I farm: “600ac with 220 Angus cross and Simmental cross cows. We use Limousin and Angus bulls and recently introduced a Hereford. We also have a growing sheep flock.”

This week: “We have been worming and treating the calves with Rispoval RS+PI3 Intranasal for pneumonia.”

Starting out: “I came from a dairy farm and when I was 25 I got the lease of Gryffe Wraes farm from Elderslie estate. I came in as a new tenant and worked my way to where I am now.”

Breeding: “I don’t use the Charolais anymore. The future is about quality beef and for me it’s about going maternal.”

Midlife crisis: “I call my new sheep flock my midlife crisis. Four years ago we got 30 ewe lambs and we have bred up to 150 breeding Llyen ewes. It is a self-contained flock like my cows. I can’t understand people who buy lots of breeding sheep from lots of different sources. It is all about protecting the health of your animals.”

Vet groups: “We are part of a vet group looking at fertility and cattle health. Other farmers have the same issues as you but they might have a different way of tackling it. You can always pick up a wee spark or wee gem of an idea which doesn’t cost you anything but can lead to big improvements.”

Wood bines: “We have had a disaster with straw this year so I have taken an Arctic load of wood bines for bedding. It comes £25/t delivered, compared to £130/140 for straw delivered in central Scotland.”

The team: “Steven Stark has been here since school. Plus I get a lot of support from my wife and daughters.”

Quotable quote: “Tomorrow is more important than yesterday.”