Mystery Object

Today we went to a country Fair at Sherborne Castle, it was a good day out.
Rob got talking to an elderly guy on a stall where they had some old sheep farming tools and photos.
On the table were a few object that had been bought at farm sales including this wooden handled tool. I had a go with it. With a finger in the loop it acts like a picker upper a bit like the modern ones you by for invalids or litter pickers.
The people did not know what this object is

DO YOU KNOW WHAT IT IS??

I have a feeling it could have been home made but not sure, wondered if any one has any idea?!