Birches Farm is an historic farmstead lying between Kington and Eardisley, in Northwest Herefordshire. The 60 acre farm features species-rich grasslands, traditionally managed hedgerows and several old farm ponds, set in rolling countryside, with stunning views in all directions.

The farm has been owned by the same family for over 100 years and managed using traditional low-intensity farming methods. This has produced an area of outstanding wildlife value.

The good news is that we have secured the short-term future of the farm with help from the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation. We're now faced with the enormous challenge of raising almost £1.5 million to buy and restore these important wildlife habitats and historic farms buildings.

In May 2014, Herefordshire Wildlife Trust celebrated being awarded funding of £68,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF). This is against the overall development costs of £88,590 to carry out the stage 1 or development phase of the Birches Farm Heritage Project.

The development phase will involve a wide range of consultation, investigation, feasibility and survey works, the results of which will be collated and used for the preparation of the full project or stage 2 application to HLF. Some of this money will be going towards employing a Project Officer to oversee this crucial phase of the project.

We are tremendously excited to have been given this opportunity by HLF.  There is no doubt that the next 9 months, or so, will involve a great deal of intensive work in order to produce the quality of application needed for stage 2.

 SALE OF THE 2 FARM HOUSES

The Wain House an attractive, converted barn, has been sold for £225,000.

The Victorian Farm House - At the end of March 2014 a cash offer of £250,000.00 was made for the purchase of the freehold of the Victorian Farm house.  This has been accepted by the Trustees.

The sale of the houses will enable us to repay a considerable amount of the £825,000.00 loan from the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation.

We are seeking support from individuals, grant bodies and funders but please send your donation now - your help is vital.

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