From magnificent pigs and opinionated sheep to remarkably affectionate turkeys, Cross Bank Farm is home to an array of extraordinary characters. Discover some of their stories, their breeds and the artwork they've inspired.
Pedigree Hebridean ram
Four horns. A magnificent sense of self-importance. Absolutely no concept of modesty.
Alun is our pedigree Hebridean ram, a particularly striking gentleman with magnificent headgear. He's a wonderful representative of this traditional British sheep breed, known for its hardiness, distinctive appearance and rather spectacular horns.
He's certainly made an impression here at Cross Bank Farm, and it seemed only right that such an extraordinary character should have his own illustrated alter ego.
And so Smouldering Alun was born. Four horns, one enormous personality and absolutely no intention of blending into the flock.
Alun
Oxford Sandy & Black female
Winnie is our lovely Oxford Sandy & Black sow, with the beautiful sandy colouring and distinctive black patches that make this traditional British breed so recognisable.
But it's Winnie's personality that makes her truly special. Extraordinarily affectionate, she adores human company and has a decidedly puppy-like enthusiasm for attention. If there's an opportunity for some fuss, Winnie is generally very happy to participate.
Her illustrated counterpart, Wonderfully Winnie, celebrates a pig who apparently never received the memo that she isn't actually a puppy.
Winnie
Large Black gilt
Magnificent ears, considerable presence and all the dignity of a lady who knows precisely what she's worth.
Mabel is our beautiful Large Black sow, a magnificent example of one of Britain's traditional rare pig breeds. With her enormous floppy ears, impressive stature and unmistakable appearance, she's quite the sight to behold & a cuddly baby to boot!
Naturally, a lady of such distinction couldn't be expected to go without her own portrait.
Magnificent Mabel is our tribute to a pig who appears to regard being extraordinary as the bare minimum.
Mabel
Pied Crollwittzer Stag
Henry is our devilishly handsome pied Crollwitzer turkey. An enthusiastic communicator & a devoted attention-seeker, Henry is wonderfully affectionate. He enjoys following people around, being cuddled and making himself part of whatever happens to be going on.
If he feels he's being ignored, he will launch into an elaborate display of dancing and strutting to remind everyone of his presence. And should that fail, there's always shouting.
Handsome Henry is our illustrated tribute to a gentleman who believes every day deserves a performance, preferably with an appreciative audience.
Henry
The Triplets
Oxford Sandy & Black x Large Black gilts
Our three young gilts are the daughters of Winnie, our Oxford Sandy & Black sow, and Malcolm, a Large Black boar. Born here at Cross Bank Farm, they combine the characteristics of two wonderful traditional British pig breeds.
As you might imagine, three inquisitive young pigs growing up together are rarely short of entertainment.
Watching them grow and develop their individual personalities has been a lovely part of life on the farm.
Their Fauna artwork celebrates all the curiosity, mischief and youthful enthusiasm of three little pigs discovering the world together.