Chartley Estate near Stafford was the location for our 2023 AGM and Open Day, kindly hosted by David and Virginia Johnson. Over 40 members attended the event. Chartley Estate is home to the Castle herd of White Park cattle, which was established following the arrival of two heifers from the Chartley herd from Ditchingham Eatate in Norfolk. The Ferres family, who live at Ditchingham, once owned Chartley Estate, hence the connection between the two locations.
During the AGM there was a presentation to Alistair Black, who retired in February of this year from being Chair of the Society, a role he had held for 18 years.
An open forum followed the AGM when members were reminded about the beef certificate which is available, asked to complete and return their herd surveys and reminded that TB reactors which are registered or birth notified attract a higher level of compensation.
At the end of the Open Forum Chair of Council, Henry Rusch, announced that Lawrence Alderson would be stepping down from his role of President, but would remain on Council. Lawrence’s commitment to managing the DNA testing programme and his contribution to the development of the White Park breed over more than 50 years was acknowledged by the meeting. Lawrence was presented with a meal voucher for a Michelin-starred restaurant.
A full copy of the AGM minutes can be viewed below.
After lunch members enjoyed a tour of the estate, including Chartley Castle. The castle is a grade 2 listed motte and bailey castle originally constructed around 1100. Visitors have included Queen Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots. The estate’s herd of White Park females grazed quietly below the castle, watched over by the magnificent bull Cadzow Qeith. An evening meal at a hotel in Uttoxeter completed a fabulous day.
