The Bolton family have farmed at Bank Top Farm, Sawley since 1952. In this episode three generations of the family - Jean, Linda and Sarah - reminisce about bygone days and the changes they have seen over seven decades. They discuss how Jean and John came to buy the farm in their early 20's after working on other Ribble Valley farms after leaving school aged 14, changes in the dairy industry, the devastation of the 2001 foot and mouth outbreak, rebuilding the business with a flock of sheep, and some of the funny moments that come with husbanding livestock and living by a river. This podcast shows how the river influences the family and the farm as the weather and seasons change and every decision is made with the river in mind. A longer listen, this episode is both enjoyable and moving, and it is a privilege to listen to three women who have farming and the Ribble running through their veins.

The Talking Rivers Podcast explores and celebrates the social, cultural and natural history of the River Ribble and its tributaries. Throughout the series we will talk to a range of people who live, work and visit our fantastic rivers and hear about what makes the Ribble Catchment so special to so many people.

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