We returned in 1980 from working in USA. Although we had been living in New Jersey, we had had a farm in Vermont which overlooked Lake Champlain and this is where we acquired the thirst for breeding cattle.

In 1981 my young son and I attended the Newbury Show where we spent most of our time studying the various breeds of cattle but soon got hooked on Dexters. Jay Hunt, who was our initial tutor, got us started with a couple of Dexters and then we purchased two heifers from Andrew Sheppy. One of these heifers, Woodmagic Cuthberts Pepperwort 10350, turned out to be Champion material and won at numerous shows. Pepperwort and another subsequent purchase from Andrew Sheppy, Cobthorn Cola 12340, were the two main foundation females of the APPLE Herd. Apple Cola 2nd 20083 won the Newbury Show championship in 2005.

As well as Pepperwort, Apple Blossom 11063 was the other successful female during the 1980's winning numerous classes and, more importantly, producing two regular show champions in the 1990's namely Apple Joe 2552 and Apple Delight 13738.

Two heifers were purchased in Jane Paynter's reduction sale, Knotting Moda 14736 and Knotting Seam 2nd 13824; both these cows produced class winners at 2005 Royal Show at Stoneleigh. As Jane approached retirement several other Knotting animals were purchased most importantly, Knotting Leo 3rd 3737, who has now sired some excellent offspring and is available on AI. Knotting bloodlines are particularly excellent for udder development.

The Apple Rosebud line has been successful in the show ring with 20784 Apple Rosebud 3rd winning the Championship at The Royal Show in 2004 and 19601 Apple Rosebud 2nd winning her dry class in several 2005 shows.

The purchase of Cobthorn Dannyboy 3937, who is available on AI, was made in order to continue improvements with temperament, backlines and attractive heads. He has sired numerous show class winners, both for myself and others in the UK, Australia, Germany and Switzerland.

We now have two separate herds of short and non short Dexters as we breed short to long and vice versa so we do not risk problems.

Visitors are always welcome, particularly from outside the UK.

Stuart and Jenny Tarrant

Telephone 01344 882501 or 07720 426774
Email stuart.tarrant@btinternet.com