Farmer Profiles

George Chambers - Kent Gala Grower

Over the last 100 years the Chambers family have grown traditional varieties of apples and pears on their farm in Horsmonden.  George, and his father Mike (both in picture), have farmed together for the last 27 years, growing for Tesco customers since 1996. 

Northiam farm is situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the High Weald of Kent.  An integrated management plan for flora and fauna has been carried out and developed to minimise the impact of agricultural practices in the area.  This plan catalogues the areas and aspects of interest of flora and fauna and any areas of vernacular architectural characteristics
Northiam farm is surrounded by another fruit farm.  The farm yard and orchard layout and size is of the traditional High Weald style – red brick, tile hung buildings with small, enclosed orchards and shaws.

Field sizes have remained unchanged through the last forty years; supporting established habitats in hedgerows, shaws, ponds and along the public footpath that bisects the farm.  A full ADAS Wildlife and Conservation assessment was conducted in 2005, and this details the existing farm biodiversity and outlines recommendations for the maintenance and enhancement of the site.

George and Mike also store and pack fruit, both for themselves and for neighbouring farms.  Farm workers come from the local villages and also students from Lithuania, Poland, Latvia and Estonia come and help at busy times of year to earn money to fund their education back home