The East Anglian Film Archive, the first and largest Regional Film Archive in England, was established in 1976. Since 1984, EAFA has been owned and operated by the University of East Anglia, Norwich (UEA), to support research and work to preserve our moving image heritage. More than 250 hours are freely available online as examples of the wide range of film which attracts interest the world over.
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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.
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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.
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