Tom Walne, affectionately known as Farmer Tom, has dedicated his life to farming and breeding Suffolk Punch horses. Born in 1933 into a farming family in Westerfield, he and his wife Sandy have run Walnut Tree Farm for decades, raising various livestock including the iconic Suffolk Punch horses, Redpoll cattle, and Suffolk sheep. Despite farming not making him wealthy, Tom reflects on his life with gratitude and pride, especially for his achievements in breeding endangered Suffolk Punch horses, one of which was gifted to Queen Elizabeth II.

The couple’s passion for their animals extends beyond farming, as they have engaged with their community by bringing their horses and other animals to schools, creating memorable experiences for children, including a touching moment with a blind student named Melissa. Having bred horses for nearly 25 years, Tom and Sandy remain committed to their work, celebrating multiple awards and continuing their legacy with no plans to slow down.