5 minutes with…Hadley Glover, young farmer and YFC vice-chair

Hadley Glover, is a 19-year-old based in Kent who is making waves as one of the youngest vice chairs in the Young Farmers’ Clubs (YFC) movement.

Currently, Hadley works as a tutor of animal care and English at a special educational needs, work-based BTEC college located on a working farm in Kent.

This role allows him to share his knowledge and inspire the next generation of farmers.

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“I enjoy every moment. It’s a fantastic way to meet new people, develop skills, and contribute to the community,” he says.

Hadley’s journey into farming began with his family.

Growing up surrounded by agriculture on two family farms in Dartford and Longfield, Kent, he was immersed in a world that raised pork, beef, and lamb for local butchers, along with cultivating cereals for animal feeds.

He reflects on how fortunate he is to have inherited so much knowledge from his grandparents and parents.

“Farming has always been such a vital aspect of my family’s lives and history that it only feels natural for me to want to find my place in the farming community,” he says.

Five years ago, he established the Ivy Cottage flock of Kerry Hills, focusing on pedigree livestock and achieving championship placements in sheep showing across the South East and East Anglia.

Farming holds a special place in Hadley’s heart. It’s more than just a job; it’s an integral part of his family’s history and identity.

The connection to the land and animals, coupled with the hard work involved, resonates deeply with him.

He sees his future clearly, expressing his aspirations. “I hope to return to the family farm to work and learn, and ultimately pass down my knowledge and love for farming to the next generation.”

Additionally, he dreams of judging sheep. “To me, there’s no higher honour than being recognised for your stock.”

In his spare time, Hadley is active in the Young Farmers’ Clubs. “I spend a lot of time planning training days and competitions,” he said, emphasising the camaraderie and support within the community.

When asked about who inspires him, Hadley talks about his grandad, Denis Thomsett.

Growing up on his grandparents’ farm in Dartford created countless cherished memories, especially working alongside family.

“Dehorning and tagging calves became a family affair,” he says. His grandad’s dedication to including everyone in tasks transformed work into treasured family time.

After his passing in 2017, Hadley named his flock Ivy Cottage in his honour, paying tribute to the place where he learned so much and made lasting memories.