Charlie Frederick is the latest of the Frederick family to be managing Temple Farm Turkeys since 1937 at their farm in Roydon, Essex. Temple Farm have been TFTA members and Golden Turkey Farmers for over twenty years, with plenty of traditional turkey farming knowledge and experience. Charlie manages the Golden Turkeys on the farm, as well as a growing number of Highland cattle.
Which year did you become an accredited Golden Turkey Farmer – and start producing Golden Turkeys for Christmas?
Chris Frederick, my Uncle, was one of the TFTA’s first Golden Turkey Farmers so we have plenty of experience and value being part of this group producing high quality, traditional and free-range Christmas turkeys.
How long have you been in farming?
The Frederick family has been farming since the early 1800’s and has been at Temple Farm since 1937. We are now on the fourth generation producing the same bird that was sold locally, over half a century ago!
Do you produce anything else on your farm?
We have recently purchased some pedigree highland cattle for breeding stock as well as for producing grass fed beef. We also have 250 acres of arable land that produces mainly milling types of winter wheat.
Have you won any AWARDS for farming, food or your business?
We are very proud our Great Taste Awards, received for our Free-Range Turkeys in 2018.
We received a 3-star Award for the Free-Range White Turkey, which was also nominated for the Golden Fork Award. At the time we were the only fresh, free-range turkey to receive a 3 star Great Taste Award, and a great honour to be nominated for the Golden Fork too! Our Free-Range Bronze Turkey received a 2-star award, and our Free-Range Bronze Crown received a 1-star award.
What do you enjoy most about what you do?
Rearing free-range turkeys to the highest welfare standards, raised the old-fashioned way. Having the day old poults arrive, and seeing their growth throughout the year, in a natural environment.
What or who, inspires you?
My family who have grown the farm into a well-respected working business.
What was your first job?
I have always worked on the farm, but did try an engineering apprenticeship 5 years ago, but being stuck behind a computer in an office 9 till 5 was not for me!
What would you be doing, if you weren’t a farmer?
Anything to do with the outdoors! Perhaps a groundsman or construction worker.
Tea or Coffee?
Tea
Favourite Book or Film?
Favourite film – Forrest Gump
Favourite Food?
Turkey of course!
Best way to relax after a stressful day?
Taking the dog out round the farm, spending time with the cows or playing hockey!
How has the Corona Virus Pandemic affected your farm life and business?
Are you planning to make changes in the way you promote your Christmas turkeys – if local shows and events are in doubt or cancelled for example?
We are really trying to push the social media this year for advertising our farm as well as the turkeys.
Are you planning to offer a nationwide delivery service?
Yes we already offer this service.
Do you foresee any particular staffing problems this year, for the processing of the turkeys for Christmas for example?
Potentially yes, I believe that we may have to start advertising earlier, and maybe working with local companies in some way.
Which social media platforms do you use for your Christmas Turkey business?
Which do you prefer?
We use Facebook and Instagram – Instagram is our preferred platform
Further Details:
Facebook: @Temple Farm Roydon
Instagram: @Temple_Farm_
