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an ulterior motive to this treat as James had arranged not just one , but two farm visits to see 2 herds of Dexter cattle . At the second farm visit , the farm had opened its doors to the public , and they were amazed at the number of people buying Dexter beef boxes – light bulb moment – “ Can we do that ?” They now currently have six Dexters and calves , bought from the first farm they visited , which run alongside the commercial herd .
Isn ’ t it funny how history can repeat itself ? As we know despite COVID , the economic climate has been changing for farmers in general . These days , many farms are realising that to survive and protect income , diversification is becoming more and more popular across all sectors . It was this and the birthday treat that made James and Suzanne decide to change ; rather than sell the grass-fed cattle at auction where prices cannot be guaranteed they are going to sell it locally , using local abattoirs and butchers ,
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drastically reducing both the carbon footprint and field to fork journey and yes , you guessed it , they are also selling direct from the farmhouse door again . You can order from their Facebook page as well as the website . There is a range of beef in boxes of selected cuts , or you can choose separately the cuts you want at the weights you want , depending on what is in stock .
‘ the Rangeleys do not do anythingby halves ’ The other great beauty of the service is that you can pick up your meat fresh or frozen from the door . Contactless delivery is also available in the Huddersfield area as well .
So , despite lockdown and the challenges this year has thrown up , the Rangeley family have really forged ahead with the business change ,
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launching their brand Burton Beef , complete with website , themed packaging , and their own monogrammed workwear ! The first cow went to slaughter in September , they are now on their third . The range is already growing with the introduction of Tomahawk Steaks , Steak Sausages , Flat Iron Steaks , Fajita / Stir Fry Steak and 2 Rib Roasts . They are proud to already have been awarded a five-star food rating .
Even whilst I was there chatting in the kitchen , customers
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were turning up to collect . They currently have two large chest freezers , with more on the way to accommodate the demand as it increases .
James was telling me that the local community as they were many years ago have been very supportive . People really like to see the well cared for animals in the field , it gives people much more confidence in what they are buying and eating .
I asked about plans for the future . “ Well ,” James said , “ we want to see how it goes , but
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the main idea is to future-proof the business and provide a good wage for Jack as well . We have some lambs to sell in the Spring , alongside some Dexter beef and we are considering pork as well , but one step at a time .”
Well , all I can say is the Rangeleys do not do anything by halves , everything is well thought out , organised and professional . Burton Beef is all set to be another champion of farm diversification and we wish them all the best .
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