Anne Parsons, biodynamic farmer and investor in Stockwood CBS

Anne Parsons is the daughter of David Clement, a pioneer in the British organic movement and one of the first two biodynamic farmers in the UK. Anne became the farmer of Rush Farm, a 190-acre farm in Worcestershire, now owned by Stockwood Community Benefit Society. Finally, in her sixties, she had the opportunity to fulfil her vocation, nurturing the land.
Stockwood (CBS) now owns the pioneering biodynamic Rush Farm and Business Park and is seeking to raise a further £550,000 through a new share offer. Investments support a renewable energy project, protect the farm, and fund an education centre for schools and young people to learn transformational social and life skills.
Anne was one of the first investors in Stockwood CBS:
“We opened the farm up to community ownership to ensure history doesn’t repeat itself and the precious landscape is not lost. Stockwood is a successful project pioneering a new model of farming that transforms land ownership. The community of investors will always have a say in its future whilst receiving interest. I hope other farmers are inspired to do the same.”
The Stockwood Community Benefit Society (CBS) is the UK’s only 100% community-owned farm looking to pay shareholders a 5% financial return, while providing significant social, environmental and economic impacts.
Anne Parsons said: "When my father sold the farm a secret resolve was made, to buy it back one day. Rush farm has taken its place and is now run to the highest certified-Demeter biodynamic and Soil Association organic standards. It creates carbon-rich soil, encourages wildlife, uses low-energy farming methods, and respects the natural behaviour of farm animals. I want to be sure it stays this way forever.”