As a small, family-run vineyard and orchard, the Sykes family, together with our team, roll up our sleeves and get stuck in.
Clive Sykes, our founder
The driving force behind Roughlow Farm.
Clive’s story has come full circle, studying at Harper Adams Agricultural College in Shropshire, qualifying as an agronomist and beginning his career supporting farmers and growers across the Cotswolds and the Vale of Evesham. His path led into marketing, where he founded Sykes Cottages - a hugely successful, family built, holiday letting business. After the sale of Sykes Cottages and launching a smaller portfolio of luxury holiday homes under Catch the Breeze Retreat, life has brought him back to his roots - quite literally…
Clive always dreamed of his own vineyard and orchard, and that long-held passion has taken shape at Roughlow Farm, working hands-on with the land and closely with the team to grow fruit, cultivate vines, and build something special.
Not one for sitting still, Clive spends most of his time outdoors, walking his dog, exploring the local countryside, and discovering new corners of the UK. He’s happiest when active, whether skiing, climbing, playing tennis, or doing anything that gets him outside. For Clive, having a vineyard and orchard is the perfect excuse to stay active out in nature…
Clive is especially excited about what the Cheshire land is beginning to produce. After harvesting grapes from their Bacchus vines last year; he’s eagerly awaiting the first taste of their own wine. He still feels immense pride, every time they bottle fresh apple juice - and even more so to seeing people’s reaction when drinking it.
Combining decades of business experience with a lifelong love of the land, Clive is proud to be building something meaningful and sustainable at Roughlow Farm - rooted in nature, full of flavour, and designed to be enjoyed.
As Farm and Garden Manager, Tim is responsible for overseeing the care and development of the land - from vineyard to orchard to kitchen garden. His role is as varied as the seasons: one day might involve taping vine shoots in the three-acre vineyard, the next potting up seedlings or planning spray schedules and feeding rotations. He works closely with Tom to bring it all to life and values the flexibility that comes with working closely with nature - especially when the weather calls for a quick change of plan.
Outside of work, Tim loves exploring the countryside with his wife and Labrador, playing the piano, and learning mixed martial arts - balancing creativity, calm, and challenge in equal measure.…
Tim, our farm & garden manager
Tim joined the team at Willington Press in 2021 as the gardener - and not long after, farming found its way onto his job description too. What started with planting apple trees soon evolved into establishing a full vineyard, and Tim has been at the heart of Roughlow Farm’s transformation ever since.
Before joining, Tim trained as both a gardener and a botanist. He completed a horticulture apprenticeship through Sparsholt College, followed by the prestigious Kew Diploma of Horticulture. Although his roots were firmly in gardening, he’d always had an interest in farming - and has thoroughly enjoyed seeing Roughlow grow into a thriving fruit farm…
This year, Tim is most looking forward to having the orchard, vineyard, and flower beds in top shape - weed-free, thriving, and full of healthy plants.
After four years on the land, he says he’s finally got the hang of it… though he admits he may have said that last year too.
At Roughlow Farm, Tom works closely with Tim, managing the 20-acre site. His role is all-encompassing, from grass cutting and weed control to pruning, spraying fertilisers and pest treatments, and harvesting apples and grapes. He’s also responsible for replanting any diseased trees and vines, helping to keep the land thriving and productive throughout the seasons.
Outside of work, Tom is always active and outdoors. He enjoys cycling, kayaking, football, bouldering, and long walks-especially around National Trust properties. He’s also a keen cook and is passionate about all things food-related…
Tom, our gardener
Tom joined Willington Press in 2025, bringing with him a strong background in horticulture and estate care. Tom began his career as a gardening apprentice, whilst studying at Reaseheath College. He was later awarded Horticulture Apprentice of the Year and developed his craft across a 440-acre estate and an award winning 8-acre garden, before joining the team at Willington.
Tom is particularly excited about the ongoing development of the vineyard at Roughlow Farm and is looking forward to harvesting an even greater yield of grapes each year as the vines continue to mature.
