Growers & makers

Claire & Andrew Head

Andrew and his wife Claire having been farming at Cedar Organic Farm in the Isle of Purbeck, Dorset, since 2007. There they rear a flock of laying hens – who supply fresh, richly flavoured eggs for our boxes – as well as rearing table chickens, North Devon Ruby Red cattle and lambs.

“The eggs our hens lay are full of intense flavour and have a bright yellow yolk as the hens are able to roam freely each day,” says Andrew. “Our aim is to produce delicious meat and eggs which we hope you enjoy, in a way which honours the animals and protects the soil for future generations.”

Andrew didn’t grow up in an agricultural family, but always knew he wanted to be a farmer. He studied agriculture at Seale-Hayne College, Devon, before gaining experience in all sorts of roles, including farming deer in New Zealand. He eventually became manager of a large organic farm in Staffordshire, which is where he first learned – and became passionate about – organic methods.

“To us, it was a no brainer, and fitted in perfectly with our own views on farming practices, working alongside nature rather than dominating it,” says Andrew. After 13 years in Staffordshire, the pair were able to secure their own farming tenancy on the Isle of Purbeck, Dorset – helped by their organic ethos.

Today, they have been farming organically for over 25 years, and have a wealth of knowledge and experience. They are also long-standing Riverford veg box customers!

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