A DRINKS producer based on the outskirts of Chester has joined a network of artisan firms offering a delivery service of fresh produce during the coronavirus outbreak.

Ollie’s Orchard, of Tarporley, which specialises in producing single variety apple juices which all have their very own unique flavour and identity to suit all palates, is now available on 'The Butlers Larder'.

The apple juices will change from year to year since the sugar content and acidy will vary dependant on the weather conditions, amount of sunlight they are exposed to and more critically the time that the apples are picked.

Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses has brought together small artisan food and drink producers from across the North West to create the new service, that will deliver fresh produce to doorsteps in five counties in the North West - Cheshire, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Merseyside.

Butlers has brought together more suppliers and built an online platform so that it can reach even more households and involve even more small businesses.

A spokesman for the new delivery service said: "We have curated a selection of the most exciting food and drink (from cheese, milk, yoghurt and eggs to fresh bread, fruit and vegetables, tea and coffee) from the very best artisan producers in the North West, which means that people can taste the best that the region has to offer while supporting small producer businesses at a time when they really need it."

Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses is a fourth generation family business established in 1932 in rural Lancashire, creating specialist British hard, blue and soft cheeses, with milk from its own cows and goats.

Matthew Hall, 4th generation owner, said: “It’s a difficult time for many small businesses and we have found a way for them to continue doing what they do best, knowing that they can get their products to people in their own homes. Customers can safely get the products that they need from a central place and enjoy the best and most exciting artisans that the North West has to offer, all while supporting local small businesses when they really need it."

Producers who would like to be considered for the Butlers Larder or for those who want to recommend someone, contact the team at Butlers at: info@butlerslarder.co.uk

Visit www.butlerslarder.co.uk to place an order, minimum of £40. Delivery to five counties in the North West, once a week. There are no set times for delivery to ensure produce is as fresh as possible. Orders must be placed by 23:59 the day before delivery day.

Delivery schedule as follows, (none at weekends):

Monday - Lancs

Tuesday - Cheshire

Wednesday - Merseyside

Thursday - Greater Manchester

Friday - Cumbria