The owners of a Cheshire smallholding are looking to open a new farm shop as they as journey to regain some of what their family once lost.
Fred Roberts' family ran Winsor's Fruit & Veg Farm in Willington, near Kelsall, for more than 60 years before closing down in 2018 after it became financially unviable.
Prior to the closure, Fred and partner Joanne Littler opened Applecross Farm, off Hollands Lane, which they have developed into sustainable permaculture-type smallholding offering meat, honey, and cider among other produce.
Now Fred and Joanne are on a mission to open a new farm shop to fill the gap left behind by the closure of Winsor's – but with their own twist.
And to help fundraise for the new shop, Applecross Farm will be hosting a live country music night on September 6, complete with open-fire cooking, handmade desserts, craft drinks, and a community atmosphere.
Fred said: "Our family were big fruit and veg growers and we had about six farms and we supplied a lot of the fruit and veg to the Liverpool and Manchester market.
"Ten years ago, we bought land from Jo's family, and we have managed to turn our place into a sustainable permaculture-type farm, and every year we have doubled our efforts with what we have grown.
"Now we want a little farm shop to replace what our family once lost, and to be able to give people stuff that's grown in the village and supplied from no more than a 15 to 25-mile radius."
Fred and Joanne also plan to develop the space into a hub for mental health and wellbeing, with workshops, events and nature-based activities.
The couple are also working closely with butchers who provide more ethical ways of getting their meat from animals.
"We are trying to push the highest ethics we can achieve, and still be able to provide for our community."
For the event on September 6, Applecross Farm has teamed up with other independent Cheshire businesses, including Edge & Sons butchers, Bear Bakery, That Beer Place, and Vines of Cheshire.
Fred added: "It’s a proper community event, celebrating local food, music and businesses.
"This event is about more than just music," Fred added. "It’s about celebrating and supporting Cheshire’s incredible local businesses, while building something that benefits the whole community.
"Every ticket sold takes us a step closer to creating a space where people can access good, honest food and enjoy the well-being that comes from reconnecting with farming and the land."
For the full story, see Northwich Guardian