The lucky people of North Down have the edge on most of us, as they can enjoy regular weekly deliveries of fresh seasonal organic produce from 'just up the road' thanks to John McCormick and the team at Helen's Bay Organic Gardens.
In business since 1991, the 20-acre organic holding beside Belfast Lough produces a wide variety of vegetables grown throughout the year in their fields and polytunnels - and those not suitable for their soil type are sourced locally from other organic farms, so imports are only used when there is no local alternative available. They also offer organic fruit packs, free range eggs, organic preserves, coffee and perhaps some other organic kitchen pantry supplies.
While there is some flexibity (and there several sizes offered to meet the needs of different households) the contents of the vegetable and fruit bags are kept fairly standard which keeps the cost down, allowing for an affordable delivery scheme that's accessible to all.
However they do offer extras of your favourite vegetables and fruit and a 'no potatoes' selection. Some people also request a 'no onions' option, so you don't have to accept something that you cannot eat - and they'll also do their best to include more of your favourites too.
It's a great scheme and its longevity proves that direct selling by delivery really can work.
