MEMBERS of the Ederney-based 'Plough On' group recently visited Grove Dairy Farm Fresh Milk in Castlederg, where they were given an in-depth tour of the family-run dairy operation.

Established in 1978 by Jack and Hazel Mitchell, the farm has grown from its roots in milk processing and bottling to a fully integrated dairy business.

Among the attendees was 87-year-old Henry Ellis, a long-time member of the group, who shared his perspective on the significant transformations in dairy farming over the years.

Reflecting on his own experiences, Ellis recalled the days when dairy farmers like himself would hand-milk cows and fill creamery cans to be sent to Kesh Creamery.

In those days, payments to farmers were made by cheque.

Ellis' observations served as a reminder of how much the industry has evolved, with modern dairy farming now dominated by mechanisation, from automated milking systems to sophisticated bottling processes.

The visit to Grove Dairy provided the 'Plough On' group with a unique opportunity to reflect on the past while learning about the cutting-edge practices that continue to shape the future of dairy farming.