Exeter Turkey Farm, known as home of Tasty Bird is one of our Golden Turkey accredited farms – as the name suggests it’s just outside Exeter at Glebelands Farm, Upton Pyne. They are a third generation family farm specialising in producing Christmas poultry since 1940. We find out more about our highly experienced Golden Turkey farmer Mike Leach…
When did you first start producing accredited Golden Turkeys for Christmas?
We joined the TFTA (Traditional Farm-fresh Turkey Association) and started producing our first accredited Golden Turkeys in 2008 – 12 years ago now!
How long have you been in Farming?
As I’m part of three generations of family farming – the production of Christmas poultry started in the 1940’s – I’ve been a farmer for 68 years!
Do you produce anything else on your farm besides Golden Turkeys for Christmas?
In addition to producing fine turkeys and geese for the Christmas market we also grow crops (wheat, barley and oil seed rape) and so when not producing festive birds our workload is centred around these crops.
Who else do you normally sell Golden Turkeys to?
I really enjoy the outdoors and the rural way of life as a farmer; watching things grow, harvesting and producing fine festive birds for Christmas.
What or who, inspires you?
My Family.
What was your first job?
Steering a Ferguson TEF tractor (when I was 4 years old!)
What would you be doing, if you weren’t a farmer?
I’d be dead!
Tea or Coffee?
Tea.
Favourite Book or Film?
Top Gun and Ian Rankin Books.
Favourite Food?
Any turkey or beef dish! (Using our own produce of course!)
Best way to relax after a stressful day?
Sitting quietly with a can of beer whilst admiring our beautiful view of the countryside.
Which social media platforms do you use for your Christmas Turkey business?
We prefer Facebook.
How has the Corona Virus Pandemic affected your farm life and business?
Yes, it has affected us. We’ve seen a drop in finished beef prices. We’ve also found difficulties in sourcing farm requisites.
Are you planning to make changes in the way you promote your Christmas turkeys?
We plan to use social media and direct marketing more this year.
Are you planning to offer a nationwide delivery service?
Yes, we already offer a nationwide delivery service which we will repeat again for this Christmas.
Further Details: https://www.exeterturkeyfarm.co.uk
Facebook: @Exeter Turkey Farm – Devon
Instagram: @exeter_turkey_farm
Twitter: @ExeterFarm
