at making the most of our high-quality meat and avoiding waste. The 2.8kg Lincoln Red Beef Offal Box retails at £45 and features five cuts including oxtail (for a hearty and warming oxtail stew), kidney (for a tasty homemade steak & kidney pie) and onglet or hanger steak (a treat usually reserved for the butcher).