A FARMER’s novel idea is proving to be a recipe for success with Christmas shoppers in Teesdale keen to serve up sumptuous platters this festive season.
Oak serving boards of every shape and size were on offer at Barnard Castle Farmers’ Market earlier this month when Rokeby farmer Peter Moss joined traders for their last visit of the year. Grazing boards have been around for centuries and are ideal for social occasions.
Mr Moss, who enjoys the odd social gathering with his family and friends, hit upon the idea of creating his grazing boards at his home at Ewe Bank Farm, Rokeby, after a holiday in Australia last year.
He said: “We drove about 2,500 miles in the outback and went to this farmers’ market. I saw some wooden grazing boards and thought I would have a go when I got home.”
After investing in a specialist saw to slice the tough trunks, he gathered up fallen trees around the farm, setting them aside to dry.
He added: “I only started making the boards in June. I cut the wood and stacked it up so it could dry. We thought before Christmas was the ideal time to try to sell them.
“We had a stall at Middleton-in-Teesdale’s Christmas market and they went down well there.”
Daughter, caterer Clare Moss-Clennell, said: “Dad made me a board for my birthday earlier in the year and it’s just great.
“We had a party at the farm recently and we had all the food on the boards as it works really well for people to dip in and help themselves.”
In addition to the unusual serving platters he has also fashioned oak coasters and shot platters for those who enjoy a little tipple.
Mr Moss said: “All the grazing boards are oak and some the best looking boards are those with gnarly burrs in them. A few years ago, I would have just chopped them up for fire wood and that’s just such a shame.”
“It is something to do at this time of year when the farm is quieter.”
Anyone interesting in purchasing a festive grazing board can contact Mr Moss on 07831 119408.
