Butchers prove they can cut it in national awards
Falleninch Farm has excelled at the Scottish Craft ButcherTraining Awards.
The local company, which operates a butchers shop from the farm at the foot of Stirling Castle and sponsors the Observer’s Friday butcher boy game, achieved finalists in four of the five categories, and won two.
The awards, held in Uphall at the weekend, reward the achievements and efforts of trainees, mentors and employers in Scottish craft butchery.
Mark Ramsay was named Training Mentor of the Year, having been nominated by three of his trainees.
He was described as a“highly motivated individual who has a great ability to read individuals and get the best out of each and every team member”and as a“role model and inspiration, always willing to share his knowledge, skills and expertise and always encouraging people to better themselves”.
One of Mark’s apprentices, Nicola Gaffney, took home the SVQ Level 3 Modern Apprentice of the Year award, having overcome a number of obstacles, as well as experiencing redundancy and relocation at previous firms. She managed to progress to her SVQ level 3 once securing a position with Falleninch Farm. All this was despite being dyslexic.
Her enthusiasm and her ability to take responsibility for her own development was said to have allowed her to produce“excellent”evidence for her portfolio.
On achieving her Level 3 the adventure scout leader also immediately asked her employer if she could work towards the Federation Diploma, which she will now begin after the festive period while also planning her wedding next summer.
The company’s owner Andrew Hornall was a finalist in the Training Partner of the Year category. Falleninch Farm Butchers has been working with Scottish Meat Training for five years. They now have 12 full time members of staff, six of whom have completed a Modern Apprentice Qualification with Scottish Meat Training. Two more staff members are about to start Modern Apprentice qualifications.
Meanwhile, Erin Conroy was a finalist for the Extra Mile Award, having been nominated by several customers.
One, Eileen Stewart, said:“I am a regular visitor to Falleninch Farm Shop and I cannot stress enough the level of service I receive from Erin on every occasion. Nothing is ever a problem and is always done with a smile. I think she is a fantastic butcher.”