Producers & Creatives
Producers & Creatives
When it comes to the businesses we have partnered with at Barrica in the Park, we consider ourselves extremely lucky that we’re surrounded by such a wealth of fabulous, local talent. The local food and drink producers, and skilled crafts-people we’ve welcomed to the park is truly amazing. Have a browse through the list below, I’m sure you’ll find plenty to intice you for a visit.
Lloyds Chocolatiers
Lloyds Chocolatiers is a Preston based business specialising in producing exquisite handmade artisan chocolates and truffles.
Lloyds Chocolatiers creates handcrafted artisan chocolates in Preston. All truffles, bonbons and chocolates are made in small batches to ensure they are beautiful to look at and delicious to eat.
Each chocolate is made from carefully selected couverture (chocolate) from Colombia and Belgium, fresh fruits, high quality alcohols with no artificial preservatives. This ensures that only the best chocolates are produced using traditional techniques for tempering with no machinery involved. Lloyds Chocolatiers is operated from a home address with a food hygiene rating of five stars.
Jacquisara’s Photography
Sharing my passion for photography, nature and the beautiful area I live in, and beyond, through natural images in prints and keepsake gifts.
I am a local, amateur photographer with a passion for photography and walking. I love being out enjoying the landscape, nature and wildlife and always have my camera to hand. My particular love is landscape photography. I keep editing to a minimum, preferring instead to focus on composition to create a natural image.
I produce a range of merchandise from framed prints, mounted prints and the unique and ever popular keepsake cards. For the last 5 years I have produced Chorley Calendar which showcases Chorley through its architecture, parks, nature reserves, the beautiful West Pennine Moors and popular local events like Chorley Flower Show and Chorley in Bloom. I’m still passionate about photography, still experimenting, still evolving and still loving it.
Elfin Alchemy
Bewitching beautiful beaded wirework and abstract fused glass jewellery lovingly handcrafted in Lancashire by elfin alchemy.
The mystical magic of Lancashire fascinates and inspires the work of jewellery artist, Sam Rowena Taylor.
My aim is to create original and unique designs that capture a bit of sunlight to help you sparkle!
I’m enchanted by the artwork of our ancient ancestors, I love creating their magical motifs and symbols – spirals, scrolls, hearts, circles, Celtic designs, and other sculptural shapes – and turning them into timeless wearable works of art that will bring you joy when you wear them.
Come and join me on my journey and discover some elfin alchemy treasure for yourself, a selection of my work is on display upstairs at Barrica in the Park and they make a perfect gift or treat for yourself.
Iheartjam
Delicious, award winning jam and marmalade. Homemade locally in Bolton. Seasonal and jammed full of flavour!
Homemade: Made in small batches, by hand in Bolton, in traditional open pans, simply with fruit and sugar. Though a few of our flavours are packed with spices such as fresh ginger, cinnamon sticks and cloves, plus a drop of alcohol.
Seasonal: We strive to make the most of British seasonal produce. This gives our customers the chance to try interesting produce when it’s in season, like our Autumnal Hedgerow Jelly made from foraged fruit or our Rhubarb & Strawberry which oozes summer sunshine! We also hope that using seasonal produce will help to reduce our environmental impact. In addition, we are keen to support our local economy by buying as much of our fruit as possible from local producers, markets and wholesalers.
Jammed full of flavour: With a high fruit content, comes a fabulous rich taste and we strive to blend interesting and exciting fruit combinations depending on the season. We never use any artificial preservatives, flavours or gelling agents, relying entirely on the qualities of the fruit we use to achieve a set.
Recycling: The glass jars (not lids) and card gift boxes can be recycled back for re-use. Lids can be recycled within the mixed recycling bins.
Christine Corthorn
Stoneware Ceramics
After spending 30 years teaching Ceramics to high school pupils, retirement brought with it the time to explore and develop my own work.
Designs and shapes found in water, sand, pebbles and rock formations form the basis of my work. Simple shapes using a variety of techniques ranging from coiling, slabs and wheel thrown pottery are manipulated by carving, impressing and the additioan of textured clays resulting in unique forms which are both decorative and functional.
A limited range of glazes, slip and oxides are used to emphasise textures and surfaces. All work is fired to stoneware temperatures in an electric kiln. I am a member of the Art and Craft Guild of Lancashire and have exhibited throughout the County. My work is currently sold at several galleries in the North West.
The Bee Centre
The Bee Centre is a multi-award-winning centre of excellence for bee-related education, breeding and husbandry. We also produce delicious honey, which is in fact a happy by-product of our environmental and educational activities.
The Bee Centre’s honeys are of a very high quality. As pioneers of ethical and sustainable beekeeping. our low interference approach ensures that this delicious, sticky treat is not contaminated with processed sugars nor chemical treatments.
We do not pasteurise nor microfilter our honeys either. Our sustainably bred bees gather a diverse range of nectars, resulting in honeys which taste and look incredible. The health properties of raw honey are legendary, providing an excellent remedy for hay fever, colds and a diversity of complaints of the skin, digestive and respiratory systems, amongst other. Some even have antiviral properties.
Alongside our amazing honeys, we stock many other bee-themed items such as candles, jewellery, soaps, books, fudge, cosmetics and much more. If you’re looking for a special gift which is unusual, memorable and inspiring, why not consider our award-winning “Bee Experience”. This popular, 90-minute immersion into the world of the honeybees enables participants to get up close and personal with the bees. Vouchers are available online and in store.
If you are interested in learning to keep honeybees, we run beekeeping courses from beginner to advanced and even commercial bee farming. We also stock a wide range of beekeeping equipment and, of course, our specially bred Lancashire Bees.
Mr Fitzpatrick's
Nestled amongst the Pennines in the Rossendale Valley sits Mr Fitzpatrick’s factory, and Mr Fitzpatrick’s Victorian Last Original Temperance Bar. Vintage cordial makers since 1899 who are dedicated to regenerating a piece of Lancashire history.
Mr Fitzpatrick’s began life in Dublin in 1836, when herbalist Julia Fitzpatrick created wonderful tonics, cordials and pick-me-ups for the locals. In 1899, the family moved to Northern England, establishing a successful chain of temperance bars. Unfortunately, after World War II interest in these declined and Mr Fitzpatrick’s story was in danger of being lost forever. However, the current owners brought this piece of Lancashire history back to life in 2011; restored to its former glory, Mr Fitzpatrick’s still own and operate the last remaining Original Temperance Bar in Britain.
Although the company has moved on from its humble beginnings, the vintage-inspired cordials are still crafted in the same artisan tradition, made with natural ingredients and botanical extracts . All the drinks are vegan, gluten-free, and amazingly versatile. They can be used in an endless number of ways; serve straight up diluted with still, sparkling or tonic water, enjoy hot for a comforting treat, use in ices, delicious floats and milkshakes, as a splash mixer or cocktail base. You can even cook and bake with them.
The ideas never stop coming. The Mr Fitzpatrick’s team, create wonderful concoctions such as the universally liked Rhubarb & Rosehip or their latest squeeze – Lemon, Yuzu and Turmeric cordial. The company has also found a niche with the Mr Fitz Aqua Spritz Systems, catering to the often forgotten non-drinkers who are demanding a better choice than the usual lacklustre offerings that were available in pubs, bars & restaurants previously.
It’s been an exciting journey of growth and development, but the company has stayed true to its botanical roots and dedication to artisan craftsmanship in creating these premium drinks. The innovative recipes acknowledge changing trends while resolutely adhering to the principles of their heritage. Through the team’s passion and commitment, they continue to bring their wonderful drinks to a whole new generation of fans, keeping the Mr Fitzpatrick’s legacy well and truly alive!
Blanket Box
Our journey to creating Blanket Box has evolved from three generations of a love affair with textiles.
Blanket Box is a Lancashire based, family run business. With you in mind, we have put together a fabulous and extensive range of luxury throws & blankets. Whether it be that personalised fleece blanket or that cosy wool throw to add comfort to a couch or bed.
Here at Blanket Box, we are constantly adding new items to our collection. We not only take pride in our products, but also in our customer satisfaction, having recently been recognised and awarded multiple awards. We are now really pleased to bring you a wonderful selection of our productshare at Barrica in the Park.
CW Soaps
CW Soaps is a family-run business based in Bolton, Lancashire, led by founder Jane, a passionate sheep farmer. The idea for CW Soaps came to her after experiencing dry and sore hands from working outside, and she decided to create a soap range that would cleanse and moisturize at the same time. With years of research, CW Soaps was born, using only natural, high-quality ingredients to create fabulous cold-pressed soap bars.
Over the years, CW Soaps has expanded its product range to include travel-friendly and salon-quality shampoo bars, as well as premium home fragrance products such as soy candles and diffusers. CW Soaps also offers popular car diffusers, giving you fabulous fragrances on the go!
Each of CW Soaps’ products is handmade with care and attention, reflecting the company’s ethos of quality and natural ingredients. With a growing fan base, CW Soaps has become a staple in the local community and beyond, and their range of products can now be found at Barrica and other select retailers.
The Busy Food Company
Welcome to The Busy Food Company – local caterers for your business or family events!
At The Busy Food Company, we take pride in offering a wide range of delectable dishes crafted with care and expertise. Whether you’re hosting a lively party or a crucial business meeting, we’ve got you covered with our diverse menu options. Alongside catering for events, The Busy Food Company also offers a home delivery service. Each week they produce a new menu consisting of handmade pies, sausage rolls, scotch eggs and freshly made meals for you to order and either enjoy that day or pop in the freezer to bring out on one of your ‘busy’ days.
Our chef, Ian, has worked in some of the best hotels and restaurants in the north of England, most notably and recently at The Inn at Whitewell for over 15 years. These years of knowledge and experience have meant Ian has been able to work closely with a wide range of local suppliers. As a result, supporting local businesses is at the heart of what we do. We source many of our ingredients from other local suppliers, ensuring that each dish not only tastes fantastic but also supports the community around us.
From christenings to milestone birthdays and everything in between, The Busy Food Company is here to elevate your event with our delicious offerings. Our aim is to ensure that your guests will appreciate the quality and attention to detail we bring to the table.
Contact us today to discuss your upcoming event and let us bring the flavours of The Busy Food Company to your next gathering!
New Cards on the Block
New Cards on the Block is a Lancashire-based design and illustration company specialising in hand-decorated, high-quality greetings cards, artwork, and bespoke wedding stationery.
Founded by the talented and creative Rebecca Chesters, their designs are all hand-illustrated, taking inspiration from the local area and everyday life with family and friends. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their use of high-quality, eco-friendly materials and local printers, making their products not only beautiful but also environmentally conscious. From quirky and uplifting designs to bespoke wedding stationery, New Cards on the Block offers unique, one-of-a-kind products that are sure to make a lasting impression.
Badger Graphics
Badger Graphics is the creative venture of Chorley-based artist and photographer Ian, an award-winning practitioner with a distinctive approach to visual storytelling. Drawing on a rich background in design engineering and traditional drafting, Ian has developed an innovative technique called Digital Marquetry—a meticulous process that transforms photographs into photorealistic hand-drawn compositions.
Each work begins with the careful dissection of an image into individual shapes, which Ian then painstakingly renders to capture the essence and detail of the original photograph. The result is a breathtaking body of work that celebrates Chorley’s most cherished local landmarks and historic buildings.
Ian’s practice is rooted in a profound appreciation for the local area, combining technical precision with artistic vision to create pieces that resonate with those who know and love Chorley. His work is a testament to the creative talent thriving within the community.
Special Branch Turning
Special Branch Turning creates hand-turned gifts and homewares, each individually crafted in a home workshop just a couple of miles from Astley Park. The business is founded on a commitment to sourcing wood locally wherever possible—drawing from timber merchants, tree surgeons, and the local community—with occasional pieces from approved specialist suppliers.
The craft began with Glynn Harrington, who took up woodturning at the age of 13 on a second-hand lathe. Though a career in research science temporarily interrupted his practice, his passion for wood never wavered. When Glynn took voluntary redundancy, he and his wife Hilary (a former lawyer) established Special Branch Turning to share his work with a wider audience. Glynn continues to turn on that same trusty lathe to this day.
Glynn’s approach is guided by the timber itself. Working primarily with native hardwoods and occasionally exotic varieties, his philosophy is simple: enhance nature and let the wood be the star. Rooted in traditional craftsmanship, yet finished with meticulous precision and occasional contemporary flourishes, each piece reflects both reverence for the material and commitment to quality.
As Glynn himself reflects: there’s no better feeling than transforming what appears to be weathered, unremarkable timber into something genuinely beautiful—a philosophy evident in every piece Special Branch Turning creates.
Fuzzy About Felt
Fuzzy About Felt is the creative practice of needle felting artist Linzi, who brings over a decade of experience to this vibrant and tactile craft. Largely self-taught, Linzi has recently dedicated herself fully to needle felting, transforming soft, squishy woolly fibres into unique creations that delight and inspire.
Needle felting is, at its heart, a mindful and creative practice—one that Linzi uses not only to craft beautiful pieces but to share the joy of working with colour and texture, encouraging others to discover their own artistic potential. Every project is created using quality materials sourced from trusted specialist retailers and local independents.
Fuzzy About Felt offers seasonal workshops and private sessions tailored to all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced crafters. Linzi also accepts commissions for bespoke gifts, creating both 2D paintings and 3D sculptures for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to develop your felting skills or simply explore a new creative passion, Linzi’s guidance makes the fuzzy world of needle felting accessible, enjoyable, and deeply rewarding.
Susie Blue Felts
Susan Wilkinson is a Lancashire-based felt maker whose practice is rooted in a deep love of nature and wildlife. Introduced to felting in 2020, Susan discovered an immediate sense of calm and creative happiness in the craft—a sensory and meditative experience that has become central to her artistic practice.
Drawing inspiration from the natural world, Susan transforms wool into striking artworks depicting landscapes, birds, insects, flowers, and trees. Her primary technique is wet felting—a gradual, tactile process that uses soapy water and careful agitation to transform raw wool into felt. To add depth and character, she often incorporates other yarns, fibres, and fabrics, then embellishes the finished piece with hand or machine embroidery and needle felting.
Passionate about continuous learning and creative development, Susan regularly participates in local craft fairs and is a proud member of the International Felt Makers Association. Each piece reflects a commitment to quality craftsmanship and a genuine reverence for the natural world.
Reedy's Naturally
Reedy’s is a Lancashire-based business that produces fabulous, multi-award winning natural preserves and savoury condiments. Every product is jam-packed with flavour and made with love by Lisa and her team in the heart of Lancashire.
Established in 2008, Reedy’s is driven by a love of cooking, gardening and nature. It all started when Lisa was left with a greenhouse full of not quite ripe fruit and vegetables and a conversation with her mum about not wanting to waste what she had so lovingly grown. Armed with her mum’s old aluminium maslin pan and a 1920s cook book, the adventure began.
Reedy’s recipes are created, tested and changed until the results are delicious. Simple but tasty meals are developed using their store cupboard products as a base ingredient. After 20 years in IT Senior Management, Lisa accepted redundancy and began the business in earnest.
All of Reedy’s ingredients are freshly prepared, and every small batch is taste-tested and cooked until it’s ‘bob on’. They are one of the few producers who naturally set their preserves with their own hand-made Bramley apple pectin and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Lisa and her team take pride in every jar they make and are dedicated to creating products that taste amazing and are made with the highest quality ingredients.