A coffee business based in Tilston, outside Malpas, has received an industry standard award for their artisan product.

The Lost Barn Coffee Roasters, based at Old Hall Farm in Tilston, recently received a two-star Great Taste award for their Bloomsbury Blend, the result of hours of blind tasting from industry greats, including food critics, chefs and restaurateurs.

Judges commented on the blend’s delicious prune and almond tasting notes, velvety texture, and the beautiful quality of its beans and roast.

Jo McKerchar, who set up the business with her husband Blair and Martyn Moloney, said the trio were delighted the company has been recognised so early on.

“The announcement of our two-star Great Taste award comes as we celebrate our first year of business – we couldn’t have asked for a better birthday gift," she said.

"After launching our roastery near Tilston in 2018 we have had a fantastic response to our single origin coffee range and signature blends – our customers recognise the flavour benefits of buying speciality grade coffee that has been freshly roasted with the precision and skill of an artisan producer.

"We have also seen an overwhelming response to our direct-trade coffees, with customers now placing a high priority on ethical and environmental standards that go beyond the typical, commercial practices.

"Achieving a two-star Great Taste award is confirmation that we are roasting coffee at the highest levels and we’re immensely proud of that.”

Chief roaster, Blair initially trained as a chef in his native New Zealand, then took up head and executive Chef roles in London before moving to Australia to open his own venues.

After many years spent living in Melbourne,Blair and Jo returned to England two years ago with their young family to where Jo’s family have farmed for 50 years.

The Lost Barn Coffee packaged range can be found in local, independent retailers across Cheshire and for more details of their full range of coffee, and to purchase directly via their website, head to www.lostbarncoffee.co.uk