Since they joined the family business in October 1981, they have seen many changes in the dairy industry while working hard to build an enviable brand. Ian is responsible for the technical and production side of the business and David is largely responsible for sales. Cropwell Bishop Creamery is the only family owned and run business in the Stilton Cheese Makers Association and its quality is renowned worldwide. Cropwell Bishop cheeses have picked up 40 prizes in 2006 alone and the trophy room is bursting at the seams! (see attached prize list for 2006) But the Skailes family have never rested on their laurels for even one second and always strive to produce the very best.

A typically understated ceremony took place in the Creamery this week (17th October), with everyone kitted out in protective clothing. Chris Morley, Cropwell Bishop’s general manager presented the brothers with silver photo frames; everyone had a glass of champagne and a piece of stilton or fruitcake (decorated by the quality control manager to look like a stilton!) before getting back to work.

David’s son, Ben Skailes joined Cropwell Bishop a year ago and in the past month, Ian’s son, Robin Skailes joined his father at the Creamery, so it looks as though Stilton will stay in the family for a while longer.

Ian and David thanked all the staff for their dedication to the company over the past quarter of a century.