Former long-standing pub landlords set up new catering business in Northamptonshire – with popular roast dinner deliveries

Two former pub landlords, with 26 years’ experience, have set up a new catering business – with popular roast dinner deliveries on offer.

Julia Story and Michael Pittam launched The Village Kitchen Catering in September, after moving on from The Telegraph Inn in Moulton earlier this year.

The pair decided to take a step back from the pub in July, almost 12 years on from when they first took over in August 2011.

They decided to put their decades of experience in hospitality and catering to good use, by striving to provide exceptional catering services in their new business venture.

The Village Kitchen Catering offers bespoke menus for any occasion. Whether that is a corporate brunch or a casual buffet, Julia and Michael offer hot and cold options and accommodate any dietary requirements.

The options even extend to afternoon tea buffets, grazing platters, three course menus and Sunday roasts.

The business delivers to Holcot and its surrounding villages, including Moulton, Brixworth, Overstone, Sywell, Walgrave, Old, Boughton and Mawsley.

The decision to move on from the pub stemmed from a mixture of factors – the lease had come up for renewal, the constant increase in the cost of food supplies and alcohol, and the “crippling” utility prices.

For the hours of hard work they were investing, they did not feel they were getting enough out of it anymore.

Not only was Julia running the pub, but she also worked as a chef for the final four years as they struggled to hire kitchen staff.

The idea to set up a catering company was sparked when the pair looked around the local area and did not see much competition for what they wanted to offer.

“There was a need for it in this particular area of Northamptonshire,” said Julia.

They utilised their industry contacts and reputation in the community, having run two different pubs over the years, to get the business off the ground.

Despite only setting up in September, they have already branched out into Sunday roast deliveries.

These have been particularly popular among elderly customers and those who live alone, who cannot justify cooking a roast for one person.

Julia says they have also been praised by vulnerable and disabled customers, who really look forward to their delivery.

“We’re putting smiles on faces,” said Julia.

At The Telegraph Inn, the pair used to offer takeaways on Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday lunchtime – but never had the facilities to deliver.

Now they have their own business, Julia and Michael are making the most of being able to deliver directly to people’s doors.

When asked what sets them apart from other catering services, Julia said: “We always offer great service and go above and beyond to give something unique. It’s all homemade.”

During the first month, the business has received a lot of queries and the focus is now continuing to “get the word out”.

A festive menu is on its way, which Julia urges customers to keep their eyes peeled for.

For more information on The Village Kitchen Catering, visit the business’ Facebook page here.