Cheesemaker says products are ‘best they have been’ as he scoops prestigious county award
A cheesemaker proudly said his products are the “best they have ever been” as he scooped a prestigious county award.
Gary Bradshaw of Hamm Tun Fine Foods picked up the ‘Artisan Local Product of the Year’ title for his blue cheese at the Weetabix Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards earlier this month.
“I’m very surprised actually,” said Gary, who was awarded silver last year and wondered whether he would take home gold in 2024.
When asked whether an award win like this makes the hard work worthwhile, Gary told the Chronicle & Echo: “It’s been a tough year so things like this – and nights like this – give you recognition and make it worthwhile. They give you a lift and more impetus to carry on and believe in your products.”
Having announced the sad closure of the Hamm Tun Fine Foods deli after five years in Long Buckby’s High Street earlier this year, Gary said cheese was going to be his focus moving forward.
“At the moment, our cheese is the best it’s ever been,” he said. “It’s taken us seven years to perfect the recipe. We’ve just changed milk suppliers as well so there’s a lot of messing around with recipes. We’ve just got it back to where it is and this award is really good.”
It is shaping up to be a busy end to the year for Hamm Tun, with many markets and food shows lined up in the run up to Christmas.
The business owner explained the rise in demand for blue cheese during the festive period and he will be offering four different varieties this year.
Gary said: “Christmas is going to be insane. We’ve just taken on a couple of new customers and they’re ordering huge amounts of cheese.”
The business owner was pleased to attend the awards ceremony and be surrounded by other talented producers from across the county – especially as it meant he was able to take a day off at what is a busy time.
Talking about continuing to support independent businesses, Gary concluded: “It’s more important than ever because we’re burdened with the cost of living. We understand people are struggling, and handmade products are a little bit more expensive, but you get what you pay for.”