In a proud moment for Tandragee, local shop Garden Fresh and Lily’s Flowers have received a nomination in the prestigious Countryside Alliance Awards. These awards highlight six exceptional rural businesses from the Armagh City, Banbridge, and Craigavon Borough that are committed to enhancing rural life and supporting their communities.
Garden Fresh and Lily’s Flowers located on Market Street, in the town owned by Robert Weir, has become a staple in the community since he took over the shop in 1998. Previously a bread van driver for Mother’s Pride, Robert saw an opportunity to create a family-friendly environment when he learned that the shop was up for sale. “I thought it would be easier as we were raising a young family. When I heard the shop was up for sale, it made sense,” he shared with UrbanABC.
What sets Garden Fresh apart is its commitment to providing the freshest produce every day. Robert emphasises the importance of quality, stating, “We pride ourselves on offering fruits and vegetables that are fresh every day. Our customers deserve the best, and we work hard to ensure they get it.” He believes that freshness is not just a selling point; it is a promise to the community that they can rely on.
Alongside Robert, the team comprises of Ellie Marshall, Alice Marshall, Judith Armstrong and Linda Cowan. Robert admits it’s a team effort. Noting the Covid Pandemic, Robert recalls how the team opted to support their local community showing up for work everyday to ensure delivers were carried out rather than opting to furlough.
“The team were faultless and totally dedicated to the community. I couldn’t have kept it all running without their support so this nomination is for the whole team”
Robert also highlights, “beside every man stands a great woman and for me that’s my wife Stephanie who has always been a great support to me. While I was getting up in the early hours of the morning wither it be the bread van or the shop, Stephanie has always been there”.
In addition to quality produce, Garden Fresh and Lily’s Flowers are champions of the circular economy. By supporting over 20 local growers, they contribute to a sustainable model that benefits both the environment and the local economy. “We believe in supporting our local farmers and growers. It’s about creating a community where everyone thrives together,” Robert explained. This dedication to local sourcing not only ensures freshness but also fosters a sense of connection within the community.
The shop offers a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, flowers, plants, and other specialty items, including bird and small animal feed, milk, country butter, and various dairy products. You’ll also find jams, free-range eggs, honey, juices, and delicious home-baked goods.
The shop also includes an array of home-baked cakes, tarts, and pastries, with fresh cream items available on weekends for a special treat. Additionally, several varieties of local honey are offered, each reflecting the unique taste of the pollinating flowers and plants in the area.
For flower enthusiasts, there’s a wide range of cut flowers available, and arrangements can be made for various occasions such as weddings, funerals, birthdays, or as thoughtful gifts. The shop also provides hanging baskets and potted plants to brighten up any home or garden. For those looking to get creative, a selection of seeds, bulbs, young plants, garden sundries, and compost is available as well.
The Countryside Alliance Awards celebrate businesses like Garden Fresh and Lily’s Flowers that go above and beyond in their service to rural life. The awards aim to recognise those who contribute significantly to their communities and uphold the values of sustainability and quality. With six businesses nominated from the Borough, it’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of local entrepreneurs.
Robert’s passion for his work and commitment to quality is evident in everything he does, making Garden Fresh and Lily’s Flowers a deserving nominee in this year’s awards. “It’s not just about running a shop; it’s about being part of the community and making a difference,” he concluded.
