A COUPLE from North Yorkshire who set up an online farm shop during the Covid-19 pandemic has got more than 90 British suppliers on board during their first year.

Jamie and Ros Randall launched Cook’s Larder in September 2020 to celebrate regional food and offer a safe alternative to supermarket shopping, while making the food and drink they sourced from local farmers, producers, and artisans more readily available.

Their online delicatessen provides a convenient way to buy a range of produce which is delivered fresh every week, and lends support to local farmers, butchers, bakers, growers and spice makers, among others.

Jamie said: “Covid has challenged everyone greatly in the last year. We hope we have provided a way to make everyone’s lives a little easier and more enjoyable. That’s the feedback we are receiving from our existing customers anyway and we much appreciate it. “

“During our first year, we have got over 90 British suppliers on board and have added more than 700 individual products to our website.”

Jamie added: “Of these, 70 pre cent of these are being sourced directly from Yorkshire.”

The couple from Kirkbymoorside, along with their young daughter, returned to North Yorkshire after 12 years in Sydney, Australia.

They are continuing to expand Cook’s Larder’s range of products and their relationships with local suppliers.

Throughout the pandemic, Jamie and Ros have prioritised delivery slots to help people shielding.

Reflecting on the year, Ros said: “In this world where vegetables are available all year round, we have tried to keep it seasonal and local which is more sustainable, more flavoursome and reduces the carbon food miles.

“Our aim is to support our British farmers and inform our customers on what’s in season as well as providing recipes for inspiration.”

Jamie added: “I love the way our customers have embraced this new way to ‘shop local’.

“By delivering directly to our customers’ homes, we have the opportunity to hear what products they like and get recommendations for new ones to add.

“It keeps things fresh and interesting - there’s always something new being added.”

Looking forward, they plan to expand their range of Yorkshire food and drink, introducing additional local beers, wines and spirits, plus a Yorkshire Christmas range.

Cook’s Larder delivers York, Selby, Helmsley, Malton, Scarborough, Harrogate, Ripon and Thirsk.