Philip and Clare are the fourth generation of the Dixon family to farm at East House, Langleydale. Situated in the heart of rural Teesdale, approximately 5 miles from Barnard Castle, in County Durham. East House is a traditional hill farm, of 218 hectares. The farm holds 450 breeding sheep and 50 breeding cows.
The sheep flock consists of Swaledale, and mule ewes: the swaledale ewes are crossed with the blue faced Leister rams to produce north of England mule lambs. They are also crossed with the swaledale ram to produce swaledale replacement ewes to add to the flock. The homebred mule ewe is crossed with the texel ram to produce a high quality continental lamb used for meat production. Many of the female lambs remain on the farm for breeding purposes, therefore ensuring virtually full traceability.
As a traditional farm, the land is not intensively farmed, and the use of chemicals and pesticides is avoided where ever possible. The farm is in several government funded stewardship schemes to enhance the local birds and habitat. The Dixon family are committed to preserving the beautiful countryside. Walks and Bridleways are spread across the farm, which allows the public to experience the beautiful surrounds and breathtaking views first hand. Philip has farmed at East House from leaving school, and hopes that one day he is able to hand the farm over to one of his children to continue the family tradition another generation.
Clare a farmers daughter herself, assists on the farm whenever possible, however she also runs the families outside catering business -‘CCS Catering', which helps and supports Langleydale Lamb. The couple are dedicated to ‘keeping Britain farming' as they believe that the farm offers their family a fantastic upbringing and a high quality of life. Member of FABBL - farm assurance scheme. Also a member of Eblex - The English beef and lamb executive.
