Kelly Turkeys in Danbury launch Christmas drive-thru

Kelly Turkeys, in Danbury, are planning another festive drive-thru for their customers, to pre-empt any issues that may be caused through covid measures.

There are 1,800 customers who have ordered a turkey that will be able to collect them through a drive-thru system.

They will be greeted by Santa and his elves, as well as the Grinch who will be making a guest appearance.

Managing director Paul Kelly said: “Traditionally we’ve made a big thing of our collection days at Christmas, turning part the hatchery into a veritable Santa’s Grotto with hot mulled cider, mince pies, and carols.

“It proves very popular particularly with families with children as part of the build-up to the big day.”

In the past, during the two collection days, there were typically 20 cars waiting to be parked.

However last year the farm catered for up to 50 cars at a time and organised the traffic flow to avoid delays while circulating and leaving the farm.

Payment was collected beforehand, with the 20 staff all well briefed in their respective roles.

Three teams of four staff identified customers on their laptops, located their individual turkey, and delivered it into the car boot.

It has been described as ‘looking rather reminiscent of a car ferry terminal - except for the two young ladies with trays of mulled cider, mince pies and sausage rolls circulating in the lanes and traditional Christmas carols relayed across the whole area.’

Paul added: “Last year’s festive drive-thru was great fun and seemed to cheer so many people up after the Christmas Covid restrictions were announced.

“One lady actually cried with joy and told us we’d made her Christmas ‘by going the extra mile and ensuring we made collecting her turkey still just as special’.

“Just that one comment made all the work worthwhile.”

Those looking for further information should contact Paul Kelly at Kelly Turkeys on 01245 223581, or Roger Ranson on 07803 086462.