In the heart of Worsley, Greater Manchester, sits a modern-day homestead that’s more than just a farm — it’s a promise kept. The Promise Company, founded by Cath and Andrew Broadhead, is a thriving rural business offering fresh produce, immersive experiences, and a deep connection to community. With no farming background, the couple launched their venture during the pandemic, navigating personal upheaval and professional uncertainty to create a place filled with love, good times, and purpose.
Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2025, The Promise Company was shortlisted for the British Farming Awards – New Entrants: Against the Odds, recognising their resilience, innovation, and impact in the sector.
We spoke to Andrew Broadhead about their journey, the challenges they’ve overcome, and how support from GM Business Growth Hub helped them unlock new opportunities.
Q: Can you briefly introduce The Promise Company and what you offer?
The Promise Company is our fifth business — a farm-based venture offering eggs, bread, honey, events, workshops, and soon, guest accommodation. We also rent out stables for storage. It’s a place where we live, work, and create lifelong memories, inspired by our shared dream and the spirit of The Darling Buds of May.
Q: You and Cath didn’t come from a farming background. What inspired you to start a business in agriculture and rural experiences?
Cath had a vision of being self-sufficient, which evolved into a more considered approach to food — understanding what we eat, how it’s produced, and valuing quality over convenience. We wanted meaningful work, a connection to nature, and a way to share that experience with others. The Promise at Leyland Farm gives us all of that.
Q: You launched during the pandemic, while facing major personal challenges. Can you share more about that journey — the hurdles you faced and how you overcame them?
We were running two businesses, had two kids (one recovering from open heart surgery), and moved house four times — including a stint in a friend’s spare room. We had no equipment, no farming experience, and had to learn everything from scratch. The farm is 24/7, and managing 24 buildings meant 24 roofs to maintain! But we believed in ourselves, broke the journey down into steps, and kept going. When things got tough, we’d step outside, listen to the birds, and feel grateful.
Q: What does “keeping the promise” mean to you today, and how has that shaped the way you run the business?
It’s about building a place full of love, good times, and family. That promise has guided every decision — from how we treat our animals to how we welcome the community. People who visit say they “get the feeling” — it’s quiet, rural, and full of heart.
Q: How did you first hear about GM Business Growth Hub and Enterprising You? What made you reach out for support?
Cath first got support via Enterprising You back in the 2010s. Since then, we’ve proactively sought support from the Growth Company across our ventures — Fernbank Waste Solutions and Living Like the Larkins. We’ve tapped into leadership development, networking, strategy, 1-2-1s, and collaboration opportunities.
Q: What kind of support have you received from the Hub so far?
As mentioned, we’ve had access to a range of services — but the standout has been the leadership development training delivered by Andrew Ramwell of Know and Do.
Q: How has that support helped you personally and professionally? What’s changed in your business since working with the Hub?
It’s been transformational, especially on a personal level. Two lessons from the training really stuck with us:
“The skills that got us here aren’t the ones that will take us forward.”
“Change the narrative.”
These ideas helped us move past anxiety and inertia, and gave us the confidence to grow.
Q: Can you share any specific examples of how the Hub helped you tackle a challenge or unlock a new opportunity?
Before the training, Cath and I were overwhelmed and unsure about the future. The leadership development helped us reframe our thinking and gave us the tools to move forward. That shift unlocked real growth.
Q: Have you seen measurable growth or impact in your business since engaging with the Hub?
Absolutely. We’ve more than quadrupled the size of our business. Fernbank Waste Solutions went from £254k in FY20/21 to £1.25m in FY25/26. The Promise Company has grown its events business to around 150 events per year, and we’re expanding into accommodation and sustainability projects.
Q: Being shortlisted for the British Farming Awards is a big achievement. What does that recognition mean to you?
It felt surreal — like validation of four years of hard work. To be seen as farmers, and potentially award-winning ones, is incredibly special.
Q: Would you recommend GM Business Growth Hub and Enterprising You to other business owners?
Yes, without hesitation. The support has been practical, personal, and empowering. It’s helped us grow, connect, and stay resilient.
Cath and Andrew Broadhead didn’t have farming experience — but they had a vision, determination, and the courage to ask for help. With support from GM Business Growth Hub and Enterprising You, they turned a heartfelt promise into a thriving business and community hub.
If you’re a business owner with a dream — whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to grow — GM Business Growth Hub is here to help. Just like The Promise Company, your journey can begin with a conversation.
👉 Get in touch with GM Business Growth Hub today and
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