Carraig Dubh Dexters

As part of Love British Food’s programme of farm visits for NHS caterers, on Friday 17^th May 12 members of the Northern Ireland branch of the Hospital Caterers Association visited Carraig Dubh Farm in the beautiful area of Broughderg at the foot of the Sperrin Mountains.

The hospitals represented were:

South Eastern Trust

• Lagan Valley Hospital
• Downe Hospital
• Ulster Hospital

Northern Trust

• Causeway Hospital
• Whiteabbey Hospital

Western Trust

• Gransha Hospital

The visit was organised by Deborah McNeill, Senior Manager Patient Experience, at Lagan Valley Hospital, Lisburn. Deborah is a member of the Love British Food Hospital and Care Catering Working Group.

They were hosted by Sean O’Neill and his wife who farm Dexter cattle. Sean has been a passionate supporter of Love British Food’s work and the visit was very much his vision. On the farm tour, he explained to everyone that the reason he farmers Dexter cattle is that they have small frames and a hardy constitution that is most suitable for the rough grazing that makes up the majority of his farm. Sean showed members the different types of grassland on the farm, describing the best uses for each type. The cattle are wintered outside, which Sean explained helps produce the great marbling that makes Dexter beef so sought after. 

To maximise the price for such high quality meat, Sean sells directly from the farm, and through local markets. His 65 head herd is a perfect fit for his customers. A few members bought some beef, which was delicious.

Seeing the farm and hearing of the route to market reminded the hospital caterers who attended of the importance of buying produce from the wonderful farmers on their doorstep in Northern Ireland. After the tour of the farm there was a good discussion about what needed to be done to ensure that Northern Irish farmers and producers are able to apply to supply hospital tenders; and how this could be included when writing specifications for future contracts.

“Thanks for coming, it's good to see such efforts being made to connect with the farming industry!”

Sean O’Neill, farmer, Carraig Dubh

“Thank you for hosting us. It was a great day, and very interesting to see how you built your herd. Also, the steaks were delicious!”

Deborah McNeill, Lagan Valley Hospital