GREENHILL Farm in Warrington played host to primary school children to help engage them with modern farming.

David Johnson, Arla farmer and owner of Greenhill Farm in Whitley, gave a guided tour of his facilities to year six pupils from Co-op Academy Woodlands in Leeds.

Pupils experienced the full farm-to-store journey of dairy at Greenhill Farm, learning where milk comes from and the ways dairy products are made.

To help the children gain an understanding of the value of farming, David explained how milk is a great source of vitamins, minerals, calcium and protein.

He also taught them about the processes at the dairy farm, including the homogenisation and the packaging process of milk into cartons, which are made from up to 40 per cent recycled plastic.

David said: "It was fantastic to welcome the children from Co-op Academy Woodlands, and give them the chance to learn about life as a dairy farmer.

"As a passionate farmer-owner of dairy cooperative Arla, it’s important to me to get children engaged with farming, which will hopefully encourage a deeper understanding and respect for their food, which can lead to better informed choices later in life.

"Arla farmers up and down the country are always more than happy to host school visits so that we can help the younger generation understand where their milk, butter and cheese come from."

Tom Trower, teacher at Co-op Academy Woodlands, said: "The experience was invaluable for our children.

"It gave our students a chance to see the hard work that goes into the production of the food we take for granted.

"Not only did it open our children’s eyes to the work that goes into the production of this food, but it also opened their eyes to their future career aspirations."