A Cowbridge farmer has launched a zero-mile milk business to promote local produce and drive customers away from supermarket plastic.

Tomos Adams, 28, who lives on Llanfrynach Farm in Cowbridge, set up The Milk Shed with his father, David. "I originally looked at the idea about five years ago," said Tomos.

"I saw someone's machine on a farm, and I thought it would be something that could work well for us. It's a great way to make things more sustainable."

A robotic machine milks the cows, then milk is put in a pasteuriser to heat up for 30 minutes at 64°C. The milk is then cooled down again at 2-3°C before being placed in the vendor at the vending machine for customers to buy.

Tomos bought the vending machine in May 2020 and planning permission was granted for the venture in September 2021.

Despite opening the same weekend as Storm Eunice, The Milk Shed has been a popular hit since day one. "It's going well so far," said Tomos. "We've also had a lot of support from Food Centre Wales to achieve our food standards."

Customers can buy the milk using contactless payment. Bottles are sold for £2, or customers are welcome to bring their containers to collect the milk. Milkshake syrups are also available for 50p each.

Expansion to more locations could be on the cards for The Milk Shed, but Tomos is not focusing on building a bigger business right now and does not want to lose sight of being a zero-mile business.

"We have been approached about putting vending machines in other places, but at the moment I'm very happy with what we're doing and it's not something we're looking into right now," he said.

The Milk Shed is open seven days a week, 24 hours a day.

Click here to keep updated on The Milk Shed through their Facebook page.