Community Supported Agriculture, creates a relationship of mutual support between a farmer or grower and the people who eat their produce.

People are helping to sustain local farms by making a financial commitment to Community Supported Agriculture projects. Mick Westrip and his partner Alice, run Hill Cottage Market Garden, near Knighton, Powys. Mick explains: ‘If we know that we have a certain number of customers paying in advance each month or quarter, it gives us an idea of secure income and so helps with budgeting.’

As consumers, members of the community scheme benefit from receiving fresh food from a known source. Having the opportunity to reconnect with the land and the origins of their food, allows them to improve their knowledge of seasonal produce and experience a sense of community. Participants can become more closely involved with the farm if they wish, by volunteering or taking part in special events for scheme members, such as coffee mornings. The system offers advantages to communities, not only by strengthening the local economy but also enhancing a feeling of belonging. The environmental impacts are reduced via fewer food miles and more sustainable, smaller scale farming methods.

Although the Community Supported Agriculture schemes help to support local food supplies, there is a more pressing problem for agriculture. As Mick points out: ‘Due to a lack of appealing opportunities, there’s a chronic shortage of young people willing to consider the craft of growing food as a serious career option.’

With this in mind, Hill Cottage Market Garden are seeking the funding to take on an apprentice and welcome any assistance. They have an enthusiastic person ready for the role, who they would train under the framework provided by the Soil Association’s Apprenticeship Scheme.

Mick and Alice both view this as a crucial part of making their business a truly sustainable enterprise. ‘As time goes on, the issues of food security and local provenance will be on everybody’s lips,’ explains Mick. ‘So, the sooner we can strengthen our local food economy, the better for everyone.’

Contact: Hill Cottage Market Garden,
Rhos-y-meirch, Knighton, Powys, LD7 1PD
Tel: +44 (0)1547 528315

Alice and Mick Westrip and family
Photo: © Hill Cottage Market Garden