The Yorkshire Shepherdess has provided an update on the ongoing renovation of Anty John's, revealing that complications have arisen as winter conditions hamper builders' progress.
During the second episode of series four of Our Farm Next Door: Amanda, Clive and Kids, broadcast on Monday evening (October 12), Amanda Owen, her former husband Clive, and their nine children contended with wind, mist, and rain as they worked on the isolated sheep farm, Ravenseat, and the neighbouring derelict property.
Setbacks and complications
Two years and six months into the renovation, the Owens encountered another obstacle as winter conditions proved difficult for the builders. "We've reached a stage where everything has almost snowballed. Complications are arising," Amanda disclosed.
"A lot of paperwork, a lot of permissions required. We're trying to get the water supply in. The weather has stopped us on many aspects. I mean, it's made it difficult to travel. It's just been really hard to get any tasks done at Anty John's. And of course, we now need to get the floorboards in and get the upstairs in. You're trying to get all your ducks in a row, [that's] very apt, because it's perfect weather for ducks."
Amanda recognised that it has "taken a long time to get to this stage", but noted that their perseverance will prove worthwhile. She continued: "Sometimes you don't know about whether you're doing right for doing wrong."
Progress made
Later in the programme, progress was achieved as the floorboards were eventually fitted at the farmhouse. "It's really just all hands on deck," Amanda stated. The family confronted the gusty conditions as they endeavoured to transport the timber planks inside the building.
Amanda observed: "It's a big thing. It's a massive thing. Once we can start putting the floorboards in, then it's starting to really look like a home." She concluded: "I think there's 80 square metres of floorboards needed to put in the upper level. It's another step in the right direction."
A trip to Beamish Museum offered inspiration for ambitious proposals to construct a cupboard bed for the youngsters. Additionally, Annas did her utmost to prevent the new puppies from creating havoc, while Sid sat his tractor examination so he could undertake additional duties at the farm.
Our Farm Next Door: Amanda, Clive and Kids airs Monday nights at 9pm on More4.
