Tributes to farm shop owner who had passion for local produce
STEVE CROOT DIED AT HOME AFTER BEING TAKEN ILL
TRIBUTES have poured in following the sudden death of popular farm shop owner Steve Croot.
Mr Croot, co-founder of Croots Farm Shop with his wife Kay, died at home on Sunday, after being taken ill.
He was renowned for how much he packed into each day and his mind was always full of exciting plans for the shop or new products that he could treat his customers to.
The Croots had two children, Nicole and Jamie.
In a statement, the family said: “Family, friends and the whole team at Croots Farm Shop are devastated by the loss of Steve, who was well-known in Derbyshire for his passion for local produce, his support for the community and his dedication to helping charities.
“In accordance with family wishes, Croots Farm Shop remains open as normal. We appreciate your support and understanding at this difficult time. Please bear with us, as we try to come to terms with our loss.
“A book of condolence is being opened in the shop for any customers who would like to pay their respects, and we thank you so very much for your kind comments and messages.”
The couple founded the farm shop at Farnah House Farm, in Wirksworth Road, Duffield, in 2008.
Mr Croots was well known for his passion for local food and drink and he championed the county. In 2019 he was named Derbyshire Food Hero of the Year.
In May this year, the farm shop unveiled a fresh new look as part of its rebranding.
Old family photos were framed and hung in the cafe to reflect the history behind the farm shop.
Andie Darlington, who went on to create Derbyshire food and drink magazine Taste the Seasons after pitching the idea to Mr Croot, described him as a “Derbyshire legend”.
“He was one of the nicest people I’ve ever met – warm, cheery, genuine. He had time for everyone.
This is absolutely heartbreaking news.”
More than 1,000 tributes have been left on the farm shop’s Facebook page by well-wishers.
One said: “Only last week I so thoroughly enjoyed reading Steve’s stories of how Croots came about and his wonderful life story. I’m so glad that he shared
this. “It has been so appreciated what Steve has done with you all, especially throughout the past 18 months. “He created a safe place for everyone to shop during the most difficult time but his daily messages on Facebook have also brightened up the difficult days.” Another said: “Very saddened to read this, Steve used to supply the herbs, oils and balsamics to a restaurant I was working in many years ago, before he started the shop. He always a genuine, friendly guy and a great advocate and ambassador of local, quality produce. He will be sorely missed.”
He was one of the nicest people I’ve ever met – warm, cheery, genuine. He had time for everyone.
Andie Darlington