Our farm manager, Oliver Pratt, writes from the heart. He tells it as it happens and this month’s diary is full of disappointments as the harvest is finished early. The team remain positive - a quieter August gives more time for their families. They're also cracking on with the ground prep for next year. He shares some great photos from the harvest. A real insight into farm life this summer.

Despite a challenging summer for crops, Heathpatch welcomed 250 visitors to its 2026 farm tours, sharing insights into farming, wildlife habitats, conservation projects and renewable energy. Visitors also enjoyed learning about our thriving barn owl population, including the ringing of three healthy chicks and the encouraging sight of young owls flourishing across the estate.

Discover how phacelia flowers are helping improve soil health and biodiversity on our farm. As a cover crop, phacelia reduces compaction, suppresses weeds and returns organic matter to the soil. Known as "Bee's Friend", it also provides valuable nectar and pollen for pollinators. Learn how a chance encounter with local beekeeper Haughley Honey led to hives being placed alongside these vibrant purple fields.

Brett Vale Farming Diary for June 2026

Brett Vale Farming Diary for May 2026 has been published, albeit a little late. May was a busy month for all. Olly shares his news.

Heathpatch hosted the CLA East Suffolk AGM at Semer, welcoming over 80 rural business members. The day included updates from CLA CEO Isabella Murfin, a farm tour showcasing conservation and landscape restoration, and a visit to Nedging Hall, highlighting estate-grown produce, hospitality and rural enterprise. A delicious lunch was served by The Crown at Bildeston.

Catch up with our farm manager's balancing act.

Olly swaps Suffolk farmland for the streets of London as he runs the London Marathon on 26th April to raise funds for the Kyaninga children's charity.

Booking is now open for our Spring and Summer Tours. An opportunity to get a unique view of the beautiful Suffolk countryside.

Brett Vale Farming Diary for March is now live.

The February farming diary is now live. Click through to read the latest from Dairy Farm, Semer, Suffolk

Our Farm Manager's report on events on our farm over January 2026.

Happy New Year! The Brett Vale Farming Diary is live for December 2025.

A taster of a new regular piece - Brett Vale Farming Diary by Farm Manager, Oliver Pratt, giving a regular update on the activities on the farm.

We opened our doors to a student from The Raedwald Trust for a morning of inspiration and work experience with our teams in Semer, Suffolk.

A round up of the summer activities on the farm from the harvest to the farm tours, plus a tour of Raydon Great Wood.

Brett Vale Farming Company sponsor football kits for Hadleigh United under 10s girls team.

Heathpatch's teams get involved with Work Experience week, hosting two students from Hadleigh High School.

Walking on the Wilding Side in the Suffolk Countryside, raising money for Hadleigh Health Centre.

Heathpatch Ltd and A J Pratt & Son welcome a third local farm to the Brett Vale farming venture in W D Chaplin Farms