ABOUT BESSIE’S

Where it all started…. As a child I lived in the beautiful town of Pateley Bridge in the heart of Nidderdale. Inspired by my Nan “Bessie” and my childhood spent living on the family farm. Bessie would always involve me and my two sisters in whatever she was busy with in the kitchen whether that be a pie, preserves, bread or jam. Using seasonal fruits and vegetables from the farm garden and turning them into something YUMMY! So it just felt right calling my business Bessie’s Yorkshire Preserves.

From this I went into the catering industry, I have worked in some fab hotels across Yorkshire. Only to name a few: Rudding Park, Swinton Castle & Weetwood Hall. I have always had a passion for good food & customer service. Which is a big part of building Bessie’s Yorkshire Preserves. I like to get to know my customers and hear their stories.

Encouraged by my nearest fans to set up my own business, what once was a hobby making preserves for my family and friends is now part of my life. Owning my own business is a source of inspiration to my two children. Grace likes to help me with labelling and Henry is always on hand when I need a chief taster. It’s wonderful that they are interested in what I am doing, and I like to teach them how to make the most of ingredients and share any tips.

Bessie has given her name not only to my preserves business but also a footpath in her hometown. There’s a path in Pateley Bridge, close to the farm, named Bessie’s Way. It was dedicated to my Nan because she used to love walking in the area. She was well-known in the town and even now when I go back to visit relatives in the area, it’s lovely to see that there is an enduring tribute to her.

I hope you have enjoyed reading about Bessie as much as I have enjoyed writing about her, and honouring her legacy with the food we produce at Bessie’s.