Theme: From 40 sheep to 780 – building a modern Rutland sheep enterprise
As part of our Farming Focus series, we recently visited Lucy Hinch and Jack Cooper, two self-funded young sheep farmers who are quietly building an impressive and forward-thinking farming business right here in Rutland.
What makes their story particularly inspiring is how quickly — and sustainably — they’ve grown their operation.
Starting small, thinking BIG
Just three years ago, Lucy and Jack started out with a flock of 40 sheep. With no inherited land or established farming business to rely on, everything they have built has been self-funded, driven by determination, careful planning and long hours of hard work.
Today, their flock has grown to around 780 sheep, spread across rented land in multiple locations throughout the county. Managing sheep across several sites brings added complexity, but it has allowed them to expand their business while remaining flexible and realistic about land availability.
Producing for market
Lucy and Jack finish their lambs primarily for the deadweight market, selling to Farmers Fresh. Some lambs are also sold through Melton Mowbray Market, giving them access to a mix of marketing routes.
This balanced approach helps manage risk and respond to market conditions — an important factor in building a resilient livestock enterprise.
Lambing Bingo: farming meets fundraising
This lambing season, Lucy and Jack are supporting Oakham Young Farmers Club and the Farming Community Network through a brilliant and engaging fundraising initiative — Lambing Bingo.
A total of 90 ewes have been numbered, and as each ewe lambs, photos are posted online. Participants mark off their bingo cards in the order the lambs arrive, with three prizes to be won.
It’s a fun way to follow lambing season, support rural charities and get a real insight into life on the farm.
👉 Check out the Oakham Young Farmers Facebook page to get involved and buy tickets.
Diversifying with tractor driving experiences
Alongside their sheep enterprise, Lucy and Jack have diversified into tractor driving experiences, giving members of the public the chance to get behind the wheel of a Massey Ferguson 6490 (red).
Experiences can be booked via Virgin Experience Days and Into The Blue, or directly through Lucy for £100 per hour.
- Minimum age: 13 years
- Tractor: Massey Ferguson 6490 (red)
- Direct bookings: £100 per hour
- Contact Lucy: 07860 939898
This diversification not only provides an additional income stream but also helps connect the public with modern farming in a hands-on, memorable way.
A great example of modern farming
Lucy and Jack’s journey highlights the reality of farming today — one that requires adaptability, entrepreneurship and resilience. From starting with a small flock to managing land across Rutland, supporting charity initiatives and diversifying their business, they are a great example of the next generation of farming.
We’re delighted to share their story as part of our Farming Focus series and look forward to following their progress in the years ahead.
📣 Want to Feature in Farming Focus?
We’re always looking for local farms and rural businesses to showcase.
If you’d like to be involved, please get in touch:
📧 showteam@rutlandshowground.com
Together, let’s keep telling the stories that keep Rutland farming strong. 💚
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