Crathorne Farm Dairy has been milking cows for over 80 years, beginning with just 12 cows. The family-run farm has thrived through three generations, adapting to modern practices while staying true to its deep-rooted love for dairy farming. Although the operation has evolved over time, the commitment to producing high-quality milk remains unchanged. Today, the farm continues to serve the local community with fresh milk—just like in the good old days. 

A precision approach to grassland management  

At Crathorne Farm Dairy, precision grazing is at the heart of daily operations. The 400-head autumn-calving herd is reared on an outdoor pasture-based system designed to optimise grass utilisation and livestock performance. 

To achieve this, the farm relies on daily grass measurements and GPS technology, ensuring each cow receives the precise amount of DM required for each cow per day. Grass is also “banked” whilst the cows are housed between November-February ensuring adequate grazing for spring turn out. 

 

Investing in long-term fencing solutions 

A key part of Crathorne Farm Dairy’s success lies in its well-planned grazing infrastructure. Land is split into 32 paddocks varying in size, all perimeter fenced with a single electric line and Clipex Pasture posts set at 18m intervals. Concrete and astro-turf tracks run through the paddocks, also fenced with Clipex Pasture posts. 

For flexibility, temporary electric fences are moved daily, allowing precise rotational grazing. Timber strainers were selected to accommodate a Batt-Latch System, an automated timer-controlled gate that allows cows to access the parlour without human intervention. 

The grazing system also features a one-way entry and exit layout, reducing poaching in gateways. Meanwhile, calving paddocks are reinforced with hedgerow netting, preventing newborn calves from slipping under the electric fencing. 

Russell explains:
"Clipex Pasture posts have enabled us to maximise grass growth and make grazing management simple. That’s why we’ve used them all over the farm." 

 

Why Clipex posts are the smart choice: 

  • Made from high-strength galvanised steel, Clipex posts are designed to last 35-40 years, ensuring long-term reliability for your grazing infrastructure. 
  • 100% recyclable, Clipex posts help reduce environmental impact when they reach the end of their lifespan, making them an eco-friendlier choice compared to other materials. 

 

The UK’s leading stockist of Clipex fencing 

For over a decade, McVeigh Parker have been the UK’s primary stockist of Clipex fencing, providing British farmers with innovative, long-lasting fencing solutions. 

The Clipex range at McVeigh Parker includes a variety of fencing options tailored to different agricultural needs. With nationwide delivery and a fleet of over 40 vehicles, farmers can access high-quality materials with fast, reliable service. 

Our team is always on hand to provide expert guidance, helping farmers select the right fencing solutions for their land.  

View our range of Clipex posts now.