Have a 'Gouda' day at Countryside Lincs! 23 Mar

Mary and Michael Davenport, from Osgodby, Lincolnshire, have been dairy farmers for more than 50 years. They diversified their farm in 2005 to start producing soft cheese from their herd of 80 cows. On Sunday 9 April they will be bringing their expertise to Countryside Lincs to give children and families an insight into the process.

Mary said: "We have been exhibiting at Countryside Lincs since it started and this year we will be bringing along some examples of old dairy equipment to make cheese and butter with children. It is something a bit different and hopefully it will give visitors an insight into where their food comes from and to learn about dairy farmers.

"We made the move to produce soft cheese to ensure the future of our farm and now I wouldn't have it any other way. We are a family business and absolutely love what we do."

Cote Hill Cheese produces around 18 tonnes of cheese a year and sells five different ranges of soft cheese.

Countryside Lincs is a hands-on learning experience about food, crafts, farming and the importance of the countryside. It is now in its third year, taking place at the Lincolnshire Showground.

The show has a range of activities and zones for children to enjoy including the Explore It Zone sponsored by Western Power Distribution, the Farmyard Zone, the Food Zone sponsored by Lincolnshire Media, Make It Zone sponsored by Karu Ltd and the Countryside Zone sponsored by Pentagon Lincoln.

Other activities for children on the day include meeting farmyard animals big and small, exploring vintage and modern tractors and farm machinery, hands-on cooking with Steven Bennett, The Lincolnshire Chef, and seeing a variety of acts and performances in the Countryside Ring - plus much more.

Jayne Southall, Chief Executive at the Lincolnshire Showground, said: "As a society we believe it is incredibly important to make sure we are educating the next generation about farming, agriculture and where their food comes from.

"We have lots for children and families to enjoy at Countryside Lincs. New for this year, there will be interactive storytelling from Rhubarb Theatre, pork pie and sausage making, and of course, an insight into how one of our county's farms makes its own soft cheese."

Advanced tickets are priced at just £16 for a family of four, £6 for adults, £3.50 for children and under 5's go free.

For more information just click here or watch the Countryside Lincs video.