Oxbury: The UK Agricultural Bank Supporting Farmers with Tailored Finance

Running a farm is unlike running any other business. 

With seasonal cashflow, unpredictable weather, and long-term investment needs, farmers often find that traditional banks don’t fully understand their world. 

That’s where Oxbury Bank, the UK’s only dedicated agricultural bank, steps in.

Launched in 2021, Oxbury was created specifically to provide farming finance solutions for British agriculture. Its goal is simple: to support UK farmers with the right kind of financial products and help build a more sustainable food system.

What Makes Oxbury Different?

Unlike high street lenders, Oxbury is focused entirely on agriculture. This specialism means it can design agricultural loans and savings products that truly fit the needs of farmers.

Some of the standout features include:

Tailored Farming Finance – Oxbury understands the unique cashflow cycles of farming. Its products include seasonal loans and asset finance designed to help with everything from buying machinery to investing in livestock.

Oxbury Farm Credit – This flexible finance option allows farmers to purchase essentials like seed, fertiliser, or feed and spread the cost in line with income.

Digital-First Banking – Farmers can manage accounts easily through Oxbury’s digital platform, reducing reliance on branches and making rural banking more convenient.

Sustainable Farming Support – Oxbury has a strong focus on green finance, helping farmers adopt low-carbon and regenerative practices through dedicated funding options.

How Oxbury Supports British Farmers

Oxbury isn’t just a bank — it positions itself as a partner to UK agriculture. It recognises that farming is the backbone of Britain’s food supply and aims to provide financial services that strengthen the sector.

For farmers, Oxbury’s agricultural loans and credit facilities provide the breathing room needed to manage unpredictable costs and invest for the future.

For savers, Oxbury offers accounts that directly fund British farming. Instead of money disappearing into generic investments, deposits are used to support UK farm businesses.

This makes Oxbury particularly attractive for individuals who want their savings to back British agriculture while earning a competitive return.

Why Oxbury Matters

With many mainstream banks scaling back their rural services, Oxbury has stepped in to fill an important gap. By combining deep farming knowledge with modern financial tools, it offers a rare mix of personal understanding and digital efficiency.

Key reasons Oxbury stands out include:

100% focus on agriculture and farming finance

Agricultural loans designed around real farming cycles

Green funding that supports sustainable farming practices

Savings products that let individuals invest in British agriculture

In a changing world, British farmers need more than generic financial support — they need a banking partner that understands the soil beneath their feet. As the only dedicated UK agricultural bank, Oxbury is helping farmers manage their businesses today while preparing for a greener, more resilient future.

For anyone involved in farming, or simply looking to invest in the UK’s food system, Oxbury offers a fresh approach to agricultural banking — one rooted in understanding, sustainability, and long-term growth.

We met with the friendly Oxbury team at the 2025 Dairy Day Show and were most impressed.

https://www.oxbury.com

UK Dairy Day 2025 – Live from Telford

Image courtesy TIC

Yesterday, Wednesday 10th September, my wife and I were at the UK Dairy Day in Telford – and the atmosphere was buzzing. 

From the moment we walked into the International Centre, it was clear this is more than just an industry event; it’s a real celebration of everything that makes British dairy so vital.

First Impressions

The halls were packed with farmers, suppliers, vets, and industry specialists, all here to connect, learn, and showcase the very best of the UK dairy sector. 

Everywhere you look there’s something new: gleaming machinery, innovative tech solutions, cattle on display, and, of course, plenty of fantastic British dairy produce.

Highlights

The Cattle Shows – watching some of the UK’s finest dairy breeds being paraded and judged is a reminder of the dedication and care that goes into herd management. 

And we even saw some cow painting taking place. Not painting pictures of cows, as I'd originally supposed, but actually painting pictures on cows!

Trade Stands – there were hundreds of exhibitors, from feed and genetics to cutting-edge robotic milking systems to insurance experts and agricultural banks. The innovation on show is incredible.

Seminars and Talks – discussions focused heavily on sustainability, animal welfare, and how the industry can adapt to consumer trends.

Key Themes of the Day

Innovation in Farming – new technologies are helping farmers become more efficient while caring for their herds.

Sustainability – from carbon reduction to waste management, it’s clear this is at the forefront of everyone’s minds.

Celebrating Dairy – whether it’s milk in your tea, artisan cheese, or creamy yoghurts, the importance of supporting British dairy producers has never been more evident.

My Takeaway

Being here at UK Dairy Day really highlighted the passion and resilience of the farming community. It’s a chance not only to see the latest developments but also to share knowledge and celebrate what makes our dairy sector so special.

If you’re part of the industry or simply passionate about farming and food, UK Dairy Day is a must-visit event. 

https://ukdairyday.co.uk

The Growing Popularity of Cheese Restaurants in the UK

For decades, cheese has been the quiet star of the British table, a wedge of Cheddar in a Ploughman’s, Stilton at Christmas, or a late-night cheese toastie. 

But in recent years, cheese has gone from supporting act to headliner, with specialist cheese restaurants, bars, and pop-ups springing up across the UK. 

Diners are increasingly seeking out places where cheese isn’t just an ingredient, but the main event.

Why Cheese Restaurants Are Taking Off

Several trends have pushed cheese restaurants into the spotlight:

Comfort Food Appeal – Macaroni cheese, baked Camembert, and bubbling fondues are cosy, nostalgic, and indulgent. At a time when diners want meals that feel like a hug, cheese ticks the box.

The Artisan Cheese Boom – The UK now produces more varieties of cheese than France, and small dairies across the country are thriving. Cheese restaurants offer a platform to showcase regional favourites, from Cornish Yarg to Yorkshire Blue.

Food Theatre – Raclette melting at the table, fondue pots for sharing, and cheese wheels used for pasta mixing all provide the kind of interactive dining experience that customers love.

Social Media Appeal – A gooey cheese pull or a towering cheeseboard is irresistibly Instagram-friendly, driving word-of-mouth buzz.

Cheese Restaurants Around the UK

From London to the Lakes, there are plenty of places for cheese lovers to explore:

The Cheese Bar, London – Based in Camden Market, this pioneering spot celebrates British cheese with everything from cheese toasties to baked Yarg. Its sister venue, The Cheese Barge on Regent’s Canal, offers a unique floating dining experience.

The Cheese Wheel, Camden – Fresh pasta tossed inside a huge wheel of Pecorino is the star attraction here, combining Italian tradition with London’s street-food energy.

Pick & Cheese, London – The world’s first cheese conveyor belt restaurant at Seven Dials Market, where over 25 British cheeses circulate for diners to choose from.

Homage2Fromage, Various Cities – A cheese-focused supper club operating in Leeds, Manchester, and beyond, offering themed tasting events and feasts.

La Fromagerie, Marylebone & Highbury – Not strictly a restaurant, but its cafés attached to the famous cheesemonger’s shops are a haven for cheese and wine pairings.

Regional Cheese Festivals – Events like the Nantwich Cheese Show in Cheshire and the Scottish Cheese Trail have also helped spark a culture of cheese appreciation, influencing restaurants to go all-in.

Perfect Pairings: Drinks That Love Cheese

Cheese may be the star of these restaurants, but the right drink pairing can elevate the experience even further. Many UK cheese venues are embracing thoughtful pairings with wine, cider, and even craft beer:

Classic Wines – Rich, creamy cheeses such as Brie and Camembert pair beautifully with sparkling wines like English sparkling from Kent or Sussex. Harder cheeses such as Cheddar or Lincolnshire Poacher shine with bold reds like a Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon.

Cider Matches - In cider-producing regions like Somerset and Herefordshire, farmhouse Cheddars are often paired with dry, tannic ciders, a natural and distinctly British match.

Beer and Ale – Craft beer is increasingly part of the cheese conversation. A hoppy IPA cuts through the richness of blue cheese, while a malty stout complements smoked or mature varieties.

Fortified Wines – Stilton and Port is a Christmas classic, but many restaurants are experimenting with sherries and Madeiras alongside strong British blues.

Non-Alcoholic Options – For those avoiding alcohol, kombucha and speciality soft drinks with sharp, fruity notes can provide balance against the richness of cheese.

🧀 Must-Try British Cheeses

If you’re visiting a cheese restaurant in the UK, keep an eye out for these standout varieties, which showcase the diversity of British cheesemaking:

Cornish Kern (Cornwall) – A nutty, Gouda-style hard cheese, crowned Supreme Champion at the World Cheese Awards.

Tunworth (Hampshire) – Often called the “British Camembert”, soft and oozy with earthy, mushroomy notes.

Stinking Bishop (Gloucestershire) – Famous for its pungent aroma, this washed-rind cheese is surprisingly mild in flavour.

Yorkshire Blue (Yorkshire Dales) – Creamy, buttery, and less sharp than continental blue cheeses.

Lincolnshire Poacher (Lincolnshire) – A hard cheese combining the tang of Cheddar with the fruitiness of Alpine styles.

Cornish Yarg (Cornwall) – Wrapped in nettle leaves, giving it a fresh, lemony tang.

Isle of Mull Cheddar (Scotland) – Robust, tangy Cheddar made from raw cow’s milk, with a distinctive grassy flavour.

What the Future Holds

With the boom in British artisan cheesemaking and a growing appetite for experiential dining, the trend for cheese-led restaurants looks set to grow. Expect to see more regional venues celebrating local dairies, creative vegan cheese menus, and collaborations with breweries and wineries.

Cheese is no longer just the accompaniment to a meal — it’s the reason people are booking a table.

https://www.thecheesebar.com/

https://www.cheesewheellondon.com/

https://www.thecheesebar.com/seven-dials/

https://homage2fromage.co.uk/

https://lafromagerie.co.uk/

Cornwall's Firebrand Wins Double Gold for Shorebreak at International Non-Alcoholic Competition

Cornwall's Firebrand Brewing Co. is delighted to announce that its non-alcoholic hazy pale, Shorebreak, has won Double Gold at the International Non-Alcoholic Drinks Competition. 

This follows hot on the heels of being named Britain's Best Non-Alcoholic Pale Ale at the World Beer Awards and puts it firmly on the world beer map.

Co-owner and Head Brewer at Firebrand Brewing Co., Joe Thomson told That's Food and Drink: “Winning Double Gold at the International Non-Alcoholic Competition is a huge moment for us. 

"Shorebreak was created to give drinkers a full-flavoured, hop-forward beer without compromise, and to see it recognised by such a respected panel of judges is incredible.The awards were held in New York and we were up against beers from across the globe so this is a huge international accolade. 

The non-alcoholic category is growing quickly and to be leading the way with one of our core beers is something we're really proud of.”

At 0.5% ABV, Shorebreak is a non-alcoholic hazy pale which is packed with vibrant hop flavour. Brewed with Simcoe, Citra and Cascade hops, it delivers all the juicy, tropical flavour of a full-strength hazy pale but without the hangover. 

Smooth and light, this IPA is also gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and just 35 calories per can.

Joe adds: “When I started the brewery over a decade ago, alcohol-free beer wasn't on the popularity radar. 

"But after I took up running, finding a great-tasting alternative to my daily pint that wouldn't derail my training, became a passion project for me. That's where Shorebreak came from. 

"The response to this IPA has been phenomenal, with it now being one of our best-sellers, and having it recognised again by industry experts makes the journey even more rewarding.”

On the edge of the historic Bodmin Moor in North Cornwall, Firebrand Brewing Co was created in 2012. Born in an old converted milking parlour, the idea came from a passion for beer that is made from all-natural ingredients, including Cornish spring water and American hops. 

Now based in Launceston, their purpose-built brewery uses the finest ingredients and aims to 'Go Beyond The Usual', encouraging drinkers to explore new flavours and discover something new in every sip.

The International Non-Alchoholic Competition celebrates the finest creations from around the globe, blind-tasted by expert judges. Double Golds are the highest accolade and only awarded to products unanimously considered to be phenomenal by the panel of judges.

Shorebreak is available in 440ml cans direct from www.firebrandbrewing.co.uk, RRP £2.70 and other retail and hospitality outlets.

Affiliate links are available through www.Amazon.co.uk.

Devon's Sandford Orchards' Red Zero Named World's Best No-Alcohol Cider

Devon-based Sandford Orchards' Red Zero has just won gold and been named Best Non-Alcoholic Cider at the World Cider Awards, less than a year after it was launched. 

This latest accolade follows gold awards from Taste of the West and The Farm Shop and Deli Awards, with undoubtedly more to come.

Barny Butterfield, founder of Sandford Orchards told That's Food and Drink: “We took our time creating Red Zero because we like to do things properly at Sandford Orchards. It was not the first non-alcoholic cider to market but we like to think that it is one of the best and it seems that the experts agree. 

"Winning Best Non-Alcoholic Cider at the World Cider Awards recognises all the hard work and effort we put into making Red Zero and puts it firmly on the global cider map as the best in the world!"

Red Zero (ABV 0.5%) is an utterly delicious, crisp and fruity non-alcoholic cider created from fabulous apple varieties including Farmers Glory, Dabinett and Sweet Alford. Created using traditional cider methods and the same technology used for creating Guinness Zero, you're drinking the real fermented drink, but with the alcohol extracted.  

Barny continues: “We chose to make Red Zero in the most expensive way because we weren't prepared to compromise on quality and the result is on another level. 

"In its short life, Red Zero has already won rave reviews from our customers but this accolade is the icing on the cake and a testament to our team's efforts. I am really proud of how hard they've worked to produce a cider with the same attention to detail as our flagship Devon Red.

"Red Zero tastes so good that most people can not believe it is not alcoholic- we call it alcohol-free cider, done right.”

Founded in 2002, independent, family-owned Sandford Orchards is based in Crediton, Mid Devon in the oldest working cider mill in the UK. 

The area has long been known as one of the most fertile parishes in all of Britain, both for its grazing and ability to grow apples. Crediton sits in the lee of the moors, so receives the right amount of rain and the right units of heat in summer.

Sandford Orchards takes a fresh, natural and low impact approach to producing cider. Combining tradition and innovation, Sandford Orchards produces an award-winning range of core session, traditional, fine and fruit ciders.

The World Cider Awards celebrate the best ciders from across the globe. For more information visit www.worldciderawards.com.

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The Future of Food: Lab-Grown Meat, 3D Printing, and Small Business Opportunities

The global food industry is evolving faster than ever, driven by climate change, consumer demand for sustainable choices, and advances in technology. 

Two major innovations attracting attention are lab-grown meat (also called cultivated meat) and 3D printing of food. Both could dramatically reshape how we source, cook, and consume food.

But what does this mean for small businesses, independent restaurants, and local food producers? Let’s explore the pros and cons of lab-grown meat, the advantages and disadvantages of 3D printing food, and how smaller enterprises could get involved in this growing sector.

What Is Lab-Grown Meat?

Lab-grown meat, or cultivated meat, is produced by growing animal cells in a controlled environment rather than raising and slaughtering livestock.

Pros of Lab-Grown Meat

Sustainable food production: Lower greenhouse gas emissions, water use, and land requirements.

Animal welfare benefits: No animals need to be slaughtered.

Healthier meat: Potential for reduced saturated fats, no antibiotics, and boosted nutrition.

Stable supply: Less affected by disease outbreaks or farming disruptions.

Cons of Lab-Grown Meat

Expensive technology: Still far costlier than conventional meat.

Consumer hesitation: Some people are wary of “lab food”.

Regulatory approval: Varies by country and can delay market entry.

Specialist infrastructure: Requires advanced facilities and training.

What Is 3D Printed Food?

3D printing of food uses machines to create edible items layer by layer, often using purees, doughs, proteins, or alternative ingredients.

Pros of 3D Printing Food

Customisation: Meals tailored for dietary needs, aesthetics, or medical requirements.

Creative design: Unique textures, shapes, and artistic presentations.

Waste reduction: Precise ingredient use minimises food waste.

Sustainability options: Can use plant proteins, algae, or insect-based ingredients.

Cons of 3D Printing Food

High equipment costs: Advanced printers are expensive.

Slow production: Printing food can be time-consuming.

Consumer scepticism: Diners may resist unfamiliar food formats.

Ingredient limitations: Not all foods are suitable for printing.

Hygiene and cross-contamination. 3D printing machines must be kept clean to the highest standards.

How Small Businesses Can Get Involved

Even though these technologies are still developing, there are practical ways for small businesses, restaurants, and caterers to explore opportunities now.

1. Restaurants and Cafés

Introduce 3D-printed desserts, pasta, or garnishes to stand out from competitors.

Trial lab-grown meat menu items (when available in the UK market) to attract eco-conscious diners.

Offer personalised dining experiences for events, weddings, or themed menus.

2. Independent Food Producers

Launch niche businesses specialising in artisanal 3D-printed snacks or edible art.

Partner with cultivated meat start-ups to explore early distribution and branding opportunities.

Experiment with alternative proteins to appeal to vegan and flexitarian markets.

3. Catering and Event Services

Create showstopping 3D-printed food designs for high-end catering.

Use food printing to make nutritionally tailored meals for schools, hospitals, or care homes.

Offer sustainable catering packages highlighting innovative food technologies.

Lab-grown meat and 3D food printing may still seem futuristic, but they’re fast becoming reality. For UK small businesses in food and drink, this is an opportunity to get ahead of the curve, attract forward-thinking customers, and build sustainable branding.

The challenges—costs, consumer scepticism, and regulation—are real. But as these technologies mature, they will become more accessible. Entrepreneurs who start experimenting today could be tomorrow’s industry leaders.

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Celebrate Talk Like a Pirate Day with a Party Full of Pirate Food and Drinks

Ahoy, me hearties! Shiver me timbers! On 19th September, the world comes alive with a hearty "Arrr!" as we celebrate Talk Like a Pirate Day. 

What better excuse to throw a themed party packed with food, drink, and fun worthy of the seven seas? 

Whether you’re planning a family gathering, a children’s adventure, something at school, or an adults-only shindig, here are some ideas to make your party a treasure chest of delights.

Pirate-Themed Foods

When it comes to pirate fare, think rustic, hearty, and fun. Pirates at sea may have lived on hardtack and salted meat, but your guests deserve a feast!

Captain’s Feast Platter: Pile up roast chicken drumsticks, ribs, sausages, and crusty bread on wooden boards for a rugged pirate feel.

Seafood Galore: Serve prawns, crab claws, calamari, or fish and chips wrapped in paper cones.

Treasure Map Pizza: Create pizzas topped with ingredients shaped like “X marks the spot” or treasure chests.

Cannonball Meatballs: Juicy meatballs served with a smoky BBQ or rum glaze.

Gold Coin Snacks: Mini cheese rounds or chocolate coins wrapped in gold foil scattered on the table as edible treasure.

Pirate’s Plank Dessert: A long wooden board topped with brownies, flapjacks, and fruit skewers, ready for sharing.

Pirate Drinks for All Ages

No pirate party is complete without a tankard of grog! Luckily, you can make themed drinks that both kids and adults will enjoy.

Pirate Punch (alcohol-free): A mix of pineapple juice, orange juice, grenadine, and lemonade served in a big bowl with floating orange “gold coins.”

Rum Cocktails: Classics like Dark ’n’ Stormy (rum and ginger beer) or a Mai Tai fit the theme perfectly.

Coconut Cups: Serve tropical cocktails or mocktails in hollowed coconuts or novelty pirate mugs.

The Black Pearl: Cola or spiced rum with blackberries muddled in for a dark, mysterious drink.

Party Extras

To make the day unforgettable, lean into the swashbuckling spirit:

Hand out pirate hats, eye patches, and plastic swords.

Play sea shanties or classic pirate soundtracks (think Pirates of the Caribbean).

Set up a treasure hunt for kids with chocolate coins or small trinkets.

Encourage everyone to speak in their best pirate lingo throughout the party.

Talk Like a Pirate Day is the perfect excuse to break out your inner buccaneer and enjoy a themed feast with friends and family. 

With hearty pirate-inspired food, tropical drinks, and plenty of nautical fun, you’ll have a party that even Blackbeard himself would envy.

So polish your cutlass, raise your flagon, and get ready to shout a mighty “Yo-ho-ho!”

Celebrate International Dot Day with Food, Drink and Creative Fun for All Ages

Every year on 15th September, people around the world celebrate International Dot Day, inspired by Peter H. Reynolds’ book The Dot. 

It’s a day dedicated to creativity, self-expression and making your mark, and what better way to celebrate than with colourful food, drinks and activities that everyone can enjoy?

Dot-Themed Food Ideas

Bring the theme to life on your table with these fun ideas:

Polka Dot Biscuits – Bake plain sugar biscuits and decorate them with bright icing dots or colourful sprinkles.

Spotty Cupcakes – Top each cupcake with smarties, jelly tots or little icing dots.

Mini Pizza Dots – Use small pitta breads or round crackers topped with cheese, tomato and a variety of toppings arranged in circular shapes.

Fruit Dots – Skewer grapes, blueberries, strawberries and melon balls for a healthy “dotty” fruit kebab.

Cheese Ball Platter – Roll cheese into bite-sized dots and pair with crackers.

Creative Drinks

Drinks can be just as fun and spotty as the food:

Bubble Tea – The tapioca pearls are perfect edible “dots.”

Fruit Spritzers – Add round slices of lemon, lime, orange and floating berries to sparkling water or lemonade.

Hot Chocolate with Marshmallow Dots – Top with mini marshmallows to make a dot pattern.

Creative Fun for All Ages

Dot Day is about creativity, so make sure to bring out the pens, paints and imagination. Here are a few activities:

Dot Painting – From cotton buds to paintbrush tips, create dot art inspired by Aboriginal dot paintings or colourful polka-dot patterns.

Collaborative Dot Mural – Cover a wall or large sheet of paper with dots added by everyone who visits.

DIY T-shirts or Tote Bags – Fabric paint and round stamps make for brilliant wearable dot art.

Storytime – Read The Dot aloud and encourage children (and adults!) to “make their mark.”

Dot Hunt – Create a scavenger hunt around the house or garden, looking for naturally occurring dots, circles and spots.

A Celebration for All Ages

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just someone who loves creativity, International Dot Day is a chance to bring people together with fun, food and imagination. From spotty cakes to dot paintings, it’s all about celebrating the power of creativity and self-expression.

So put on something spotty, get the paints and sprinkles out, and let’s make International Dot Day a colourful celebration for all!