Award-winning equestrian and founder of Ginger Hospitality, Angela, 46, lives in rural Rimington, juggling clients, horses, dogs – and the occasional runaway sheep
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do.
I’m married to Tim, and between us we have five grown-up children, five grandchildren, three horses, two black labs, one maltichon, three cats and 46 Herdwick sheep. Life is busy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!
I grew up as part of the Purdy’s of Rochdale ice cream family, and spending long hours in an ice cream van from the age of 14 quickly taught me the value of customer service and the ins and outs of the food industry.
After building a career in recruitment, I founded Ginger Hospitality in 2014. It felt like coming home to an industry that’s part of my DNA. Our mission is simple: to connect brilliant people with brilliant places to work, from Michelin-starred restaurants to much-loved local pubs. We’ve grown steadily over the years, expanding from our Lancashire roots to serve clients nationwide.
How long have you lived here?
I’m a Lancashire lass, born in Rochdale, and we moved to the Ribble Valley in 2012 when one of our daughters started at Stonyhurst. We first settled in Grindleton and have been in Rimington for the past eight years. The views of Pendle Hill from our garden are hard to beat. I’ve always lived in Lancashire and honestly can’t imagine living anywhere else.
How do you usually spend your days?
Most days start with emails, followed by a dog walk and a ride on one of my horses. Dressage is my passion, and I train regularly at White Hill Stud with Grand Prix rider Jess Dunn. I aim to be in the office by 9am, when it’s all about Ginger. I try to fit in Reformer Pilates classes at MM Physiotherapy in Whalley, and if there’s time left, you’ll find me enjoying a meal out or catching up with family.
What do you love most about living in Lancashire?
The countryside here is stunning, we’re so lucky to live right in the middle of rolling hills and green fields. There’s a real sense of community too; the Rimington families Facebook page even keeps everyone updated on escaped sheep and wandering dogs (our little off-white maltichon, Lily, has featured several times). I love how supportive, warm and welcoming people are, and the local food scene is incredible – we’re lucky to have so many talented chefs and welcoming eateries on our doorstep. There’s a pace of life here that lets you breathe, but life is never dull.
Describe your perfect day out in Lancashire.
It would start with a walk-up Pendle Hill with Tim and our labs, followed by a pub lunch. In the afternoon, I’d hack or train the horses and finish the day with a good TV drama at home. We love a Nordic noir thriller!
What’s your favourite place to visit and why?
Pendle Hill is special to me – the views are breathtaking and it’s a place where I can really unwind. I also love visiting Eight at Gazegill, owned by friends who helped us when we started farming. It’s a place filled with good memories and great food.
We might not eat there every week, but we do a weekly meat shop at their organic butchers.
Where do you go to shop, eat or treat yourself?
For shopping, La Tete et Tout and Raffia in Clitheroe are my go-tos when I’m after something special. When it comes to eating out, we’re spoilt for choice – Northcote, The Black Bull Inn, and The Barley Mow are favourites, not just for the food but because we work with them through Ginger Hospitality. Supporting local businesses really matters to me, and it’s a joy to see our clients thrive.
What’s your favourite hidden gem?
Ings Beck, which runs through our fields at the foot of Pendle Hill. It’s peaceful and full of wildlife, with nothing but birdsong, nature and the occasional splash from our dogs. It’s my sanctuary, and a reminder of why I love living here.
