Business thrivesas countryside 'brings nodisadvantages'

Based just north of York, Mr Turnbull runs Yorkshire Meats, a firm that allows consumers to adopt a pig which they watch grow until it is ready for slaughter, giving just about the ultimate guarantee in food provenance.

Mr Turnbull is highlighted by the Commission for Rural Communities as an example of how rural businesses need the proper backing.

From his base at Shipton, North Yorkshire Mr Turnbull enjoys good broadband and phone access meaning his operation can take orders effectively like any other business.

“Being in the countryside has brought me no disadvantages,” he said “Broadband is fine, access is fine, the customers like visiting the farm.”

Mr Turnbull said that none of his friends were looking to work in the countryside, with most intending to head for London or neighbouring cities.

However the young entrepreneur said he had no intentions of quitting rural life.

“Never,” he said. “Some people keep pigs in the urban environment, but probably not on the same scale. No friends are going to work in the countryside. Most are going to London or the city.”

Mr Turnbull started his firm when he was still at school from his parents’ 26-acre farm. He promotes the rare breeds of Oxford Sandy and Black – with the farm being one of the largest breeders in the North of England.