West Country members get a Royal seal of approval
Having seen much success at last week's Bath and West Show, with the group collecting a number of awards, congratulations were even expressed in person by a very special visitor.
Anne, Princess Royal, made a point of speaking to members of the group during her visit to the show, demonstrating her interest in the dairy industry and expanding her knowledge about traditional, handmade Cheddar. She was delighted to hear that many West Country cheesemakers use milk produced on their own farms.
West Country Farmhouse Cheesemakers chairman, Philip Crawford said: "It was a pleasure for us to talk with Princess Anne and tell her more about our wonderful product, the time and effort that goes into producing traditional farmhouse Cheddar and introduce her to the people who are so passionate about their cheese making. She was absolutely charming with the members, expressing special interest in the maturing of our Cheddar and the strict guidelines that have to be met to allow the cheese to carry the West Country Farmhouse Cheesemakers label."
Other members of the group said it was an honour to speak with HRH.
Royal ploughmans for the Countess
After last years washout , the sun shone brightly on The Countess of Wessex as she attended the PDO lunch and presented Parkham farms with cups for both the reserve champion cheese and best PDO West Country Farmhouse cheddar. The show was a triumph for our other farmhouse cheesemakers too with a total of 40 medals and 7 special awards, just rewards for all the care and craftsmanship that goes into all our handmade cheeses.
Oh Come All Ye Cheese Lovers
West Country Farmhouse Cheesemakers sing their souls out for Children In Need