The story behind Somerset’s award-winning skincare brand, Goats of the Gorge, was shared with West Buckland WI at its October meeting.
Ricky King, who runs the family business in partnership with his brother Daniel and dad and founder Nick King, explained that the business was started as the result of an accident in 2014.
Nick was diagnosed with low bone density following a car crash and his doctor advised him to drink goat’s milk. The result was a major improvement in his bone density and the decision to keep his own goats.
Soon two goats had expanded to a herd of 24, and the family had too much milk. First Nick tried cheese making, which Ricky said was a disaster.
Then he discovered that goat’s milk was great for the skin and he turned his attention to making soap, initially selling at farmers’ markets.
Such was the success of goat’s milk soap, the business expanded with more products and moved into sales from farm shops nationwide.
Goats of the Gorge was featured on the BBC programme Dragons Den in 2024 but failed to gain investment from the dragons. However, they did receive advice on how to grow the business.
Ricky explained that filming for Dragons Den took an hour and a half, although they only appeared on screen for seven minutes.
Since then, business has boomed and the brand is now widely available online and in stores and garden centres across the UK.
Most recently, the business began working with a Dubai-based pharmacy chain to supply its products to the Middle East.
Given the time dedicated to growing the brand, the family no longer keeps its own goat herd, instead taking its milk from the Bruton Dairy.
All soaps are still made by hand, but no longer in the family kitchen. Manufacturing has moved to a dedicated unit, which was once a former dairy.
Ricky said that goat’s milk has the same pH as human skin, so it does not disturb the skins natural balance. He said that people with conditions such as eczema or psoriasis find it very beneficial and they have had hundreds of positive reviews.
All products are certified cruelty free and use only natural ingredients.
President Christine Wombwell thanked Ricky for his interesting talk and wished the business well for the future.
Members then had a short refreshment break and an opportunity to sample and browse the skincare products.
To continue the celebrations for West Buckland WI’s 90th year, a commemorative carol service will take place on December 10th at West Buckland Parish Church.
Members from the Tone Valley WI Group have been invited to join for the festive and anniversary service, which will be followed by refreshments in the church.
Members were also reminded of West Buckland WI’s Christmas party.
Member Ann Sparks won first prize for October’s competition, with a large opalescent shell.
President Christine said that new members were always welcome and, in addition to the monthly meeting, regular activities take place including kurling, handicrafts, a walking group, book club, board games, a lunch club and coffee mornings.
West Buckland WI next meets on Tuesday, November 10th, at 7.30 pm, when members will hear about the health benefits of Tai Chi.
If you would like to visit or join, please contact Christine Wombwell on 01823 652863 or 07736712273 or email westbuckland@somerset.wi.org.uk
ABOVE: Left, Ricky King from Goats of the Gorge. Right, Cheryl Bailey and Christine Wombwell with Goats of the Gorge skincare products.
BELOW: Ann Sparks, monthly competition winner.
