This film is part of Free

Red Poll story

As the opening credits run, you will be forgiven for thinking you are watching a Hollywood blockbuster - but as cattle, the Red Poll is a true 'star' within farming circles.

Promotional 1955 30 mins

From the collection of:

Logo for East Anglian Film Archive

Overview

The Red Poll cattle is one of East Anglia's secret weapons. Originating as a cross between Norfolk Red beef cattle and Suffolk Dun dairy cattle, the dual purpose heritage breed enables farmers to respond to needs of both milk and beef production. This film was commissioned by the Red Poll Society to show the many advantages of farming Red Poll and how its versatility appeals to farmers the world over who insist on "economical management".

Peterborough engineering firm, F Perkins Ltd. had the luxury of their own film production unit and presumably, through business connections, were asked to make this film for the Red Poll Society, based in Ipswich. Many East Anglian farms and agricultural shows feature in the film including the Sandringham Estate's own royal herd of Red Poll. Particular reference is made to the Red Polls' lack of horns which makes for more space within a herd and less damage to cattle hides - all adding to the breeds economic viability.