STUNNING spring blooms are proving popular as residents look to bring a bit of colour into their homes.
Heidi Varley, who runs Cotherstone-based Pink’s Flower Farm, has devised a contactless system to get her terrific tulips and super scented narcissi out to customers across the dale.
“People are ringing asking if I can take flowers to loved ones who are in isolation,” she said.
“It’s been a pleasure and a privilege to deliver safely a little joy during these challenging times.”
Ms Varley said she follows a rigorous routine to prepare the flowers and then deliver them.
“I always ring people to tell them I’m coming, leave them outside and move to a safe distance as the come and get them.
“The reaction from people has been so lovely. It’s been a good thing to do.”
Proving popular have been various species of tulip along with scented “double daffodil” called Sir Winston Churchill.
“I dropped some off for a birthday and they said not only did they like the flowers but also the scent,” said Ms Varley. It’s been a particularly busy for Ms Varley as her mum Pat Oddy – who works alongside her at Pink’s – has been in isolation.
“I’ve been on my own and flat out dealing with the orders, delivering flowers and getting the beds ready for the dahlias to plant out in a few weeks’ time. It’s all go,” she added.
When the coronavirus crisis hit, Ms Varley said there was uncertainty among growers as to whether to continue.
But she said: “People always want flowers in good times and bad and the support has been amazing.”
In addition to delivering her flowers, Ms Varley also supplies blooms to Cross Lanes Farm Shop and Piercebridge Organic Farm Shop.
Ms Varley can be contacted on 07796 890467 or by email heidi@pinksflowerfarm.co.uk
