William Little was born at Linden Farm, Baldwinholme. On leaving school he worked in partnership with his brother Thomas, and his father until his death, on the 200 acre farm. Linden Farm was mainly dairy with a small beef unit.
In his late teens William became a member of Raughton Head Young Farmers Club, going on to hold the office of Chairman twice and then Treasurer. This gave him valuable experience in public speaking, quizzes, debating groups, stock judging and all things rural. At around this time he also ran a very successful youth club in Dalston Methodist Church for around ten years.
He became a parish councillor for Orton Parish in 1983 and was appointed chairman three years later. In 1994 he was appointed onto the executive committee of Carlisle Parish Council’s Association, going on to become vice chairman. He is also vice president of Dalston Agricultural Show for Life.
Following the outbreak of Foot and Mouth in February 2001, William saw the devastating effects it had on the local community. When he was asked to join the Liaison Committee at the Foot and Mouth burial site on Gt Orton airfield, he was therefore happy to take the opportunity. He subsequently realised the potential the site had for future development as a nature reserve with special emphasis on education. He also saw this as an opportunity to take away the stigma of Foot and Mouth for local communities. Consequently, he became one of the founding members of Watchtree Nature Reserve. He really enjoys leading walks, giving talks and contributing to the general running of the site as a Director.