Steve and Jean Green, Britain's oldest farming couple, became visibly emotional on The Yorkshire Vet spin-off At Home With The Greens while discussing the painful decision to sell their dairy herd in 2015. The couple, now 96 and 73 respectively, appeared on the Channel 5 programme which documents their shift from traditional farming methods to new strategies to sustain Stony Brough Farm.
Long Days on the Farm
Standing in their former cow shed, the couple reminisced with veterinarian Peter Wright about their milking routine. Jean recalled: "About half past five, every morning without fail - winter and summer. Come hell, store. Oh, blow. We were there. 2 o'clock in the afternoon we started again so we could get done for the night. We might get tea at 7:00, 8:00 at night time." Peter remarked on the long hours, and Jean agreed: "Oh they were long days but there were good days."
Heartbreaking Decision
The dairy operations ceased in 2015 when Steve's health deteriorated, forcing the couple to part with their herd. Steve admitted: "I'm very heartbroken really but as you see it might be a bit much for me in winter." Jean, in tears, added: "200 years of being cows here." Peter asked if they still miss their cows. Steve, clearly emotional, replied: "Oh, yeah. I Miss Saddam Stanley." Peter noted the family's emotion, and Jean broke down: "Yeah, we still are because, yeah, I don't..."
Moving Forward
Though the milking era has ended, the Greens now focus on raising new calves, which keeps them busy with the work they love. The episode of The Yorkshire Vet: At Home With The Greens aired on Channel 5.
