Stewart and Jean Pickering, who founded kidsunlimited nurseries, have taken over the day to day running of the shop and cafe at Horseshoe Farm.
Whilst it's 'business as usual' at the farm, Jean and Stewart are working with their children Simon and Sadie to introduce a number of new ideas and events in the run up to Christmas, whilst Andy Morrison continues to work on the land.
Jean told me "We sold kidsunlimited and Stewart recently sold his recording studio in Cheadle Hulme so we've been looking for something to get our teeth stuck into. We thought about retiring in Majorca but whilst we love it out there we are not ready to retire yet.
"The whole essence of what we intend to do here is keep it local, reduce food miles and support local producers as much as we can.
"We need to focus on how the food is produced, how it comes to the table and work with what is in season. Now you can get anything you want at any time and I'm not sure that's good for our health.
"We need to respect the land and food more and respect how it is produced. We need to support our farmers."
Andy added "It's business as usual. Stewart and Jean have come on board over Christmas because it was getting harder and harder for me to run everything. I can now get back to running the farm, dealing with the animals and producing the food."
The local family only took over front of house last week but already they are making their mark. The farm shop has been painted and Jean is introducing some feminine touches.
Jean explained "The farm shop can be beautiful. The main focus is food but we will be adding a few more things such as candles, Christmas cards and cut flowers."
The family are also keen to introduce some healthy options such as hot soups and fresh juices, which will be ideal for detoxing during the party season.
The existing team of staff are staying and have been joined by Simon Chapman, previously of Alan Jackson, who has taken over the butchery where people will now be able to buy cuts in addition to pre-packed meat.
There will also be a tasting table so visitors can sample what is produced on the farm and a company called Flour, Water, Salt will also be working alongside the Pickerings. Paul and Eva will be baking on the site twice a week using the traditional methods for baking bread.
The whole family are now involved at Horseshoe Farm with Simon, 32, working alongside Andy doing the eggs and turkeys, as well as coordinating the Christmas trees.
Looking to the future, Jean told me "We are where we are now. We are trading the farm and we have a long term view to continue to increase the offering and develop the business but the farm is on the market."
Horseshoe Farm will be holding an Open Day on Saturday 3rd December, from 11am to 3pm. There will be children's rides, the animals will be around and visitors will be able to taste all the produce on offer.
Photo: (l-r) Stewart, Jean, Sadie, Andy, Simon and Suzie.
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