From golden yolks to wintery egg-free months, Lincolnshire-based Egg Club star Victoria shares the joys of life with hens — and why Egg Club is so much more than a way to sell eggs.
How did you first get involved in Egg Club?
At least three and a half years ago, possibly more!
What makes your eggs so special?
Part of it is the freshness. You just can’t beat a warm egg, fresh from the coop, cooked for your breakfast. It’s not like buying a product. I like to think of it as the difference between somebody knitting you a jumper, rather than picking one up in a shop.
Also, you know exactly what your hens are eating. I only buy non-GM feed. And the proof is in the taste. I gave a box to a friend once and they said, “They’re like the eggs we had when we were younger.”
What else affects the quality of your eggs?
Happy hens make happy eggs! I think there are two big factors – diet and lifestyle. When hens are outside, free-ranging and eating natural food (some of which even has extracts from marigold petals), you get these stunning yolks. When you break the egg, the yolk really stands up proud on top. It’s beautiful.
How big is your flock now?
I’ve got 40 hens – a few boys in there, and some very elderly ladies too. A lot of them have taken to laying in the goat house!
Do you ever buy eggs in the shops?
Nope. Over winter, when the girls stop laying, I just go without. My chickens aren’t kept under artificial light or heating. They need a rest and I respect that.
Would you adopt hens again?
Definitely. I’ve been adopting for over 10 years. It’s brilliant – you even get to know which hen laid which egg. You’ll hold an egg and go, “That’s one of hers.” There’s something very personal and rewarding about that.
How do you sell your eggs — and who buys them?
Mostly to regulars; I’ve built up a loyal local following. If I have extras, I’ll take them to work or offer them to friends. Sometimes my neighbour shares hers too, if I’m low. Over the year, I probably average two to three dozen a week.
How easy do you find taking part in Egg Club?
Very easy!
Do your customers appreciate what Egg Club is all about?
Absolutely. They love the freshness and knowing exactly where their eggs come from. I always post on Facebook when I make a donation and tag the customers, so they can see how they’re helping. Some are incredibly generous – I’ve had people pay £5 a dozen just to support the BHWT’s work.
Is it tricky now that people carry less cash?
Not really! Most of my customers are around my age and still like using cash. If I leave eggs at someone’s house, I just tell them to donate directly to BHWT. It all works out.
