A CAREER change has led Gordon Meek to a new business that is as different to his former job as chalk and cheese.
Gordon has had a radical departure from a 30-year career as a marine engineer to running his own cheese shop in Frodsham.
His former career saw him travel the world aboard ship, working on oil rigs and even building submarines.
But, at the age of 53, as a senior commissioning engineer project-managing contract work, he decided he'd had enough.
“That's when I stopped enjoying it; all I was doing was going to meetings and dealing with finance,” said Gordon. “I was fed up and I realised I needed something new, a complete break.”
It's three months now since this father-of-two opened The Cheese Shop in Church Street, and he said: “I absolutely love it!”
Gordon, his wife, Jo, a nursing manager and children, Becca and William, have lived in Frodsham for 26 years.
He is also a leader of the 3rd Frodsham Sea Scouts and he said he was looking for a new working base in the town.
“I've always been interested in good food and when I saw the lease was available on this place, I just thought it would make the perfect cheese shop.”
Gordon and Jo reseached the business for months, building up their knowledge from wholesalers and suppliers.
“I'm glad to say the business is doing well. I already supply The Carriers Arms pub in Hatchmere and Forest Hills Hotel in Frodsham, and customers are coming back for more.
“I have a full range of cheeses, but the best sellers so far are the local cheeses, which come from within 40 miles of the shop. Customers also think it’s a good thing someone local has taken it on.”
Jo works at the shop on Saturdays and Gordon, who already employs a Friday assistant, is considering taking on another to work Thursdays.
“Things are looking good so far and I've absolutely no regrets. My family motto is: fortune favours the brave, and I think I have taken a brave leap.”
