3.26pm - Friday 1st May 2026 3,312

Farming may be as old as the hills, but on this Highland croft, modern tech is changing everything.
Join crofter and deer manager Niall Rowantree as he shows us the kit that’s revolutionised how he manages his land, livestock, and wildlife — even when he’s miles away from home.
From virtual fencing collars that replace miles of wood and wire, to off-grid security cameras keeping watch in the most remote locations, this film explores how smart technology is making a tough way of life that little bit easier.

We see how Niall uses Monil virtual fencing collars to manage his Shetland cattle across thousands of acres of moorland, how Farm Stream cameras help protect his valuable red park deer, and how HIKMicro thermal units allow him to locate stock, spot wildlife, and reassure himself that everything is as it should be — day or night.

With help from his daughters, Kirstyn and Erin, this is a story about tradition, innovation, and keeping an eagle eye on the land you love.

Then we go behind the scenes with Nick Radclyffe and his team to uncover the craft of traditional British gin and fruit liqueur making. From the orchards of the Vale of Evesham to the vats where the magic happens, you’ll see exactly how fresh, locally grown fruit becomes a perfect tipple for every season.

We visit James Styan, a nimble and innovative grower, as he prepares for the 2026 season—supplying everything from rhubarb to damsons for Foxdenton’s unique spirits. Along the way, we explore the heritage of British fruit growing, the changing agricultural landscape, and the close relationship between producer and distiller.

Back at the distillery, Nick shares insider secrets—from whether you really need to prick your sloes, to how long different fruits take to infuse, and the biggest myths about making your own sloe gin at home.

Finally as livestock finally get on fresh grass we ask what people paid for their hay as David call in a favour when the ancient baler takes a turn.


https://www.farmstream.co.uk
https://monil.co.uk/
https://www.hikmicrotech.com

For Fox Denton fruit liqueurs
https://foxdentonestate.co.uk
To find out where the Styan's will be having a fresh fruit and veg stall
https://styanfamilyproduce.com/