During Sunday’s episode of Fletcher’s Family Farm, Kelvin Fletcher delivered uplifting news that has brought renewed hope to his Cheshire farm. After a previously heartbreaking diagnosis that Ruby, the family’s cherished cow, had lost her calf, the latest vet check confirmed she is now pregnant again.
Earlier in the series, the Fletcher family faced the emotional challenge of dealing with Ruby’s miscarriage, leaving them anxious about her recovery and future. However, the recent vet visit brought fantastic news: Ruby’s pregnancy was confirmed, and her calf is estimated to be around 14 weeks along. This means the farm can look forward to welcoming a new addition in the near future.
Reflecting on the journey, Kelvin shared, “Several weeks ago, we got the sad news that our much-loved cow Ruby miscarried her calf. Thankfully, she was soon well enough to run with our young bull again, and today, we will find out if he’s done his job.”
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Kelvin added, “We’ve got Hugo the vet here, and we’ve gathered all our cows in the shed to check Ruby. All being well, she’s back in calf, and she’ll be calving not too long after Cherry. This fits perfectly with our plan for the Royal Cheshire Show 2025, where we hope to showcase four children and the young handlers. That’s my dream from last year, so fingers crossed.”
In addition to pregnancy testing, vet Hugo conducted routine TB testing on the cattle herd—a mandatory process happening every six months due to the threat of tuberculosis in parts of England and Wales. Hugo collected hair samples from each cow to screen for the disease, a procedure Kelvin described as tough but necessary. “If an animal reacts positively and the results are conclusive, it has to be culled. It’s devastating for the herd,” he explained.
As Hugo examined Ruby, he confirmed, “Okay, so we’ve got a pregnancy. She’s about three months in calf, possibly 14 weeks when considering the size of the legs. It’s a bit late for show season, but within expectations.”
Kelvin, clearly relieved, responded, “That’s good news. She’s back in calf and healthy. Unfortunately, she’ll miss the Cheshire show this year, but that’s okay.”
Expressing his excitement, Kelvin concluded, “I’m so thrilled for Ruby. She produced such a fantastic calf last year. I just hope this one will be an easier birth.”
The Fletcher family’s journey with Ruby highlights the challenges and joys of farm life, with hope now renewed for a happy outcome and a promising future for the farm’s newest arrival.