A STRAWBERRY-picking enterprise is set to transform into an all-year-round farm business.

Husband-and-wife team Digby and Jill Machin founded Gate Helmsley Strawberries after they bought a parcel of land in 1983. Over the last 20 years, their business has grown to include a large range of soft fruits and summer vegetables, which are sold from June to August.

But now the business is set to expand even further by opening a caf and farm shop on the site in Stamford Bridge Road between Stamford Bridge and Gate Helmsley on April 5.

The company is also to relaunch with a new name, the Balloon Tree, inspired by an old chestnut tree at the corner of Buttercrambe Lane, which is a local landmark.

Mrs Machin said: "We are excited about the opportunity. It's a chance for us to expand."

She said the business was also branching out into rare breed meat, free-range eggs and year-round fresh produce. Most of the products sold in the farm shop will be produced on site, and the rest will be made by small local producers. Goods will include home-made cakes, ice-cream and local honey.

The caf will include a garden next to the lavender maze. The business will not forget its pick-your-own roots as visitors will still be able to pick strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries, asparagus, broad beans, sweetcorn and pumpkins on the site.

Updated: 09:45 Monday, March 22, 2004