Spotlight on Prestwich: The Cheese Place

Reporter: Kevin Burke
Date online: 13 October 2010

The Cheese Place is tucked neatly into the Longfield Suite in Prestwich and has been open since July 2009. It sells a huge variety of cheeses, none of which were made in a factory, and has quickly established itself as a landmark of the village.

It hasn’t gone unnoticed by the big Cheeses of the industry, either, being declared a ‘highly recommended’ runner-up in the British Cheese awards held in Cardiff over September.

After becoming popular in Yorkshire, owner Kath Armitage decided it was time to expand, and noticed the amazing regeneration of Prestwich town centre. She decided her quirky shop would fit in well and it appears local residents are grateful to have a cheese deli in North Manchester.

“I never tire of cheese,” she said, “There’s always a new one.” She explained how there has been a resurgence in the last 10-15 years, with hundreds of new varieties being released every year and 3 times as many British artisan cheeses as French.

Ms Armitage added: “All our farmhouse cheeses are made by hand, as well as a majority of the cheeses we have in stock. Some chutneys are even made in domestic kitchens and the products are bought from local growers.”

When asked if she had any plans to expand, she laughed: “Not this year! We’re busy enough as it is! We’re open 7 days a week; it’s a hard life.”

But surely she’s doing what she loves? “Anyone who goes into the food business should be passionate about it. I feel like we protect British heritage with this shop and the products I serve.”