horses, combines replacing binders and artificial fertilizers replacing good old

fashioned muck. However the upland sheep farmer has remained relatively

aloof from this technological revolution for the simple reason that farming sheep

and cattle in this environment cannot be intensified in the same manner as 

lowland agriculture, the thin soil and high altitude impose their own strict limits.

As autumn fades into winter the sheep farming year is just starting. The sales

season is over and shepherds are concentrating on the challenges of the year

ahead and the first task is to gather the flock from the far flung corners of the farm 

and return them to lower ground and they can then settle down into a winter routine.

"Its been a particularly hard winter on the fells and although the Blackie is hardy in

even the severest of winters, the deep drifting snow means that the ewes cannot scrape

it away to get at the grass beneath, fortunately the farmer is delivering much needed

"Emergency Rations". This model is in very good condition, It really needs to be, any dirt 

or stain on this would be so noticeable to spoil the desired effect, it literally sparkles, clean

and tidy, an excellent example, a great Herriot model. Thanks for reading.