Harriet & Martin, Border Berries

Grandpa started out 30 years ago to supply jam factories and wholesale markets. This provided (and still does) work for women and children living on nearby farms and continues to be an important part of community life.

Martin:  I took over and brought in new types of berries and kept all the local school kids out of trouble by employing them as pickers in their summer holidays. These days pick your own has taken over as families, jam-makers and tourists all come to spend time in our bountiful fields.

Harriet: I picked fruit for pocket money, helped myself to berries and made jam to sell in the field from the age of 12, and have done my turn manning the pick-your-own caravan as a student. I’ve now returned home for good to open a café selling berry filled baking alongside our very own smoothies and juices.

How we like to eat it best: Naturally we enjoy a little taste while we roam the rows but Dad loves a rich chocolate cake with tayberry and cream in the middle. I just love crushed fruit and cream in all different ways - Eton mess, compote and homemade icecream, glistening jellies...