youngsRPS Rural Brochure - Flipbook - Page 31
In recent years, the Ridleys have achieved a series of
notable successes that reflect the strength of their
enterprise. These include a 40,000 pound tup lamb sale,
winning the Scotch Mule Championship with a ewe
lamb, and securing top honours at both the Highland
and Roman Wall Shows. In 2023, they also won the
prestigious Stu Ridley Memorial Cup for the best run of
100 ewe lambs, as well as the sale championship for
the top pen of 25 Mule ewe lambs, marking one of the
most successful years in the farm’s history.
However, behind these achievements lies a significant
amount of planning, technical knowledge, and business
management. Success at this level does not happen by
chance. It requires forward planning across seasons,
careful budgeting, strategic use of grant funding, and a
willingness to adopt new approaches where they add
real value. It also requires consistency in execution,
something the Ridleys have developed through decades
of experience.
For the Ridley family, youngsRPS has played an
important role in that journey.
youngsRPS has been with us every step of the way says
Kevin Ridley. From support with grants to agri
environmental schemes, they have helped us put the
right tools in place to improve the farm and keep our
business moving forward.
That support has taken many forms over the years.
From the initial Countryside Stewardship Mid Tier
agreement set up by youngsRPS consultant Harry
Morshead to the ongoing Sustainable Farming Incentive
scheme now overseen by Charlie Raine, the Ridleys
have been able to implement a range of practical
improvements across the farm. These schemes have not
only supported environmental objectives but have also
delivered direct, tangible benefits to livestock
performance and land management.
One of the most significant developments has been the
introduction of a large Capital Grant secured with the
assistance of Katie Proctor and the wider rural team.
This funding enabled extensive fencing upgrades across
the holding, improving boundary security, grazing
control, and overall stock management. These
improvements have had a direct impact on efficiency,
allowing for better pasture rotation and more targeted
grazing strategies.
In addition, the establishment of a new herbal ley
supported through scheme funding has brought further
benefits. The diverse sward has improved soil structure
