The Farmers Mart Oct/Nov 2015 - Issue 42 | Page 57

The Hirst Family nearby producing high quality jams, preserves, biscuits, soups, vegetables etc, and with increasing demand for such produce, the shop is full of quality goods and products from local suppliers, many who supply them exclusively. I arrived at 9am, pausing only to admire the breathtaking views, in at but it was already busy with a friendly, lively atmosphere. Initially they started with one good chef but as demand grew, they now have no less than four - and the restaurant is open every day with fresh and varied menus. They have won the coveted award of the best farm shop breakfast in England and runner up as the best breakfast in England. Pretty impressive stuff! The Shop and Cafe didn’t happen overnight and the family admits it really was trial and error as they went along with careful investment and carefully not overstepping the financial mark. They have always believed in making the money before spending it. Recently, they have installed a biomass boiler which they got just in the nick of time before tariffs dropped, added to which they have solar panels from which they make substantial long term cost savings. Laura is not one to blow her own trumpet but the family is very proud of her not just for her food skills but also her musical accomplishments: she is a champion cornet and flugel player and plays for the world-renowned Grimethorpe Colliery Band, but it doesn’t stop there: she was also the first female to play for the renowned Brighouse and Rastrick brass band in 135 years! While establishing the shop and restaurant Laura had to cut back on band commitments as the shop’s busiest time was weekends, but she has now started to play again. I asked David and Laura about the future and they explained that they want to get even “better before bigger”, continue to invest in new equipment and fittings in the shop and involve the farm more in the shop by having shearing and sheepdog demonstrations, areas in which the public can view the animals. Ever full of ideas, Laura & Paul have launched the drive through Hog Roast which is set up in the car park just below the shop. This complements another side line - the hog roast service they provide for functions and weddings, again only using the best free range pork. Annette and David work hard but really enjoy life and can now see a thriving business that will continue to support the family and sustain another 100 years of Hirsts In Delph. We wish them continued success. OUR FARM INSURANCE PROTECTS THE VERY THINGS YOU DEPEND ON TO EARN A LIVING Peace of mind you have the right cover for your farm. Proud to be associated with Albion Farm and Farm Shop. Call 01484 664 119 for a quote or pop in Cowley House, Queens Square Business Park, Holmfirth, Honley, HD9 6QZ You can also call us via our customer support centre between 5.00pm and 6.00pm Monday to Friday, from 9.00am to 12.30pm on Saturdays and bank holidays. Agent of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited. For security and training purposes, telephone calls may be recorded and monitored. www.farmers-mart.co.uk Oct/Nov 2015 57