A Dales chef has expanded his business by taking on a popular Wensleydale cafe and farm shop.
Guy Fairhurst and wife Elena have taken on the running of Berry’s at Swinithwaite.
The move only came about following a chance conversation with owner Bridget Thornton-Berry.
Bridget told the chef they were looking for someone to take on the premises and Guy said he immediately knew it would be a good fit for his business, which was previously based at the Key Centre in Middleham.
Guy said he wanted to build on the work already done by the Thornton-Berrys and to build the business with trade from both visitors and locals.
He said: “We live in an area with amazing produce and suppliers on our doorstep which we will continue to use, including meat from Campbells of Leyburn, fantastic cheese from the Wensleydale Creamery and locals beers.
“We plan to run events such as produce fairs, music nights and themed events, and encourage people to come and enjoy the great walks that are on offer from Swinithwaite.
“There’s lots of hard work to do but I’m really excited about the opportunity.”
Guy has been running a catering business in the Dales for the last decade, firstly with his mum Susan and more recently with Elena.
He hopes that by expanding, with more staff to help with the day to day running of the business, he will be able to spend more time with his 8-month-old daughter Bella.
