[Dans]

So, looking at my 6 sheep (4 of which should definatley be in lamb), the 1.5 acres we have for them and the length of the grass in each of thier 'paddocks' I'm starting to feel we need some more land. There are 3 small (~2 acres each) areas of grazing within a 5 min walk from us. We've only lived here 18 months and a hay crop was taken from 2 of those areas last summer (didn't see the third).

Would it be crazy to just write a letter to the owners asking if they would be interested in renting or selling the areas? I used the land registry to get contact details for one of the areas so I know where the owner lives (just up the road). The issue I'm having is it feels like cold calling to just turn up at the door and knock and ask, and feels rude to drop a letter in and run. Am I just being too socially akward? Is there another way?

Has anyone done something similar and how did you go about it. 2 of the areas would need fencing, do you work something out in terms of rent to take into account fencing costs?

Dans

[Lesley Silvester]

If you don't ask, you won't know. You'd kick yourself if someone else started renting them.

[pharnorth]

Just go and ask. It is unlikely to offend and if they aren't interested at least you will have met a neighbour and had a nice chat about sheep.

[Sbom]

Definitely go and ask, if won't do any harm and the worse that can happen is they say no.

[Big Light]

I've Got a field last year by chappin the door  I explained myself left a business card and made an offer ( lamb and cash)of what I would give in return and how it would work - it was accepted - shy bairns get no sweeties ;0)

[bj_cardiff]

I'd leave a note and if you don't get a response call in. I hate being put on the spot and my default answer to anything when put on the spot is 'no' I do find that given 24hrs to think through a scenario and I'm happier to say yes or suggest a compremise