So then the Evil Empire (you know the one, the 'T' one) seems to think that the Cotswolds is its own private stomping ground, and that every street corner should be emblazoned with that hideous blue, red and white logo of a business that is intent on devouring every single thing it's path, until no-one has a choice where they shop. In a town were the population is c19,000 how on earth do we 'need' 3 of the damm things, and 2 of them are the super duper style ones, and all within a 1 mile radius of each other... Argh! Now I'm not beating an eco-warrior drum, but there are more ethically minded, better, fresher alternatives, and ones that in this period of economic problems (I am fed up with the term 'credit crunch') need our support. £1.50 chickens may look appealing to the purse, but really what can be good about a small, cheap chicken, that's been plumped up with water to make it look more attractive??
Anyway,having finally got his Lordship to agree that any supermarket shopping can be done else where, not that we have a huge amount of choice in the middle of the Cotswolds, we are now making a 100% commitment to purchasing as much as possible at our local farm shop and butchers, Chesterton Farm Shop.
The thing I really really like about Chesterton, is it is a genuine farm shop, a shop on a farm, not one of the many that seem to be appearing at an alarming frequency. Ok so the produce is the same, produced by local growers and farmers, many are more a commercial venture aimed at those who wish to feel better about themselves in a small way. But Chesterton is very much a family business, starting back in the 1960's selling potatoes from the back door of the farmhouse, with arable farming and a fine looking dairy herd and masses of the most stunning local fruit and veggies. And that's not even mentioning the fantastic butcher on site too, specialising in Rare Breeds Survival and being the first RBST accredited butcher in England. Add to this the ethical consideration of local and fresh, the butchery supply the most gorgeous, tender meat I've tasted in a long time, with animals being allowed to grow at their
own pace without unnecessary and nasty drugs!
I suppose what I'm trying to say is, its out there on your doorstep, within the 1 mile radius of the Evil Empire so why shouldn't we use it. Food tastes so much nicer than when its pumped full of water and growth chemicals. Support your local farmer! I bet you find that the food lasts longer, is better quality, tastes 100% more tastier and actually is cheaper...
Go on... find out your nearest farm shop at Farma