Farm cafe reopens for business
CANALSIDE Farm near Stafford has reopened its cafe after being closed due to the coronavirus pandemic for three months. The family-run farm, which has been growing its own produce for more than 35 years, built the large waterfront cafe six years ago with the aim of serving fresh, local produce from nearby suppliers and food straight from their farm. Farm co-owner Anna Barton said: “We were absolutely devastated when we had to close the cafe at the end of March, but of course our top priority was to keep our customers safe. Luckily we were able to keep our farm shop open, but it has been very quiet and strange not having the cafe open too. “We were therefore delighted when we found out that we could reopen and have implemented a number of new systems to ensure that people can visit safely. Orders for food are being taken at our takeaway hut outside and once the food is cooked in our cafe kitchen, visitors can collect their meals and sit on our large decking area overlooking the canal.” She added that the inside area would remain closed for the moment, but this would be reviewed in the next few weeks, following further guidance. The farm shop and cafe is open every day from 9am to 4pm beside the Trent & Mersey Canal at Great Haywood, six miles outside Stafford. It is situated just off the A51 between Stone and Rugeley or can be accessed via the A518 from Stafford, turning right to Great Haywood (postcode ST18 0RQ). Contact 01889 881747 or visit www.canalsidefarm.co.uk