A pioneering dairy farming couple in Surrey have taken a bold step to bring sustainable, nature-friendly dairy directly to their customers via a restored electric milk float named The Nutfield Express.
Matt Elphick and Betsie Edge, the founders of Nutfield Dairy at Brays Farm, owned by nature-friendly farming charity The Countryside Regeneration Trust, first began their regenerative farming journey in 2020.
Their small herd of traditional Shorthorn and Albion cows is at the heart of a system that prioritises animal welfare, biodiversity and soil health.
Thanks to a successful crowdfunding campaign, the couple has now converted a vintage electric milk float into a mobile farm shop, serving up fresh milk, cheese, yoghurt, cream and milkshakes with a low environmental footprint.
Launched in late May, The Nutfield Express now parks up at Bower Hill Farm (RH1 4EH) every Saturday 10am – 4pm and Wednesday 2pm – 6pm (due to restrictions at Brays Farm). Other locations may be added depending on demand.
Inside the float, there is a specially designed milk dispenser offering whole and semi-skimmed milk, with the option to make fresh milkshakes. Customers can buy glass milk bottles to then wash and refill, cutting down on single-use packaging.
Matt said: “We have just 25 traditional Shorthorn cows, as well as some rare breed Albion cows. Our cows graze on chemical-free pasture, we move them onto fresh grass daily to help regenerate the soil and boost biodiversity, and – unlike most dairies – calves stay with their mothers. It means we get less milk, but the animals are healthier and happier.”
Customers can even meet the herd digitally through photos and profiles of the cows responsible for producing their milk on the Nutfield Express.
Matt added: “You definitely don’t get that sort of connection at the supermarket. People love knowing exactly where their food comes from.”
The Nutfield Express isn’t just about connecting people with their food; it’s also about sustainability. The fully electric vehicle includes an inverter and will soon be fitted with a solar panel to power operations on the go.
Betsie said: “We want everything – from how we farm to how we deliver – to reflect our environmental values. It’s a small-scale, big-hearted approach to food production.”
Nutfield Dairy products are available at the Nutfield Express and select local outlets, such as Priory Farm Shop, Garsons and Earlswood Farmers Market.
