Rural Britain is a wonderful assortment of farms, estates, hamlets, villages, forests and moors, lochs and valleys. Our stunning scenery, close communities and wonderful rural businesses provide an idyllic lifestyle for many, but rural life can also throw up some pretty unique challenges.
The Rural Scene (the Scene & Herd rural blog and news updates) looks at what’s new, what’s relevant, what’s tasty, what’s fun and what’s challenging about life in the Great British Countryside. We offer an insider insight into rural Britain, highlighting some of the exceptional people, businesses and innovations we believe that everybody should know about.
At Aberlady Bay Nature Reserve, not far from Scene & Herd's East Lothian headquarters, around 30,000 pink-footed geese, flock here from Iceland and Greenland each autumn. Quite often, I hear them before I see them. You've undoubtedly seen a V-shaped skein of geese flying overhead, a powerful image of teamwork and efficiency. Did you know they rotate positions within that formation? The lead goose battles the strongest headwinds, taking the brunt of the resistance. When that leader tires, they drop back, and another goose takes their place. This constant rotation allows the entire flock to conserve energy and fly farther, together. It's a beautiful example of distributed leadership, and a powerful metaphor for building a successful business.
READ MOREAs the UK livestock industry looks for more sustainable, cost-effective home-grown protein alternatives, beans are emerging as an excellent option for dairy, beef and sheep. With increasing concerns of exposure to fluctuating global protein markets, the environmental impact of relying on imported protein like soya and the declining supply of UK distillery co-products, British grown beans can offer a practical and sustainable solution.
READ MOREWe've previously mentioned the importance of online reviews to a business's reputation, but what if the review is negative? As a business owner, negative online reviews can feel like a personal attack. However, it's important to realise that these reviews offer valuable opportunities for growth and improvement. By understanding how to respond effectively, you can turn bad feedback into a positive force for your business.
READ MORENorvite proudly honours Colin Beaton, who marks an incredible 50 years with the business. Born in 1957, Colin began his working life as a baker and chef after leaving school. While playing football for Kemnay Amateurs he caught the eye of Alistair Pirie, the Operations Director of the newly established Norvite Feed Supplements and also the Team Manager. Recognising Colin’s exceptional work ethic and team spirit on the pitch, Alistair offered him a role at Norvite – a decision that would shape Colin’s lifelong career.
READ MOREMarch is a bustling month for Scotland's rural communities, offering opportunities for both charitable support and vital knowledge sharing. Here's a look at two key initiatives: RHASS Presidential Initiative Charity Dinner & Auction, and RSABI x The Royal Countryside Fund: Planning for the Future workshops.
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Anna Davies: Email: anna@sceneandherdpr.co.uk
Ross (Monty) Montague: Email: monty@sceneandherdpr.co.uk
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