Stay Loyal to Local series – The Wood Fired Larder is firing on all cylinders

Could you start by telling us how the last few weeks have been for you?

The last few weeks have generally been good for us. We have fortunately been able to remain open at our Shepherd Hut at Priory Farm as we’re running a take-out café. The downside is that we’ve had to operate using our immediate family as no staff are allowed due to social distancing, so that has been quite tiring. We’ve had to postpone a lot of weddings, and events have been cancelled, which has been a big financial hit for us. We also don’t qualify for any government assistance, as we have spent the last four years ploughing everything back in to build up the business – so no profits.

What positive steps have you taken to get through the lockdown?  

We’ve managed to continue operating at Priory Farm, albeit with restricted hours. We’ve also managed to keep our pitch in our home village of Brockham on Wednesday evenings. Due to social distancing, we’ve modified our offering, working from home with our teardrop caravan and offering home deliveries for self-isolating or vulnerable residents, as well as a pre-order/pre-paid collection service. We’ve also been donating free pizzas to residents who have found themselves in hardship during the pandemic.

Are there any innovations of which you are particularly proud?

As the hours increase back up to normal at Priory Farm, we have recently invested in a 2m x 2m gazebo, which we put up behind the Shepherd Hut. This means that we can welcome back a team member to help us during busy times, whilst retaining our social distancing measures.

How have your customers been supporting you during this time? 

Our customers have been so supportive and we are so grateful to them. The residents of Brockham have been placing orders – some every week – as they want us to be able to keep going. They respect us for working hard and continuing to provide a service and they’ve been so grateful to be get a take-away and not have to cook! The customers at Priory Farm have welcomed us and they are also grateful to be able to buy refreshments whilst waiting in line for the farm shop. Many have been saying things like: “This is the first proper coffee I’ve had in weeks!” and “It’s so great that you’re here!”

Are there any special measures you’ll be bringing in once you get back to more normality, events etc? 

I think this has highlighted the importance of good hygiene in the workplace. I don’t think we’ll bring any further special measures in but more reinforce what we already have in place. We respect the situation, our staff and customers, and keeping everyone safe is always a priority for us.

Why is it so important that people ‘Stay Loyal To Local’ going forward?

I really believe that there has been a shift as a result of this pandemic. I think that people have seen how hard the little independents have worked to keep things running for them and it has showcased so many wonderful, local businesses with fabulous products that they may not have noticed before. I really think that a lot of people will continue to support local more often in future.

What’s the best way that our community can do that for now?  

Just keep on doing what you’re doing. Spend a few pounds buying from local independents and we will continue to support our communities.