Fordhall Organic Farm, England’s first community-owned farm, is entering a new cycle of hope as it approaches a remarkable milestone, 20-years of community ownership in 2026.
Nearly two decades ago, 8,000 people came together to save 128-acres of organic farmland for the benefit of future generations. A high profile campaign fought to save the long-standing organic farm that has been nurtured for Arthur Hollins since the 1920s, His children, Charlotte and Ben Hollins, led the fight to save their family home and through the Fordhall Community Land Initiative (FCLI), this land is now community-owned with the land rented to organic farmer Ben Hollins on a 100-year tenancy, offering long-term security for the family and the soil they nurture. Today, that spirit of collective determination continues to rise and they are inviting others to be part of this movement.
At the heart of this movement stands Cottage Field, a small but significant piece of land within Fordhall Farm’s family heritage. Since losing access in 2019, its absence has been felt deeply.
Charlotte Hollins, manager of the Fordhall Community Land Initiative said, “Cottage Field isn’t just a field; it is the missing piece of Fordhall’s landscape, history, and potential. Without it, Ben’s free-range pigs have been displaced, and the opportunity to grow projects and events for the community has been held back.
“Reacquiring Cottage Field would allow our pigs and sheep to return to their traditional pastures and would open the door to more accessible community events, as well as expanding Fordhall Farm’s Youth Project and Care Farm. This creates more space for vulnerable young people and adults with learning disabilities to learn, fostering meaningful change that nurtures both people and the planet.
It is the last part of Dad’s organic heritage that we are determined to preserve.”
To ignite this next chapter, Fordhall Community Land Initiative has set an ambitious goal: to welcome 1,000 new shareholders over the next 12 months. Each new member brings the community one step closer to restoring what was lost and strengthening what has already been built. Shares in the FCLI support the community-ownership movement and organic farms in Shropshire and beyond. Shareholders carry a voice within each strategic direction made, helping shape and navigate its future.
Charlotte says “As we approach the festive season, why not consider gifting community shares to your family and friends? A share in Fordhall is not just about part-owning a piece of beautiful Shropshire, but it is about sharing the journey with us – with all their ups and downs – our members are part of it all. They are also a unique way to reward and thank staff if you are a socially conscious business owner wanting to do that little bit more! Community shares let you give twice – once to someone special, and once gain to the community and landscape we all share. “
As Fordhall moves toward its 20-year celebration, the message is clear: hope is not a moment, but a cycle, one renewed every time someone chooses to stand with the land, the farm, and the community it supports.
For information on how to become a shareholder and join the next phase of Fordhall’s journey, visit fordhallfarm.com/buy-a-share
