Extolling the virtues of red deer farming

The decision to leave dairy farming in exchange to develop a supplementary business has seen one West Yorkshire farmer meet a growing demand for venison. ANGELA CALVERT reports.

An increasing demand for venison makes deer farming a viable, yet easily managed enterprise for farmers seeking new opportunities.

That is the opinion of Richard Elmhirst, who has farmed deer at Round Green Farm, Worsbrough, on the outskirts of Barnsley for 30 years.

"Deer fits in well with other farming sectors," says Richard. "Providing appropriate fencing has been put up, deer will run happily alongside cattle and sheep.

"Alternatively, as they require very little management input, they are ideal for farmers wanting to pursue off-farm employment and at the same time continue to make use of their grassland."