THE ONLY WAY IS ESSEX
A Bakers Dozen, plus one, took a trip on a train
To Reading they went in the sun and the rain
Where they picked up two cars, to the Rixons they sped
Where they viewed some fine cattle (and were most amply fed!)
‘Lopmede’ are commercial, to be Polled is the key
And some different bloodlines we were able to see
John does not believe in old cows hanging around
Beasts aged over 8 fear that ‘butchers knife ‘sound
The occasional one tugs at the strings of his heart
There’s a plan to stop’ Lilly ‘from his farm to depart!
Day two in the morning was a ‘quacking ‘success
And with some very smart Simmies on view to impress
We learned much about Ducks and how they are reared
If you are one of those....day 45 is to be feared !!
If only cattle gained weight at the rate of a duck
Then as Simmental breeders we would all be in luck .
The Patmore’s were charming giving us precious time
Now we’ll all feel quite different if on duck we should dine !
Our next destination, Beeches Farm , on our list
A fine herd of Simmentals not to be missed
Established for years with such love and care
It was a pleasure so much admiration to share
Janet gave us refreshments received with much glee
A delightfully tasty Cornish Cream Tea
Day three, to the Sapseds, Heathbrow their herd name
With some mouth watering cows of ‘ show circuit’ fame
Then cakes in the garden in the Hertfordshire sun
As they prepared for Newbury...more rosettes to be won
After lunch in a pub..to the family Borlase
Sacombe Simmentals established in those first early days
So many good cattle we were able to see
(it was Sacombe that started up Simmies for me)
We enjoyed viewing the cattle in September sun
And treated to a feast before our visit was done
Anyone previously visiting would well understand
‘Borlase Hospitality’ is legendary grand!
Day four, Newbury show, sadly arriving too late
To see Simmental judging and observing the fate
Of the somewhat depleted numbers there shown
Due to many withdrawn, being forced to stay home
So, after a day at the show we all caught the train
And by late evening were back in Cornwall again
Another successful ‘ club tour ‘now complete
With lovely memories stored of friends that we meet.
Penny Lally. September 2011