Ipstones showMCA has always worked hard to engage the local farming community, to understand their concerns and, where possible, work with them on understanding what's needed in the transition to different forms of agricultural practice.

We are regular stallholders at the Leek and District Agricultural Show and many of our members attend the smaller, more locally focussed events, such as Ipstones and Manifold Shows. But none of us go as far as Phil Barks, himself of farming stock, who is a long-time member of the organising committee of Ipstones Agricultural Show. Here is Phil taking a well-earned break from hammering in stakes and chasing runaway cattle.