REG ALMOND left school just after the Second World War all set to take on the reigns of the family farm in Sefton, Merseyside.
But fate intervened…
The 300-acre dairy and arable Buckley Hill Farm, which his family had worked for three generations, was sold by the then Lord Sefton to the local authority for housing.
And instead of a lifetime of raring cattle and planting crops, the teenage and entrepreneurial Reg was to spend the next 40 years in the construction and land reclamation industry.
The new family business he created – R W Almond Builders Merchants – still thrives in Formby, and is now being run by the younger generation.
But for Reg and his wife, Joan, things have virtually turned full circle …
At a time when most people are planning retirement, Reg, then 60, decided to go back to his roots – and buy a farm, a very run-down farm, in the Lake District.
“I just wanted to be a farmer again,” he says, “and when the chance came up to buy the 250-acre Irton House Farm there was only one thing we could do. It took a huge amount of blood, sweat and tears restoring the farmhouse and converting the outbuildings into holiday cottages, but it was a labour of love.
Reg and Joan, and their pal, Ernest, did all the conversion work themselves – often working in snow and ice, and throughout the night.
It wasn’t just dealing with all the building work. Reg and Joan also had to look after 450 sheep.
Now, 23 years on, and despite various health setbacks – “and three false hips between us” – the couple are still in the thick of it all, and deservedly proud of their achievements.
They’ve lots of trophies and certificates to show for their prize-winning Texel flock – and hundreds of letters and testimonials from very satisfied holidaymakers, many who have mobility problems.
“We have always felt very strongly about providing top class accommodation for families affected by disability,” says Joan, who looks after the bookings for the six cottages and adjoining caravan site.
“There is just not enough wheelchair-accessible places for families to have a holiday and we are trying to do our bit to change things.”
Reg and Joan are certainly doing that.
“Were still in love with the place,” said Reg, pointing down the hills to Bassenthwaite.
“We wake up every morning to one of the best views in the Lake District – if not the world. And it’s all here to be shared by our family and our visitors.
“We’re living the dream.”
YOUR chance to WIN a dream holiday
NOW here’s YOUR chance to win a fantastic week’s self-catering holiday at Irton House Farm!
Situated in the beautiful countryside at Isel, about a 15-minute drive from Cockermouth, 25 minutes from Keswick, the stone built cottages provide top class accommodation.
Irton House Farm is ideal for a peaceful holiday, the majestic views and the wildlife provide some terrific opportunities for artists and photographers.
More energetic pursuits such as sailing, cycling, horse riding, and golf are all available nearby.
Keen hill walkers and climbers can explore the fantastic range of northern fells, including Skiddaw, Blencathra and Caldbeck Fells.
And after a busy day you can relax and unwind at one of the local pubs or simply enjoy watching the lambs at play in front of your cottage at Irton House Farm.
To win this super prize all you have to do is to answer the following question:
Where is Irton House Farm situated?
Email your answer to: competition@alltogethernow.org.uk
Please also tell us what you like and maybe dislike about All Together NOW!
Closing date: Friday July 27.
The seven-night stay at Irton House Farm will be subject to availability – the winning entry will be required to liaise directly with the property owners, Reg and Joan Almond
YOU CAN also help the All Together NOW! charity by becoming a subscriber.
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