The Hollyhock Flock
The Hollyhock Flock
Having been the caretaker of Hollyhock farm for nearly 40 years, Sue Cole knows a thing or two about rearing sheep.
Gotland sheep, to be precise. After she discovered them on a trip to Sweden, she knew their friendly personalities, manageable size and lovely curly fleeces would be the perfect fit for her farm here in the New Forest.
Super Sheep
One of the New Forest Marque’s longest-standing members, Sue has played an important role in the local produce scheme for almost 20 years. Not only is she a primary producer, rearing livestock for meat and wool, she’s also a keen craftsperson. Knitting her own garments and collaborating with a talented local creator to produce woollen teddy bears and tea cosies to sell at local markets.
‘The Gotlands are triple purpose – meat, skins and wool – and I can use everything. They’re not the easiest breed to keep, but they’re one of the most rewarding. There’s so much you can use from them, and they’re very friendly and fun.’ – Sue Cole, New Forest Marque member and owner of the Hollyhock Flock
Soil and Sustainability
Passionate about protecting our environment here in the New Forest, Sue believes that nurturing and working hard to improve the soil on her farm has played a key role in its success, and that it’s one of the most important things we can do to ensure the longevity of our farmland.
‘It’s absolutely vital to keep the ground in beautiful condition. I’m very environmentally aware and it’s important for me to be adding carbon and organic matter back into the soil in a responsible way. I don’t think there’s such thing as ownership of land, we are stewards, and we should always aim to hand it back in a better condition than we found it.’
‘We’re living in a world which is rapidly heating. We’re tiny cogs but we’re all part of the wheel, so by purchasing food and other goods that are produced locally, we can all help to positively impact the economy and the environment.’ – Sue Cole, New Forest Marque member and owner of the Hollyhock Flock
'I’ve been a member of the New Forest Marque since almost the very beginning, and I’ve seen the fortunes decline and rise again. The New Forest is an extraordinary place and we’re so lucky to live here. As members, we’re trying to re-localise production and build strong networks.'
Farmer Sue Cole - The Hollyhock Flock
The Hollyhock Flock
Sue Cole examining fleece from her sheep
Hollyhock Flock hand-knitted tea cosy
Hollyhock Flock sheep herd in the New Forest
1 - 3
Get in touch
Look out for Sue at local markets and visit her website for more information:
Meet more New Forest Marque members
Sign up to the Marque email newsletter
Need to create a form