Tim Westwood is a Hackney hero

Radio 1 DJ Tim Westwood and lamb at Hackney City Farm

Hip hop met animal husbandry this morning as Radio One DJ Tim Westwood volunteered at Hackney City Farm as part of the station’s ‘Local Hero’ campaign.

The drive is aimed at encouraging young people who are interested in volunteering, but feel they don’t have the time, to see that such pursuits can be both fun and rewarding and don’t have to be a long term commitment.

On why he chose Hackney City Farm as part of the initiative, Westwood told the Citizen: “It’s regarded as the best city farm in London and it’s a beautiful occasion. I have never experienced anything like this in my life.

“I think that it would be great fun if you got young kids to bring them here. From the helpers, you can see how much they find fulfilment and enjoyment. It’s certainly been a different experience for me, so I’m having a really great day today.”

As the sun beamed down on E2, Westwood held baby lambs, encountered enormous pigs, fed lively hens and collected eggs.

As well as highlighting volunteering opportunities for local youngsters, the day was great publicity for the farm, which is free to all and opens from 10.30am until 4.30pm throughout the summer (except Mondays). Feeding time is daily at around 4pm.

When asked if he had a message for young people in Hackney wanting to get involved with volunteer work, the star of the Radio One Rap show said, “I think it’s amazing the rewards you get, you’re actually giving yourself a real blessing, so I would really recommend it.

“There is a real feeling of family and togetherness and a lot of enjoyment, and it’s certainly something different, so it’s a great experience. I certainly wish I had found this farm when I was growing up!”

Clearly a fan of the borough, the Pimp my Ride presenter thought of Hackney as ‘a special place’ and described his shows at the Empire as ‘always good’.

He hastened, however, to deny any upcoming gigs at the Shacklewell Arms.

More information about Radio One’s Local Hero campaign and Hackney City Farm.