As the sun sets on March 30th, a chapter closes in the illustrious career of Ian ‘Tarquin’ Tilley, the esteemed manager of Grasmere Farm’s butchery counters at Vine House Farm Shop & Café in Deeping St Nicholas. With an incredible 53 years dedicated to the trade, Ian bids farewell to his trusty knives, embracing a well-deserved retirement to cherish moments with his beloved family.
Ian Tilley: A Butchery Legend
For over half a century, Ian Tilley has honed his craft as a master butcher, amassing a wealth of knowledge and experience. While his journey spans 53 remarkable years, his tenure with us at Grasmere Farm began nearly three years ago, coinciding with the opening of Vine House Farm Shop & Café in Deeping St Nicholas. Since then, Ian’s dedication and expertise have been instrumental in establishing our butchery counters as a bastion of quality and service in the local community.
Ian Tilley: A Darting Luminary
Beyond the realm of butchery, Ian Tilley is a shining star in the world of darts, sharing the stage with some of the sport’s most illustrious names. From rising sensations like Luke Littler to seasoned champions like Martin ‘Wolfie’ Adams, Ian’s presence adds an air of excitement and camaraderie to every darting event. As both referee and emcee, he’s entertained crowds and raised substantial funds for charitable causes, exemplifying the spirit of sportsmanship and generosity that defines the darting community.
Grasmere Farm’s Gratitude
At Grasmere Farm, Ian Tilley holds a special place in our hearts. From the inception of our journey with Vine House Farm, Ian’s leadership and passion have propelled us to new heights of success. His tireless efforts have transformed our butchery counters into a haven for discerning customers, where quality and service reign supreme.
Reflecting on his tenure, Ian expresses profound pride in the relationships forged with customers, describing them as the highlight of his career. Grasmere Farm’s retail manager, Will Bowell, echoes this sentiment, praising Ian’s infectious energy and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Passing the Torch
As Ian embarks on his well-earned retirement, Grasmere Farm remains committed to upholding his legacy of quality and service. In keeping with our ethos of nurturing talent, we’re thrilled to announce that Dave West will be taking over the reins. With 13 years of experience as a butcher and a passion for customer service, Dave is poised to continue Ian’s tradition of excellence at Vine House Farm.
A Fond Farewell
As we bid farewell to Ian ‘Tarquin’ Tilley, we extend our deepest gratitude for his decades of dedication to the trade and unwavering passion. While he bids adieu to daily duties, Ian’s presence will continue to grace the aisles during bustling periods, reminding us all that it’s not farewell but rather, a see you later.
