Jo, takes the lead with all things farming and is Head Grower on our now certified Organic farm.

She is also chief brewer, chief finance officer, head of HR, head of operations and Senior Vice President of Fixing Broken Things.

Together with Erin Bunting Jo co-authored her first book The Edible Flower: A Modern Guide to Growing, Cooking and Eating Edible Flowers.

Jo recently launched Laurel Bank Farm’s CSA ‘Farm and Feast,’ where families come together at the farm to share the rewards and responsibilities of growing food.

When Jo is not at the farm she teaches an Organic Fruit and Vegetable Course at South Eastern Regional College in Holywood.

Jo is a fan of talking about beer while drinking beer, ping pong, watching sport while eating crisps, growing and weaving willow, cooking over fire and eating.

Cat is Jo’s right hand woman when it comes to all things growing! She is in charge of all the day to day growing activities - weeding, mulching, sowing seeds, watering, planting out, harvesting. From tiny seedlings she ensures mighty plants do grow, and guides volunteers through important farming tasks.

Before joining the Laurelbank Farm team Cat was Barn Owl Officer for Ulster Wildlife and before that, Volunteer and Farmer Alliance Project Officer for the RSPB NI. She brought a wealth of knowledge about wildlife friendly farming, and specifically birds!

Cat is currently completing her Royal Horticultural Society Level 2 Qualification, and when she’s not working at the farm practices ballet and is a self-taught knitting master!

Claire works in the kitchen and can whip up just about anything! From jams, chutneys cordials and cakes there’s nothing Claire can’t create.

Claire studied patisserie, hotel operations and food science and and brings a wealth of industry experience with her. She is fascinated with all aspects of food - an intrinsic part of life, Claire believes food is not only sustenance for the body, it feeds the soul too, with one bite committing a moment to memory.

When not working at Laurelbank Farm Claire performs (and teaches) improvised comedy with a local group. She is also a keen crafter and her creativity extends to handmade dolls and beautiful ceramic treasures.

Harriet is everyones saviour and helps across both the gardening and kitchen team. Currently completing her RHS level 2 Certificate, she takes part in the weekly harvests, guiding volunteers alongside Jo and Cat.

When needed Harriet helps Claire to prep delicious meals in the kitchen, and during events Harriet is glides between guests making sure everyone is happy.

Always smiling, nothing is ever too much trouble for amazingly unflappable Harriet.