Sophie Mair and Julie Rumbelow started keeping three alpacas as pets 14 years ago, but as their numbers began to grow they began thinking about clever ways to help them earn a living.
Founded in 2018 at Oakdale Farm, off Keepers Lane in Antrobus, Cheshire Alpacas sells socks made from alpaca wool and also organises alpaca walks, birthday parties and weddings, complete with alpacas dressed in wreaths and bow ties.
Their latest idea, outdoor Pilates classes with alpacas (commonly known as ‘Al-Pilates’), is generating a lot of attention.
On Friday 10th May, Sophie and Julie were invited to a glamorous ceremony at Bolton Wanderers Football Club to receive the Leisure and Tourism Business of the Year award at the North West Family Business Awards.
Sophie said she “couldn’t believe it” when their names were read out.
The 27-year-old said: “I’m still super excited about it.
“This song is, I’m on top of this world, This song was playing when we went to collect our award and it still brings tears to my eyes when I hear it on the radio.
“We started with just three alpacas and now we have 43.
“When you hear the laughter of visitors when the alpacas enter the Pilates area and start pronking, you know it’s great for the alpacas. They love it.”
“Because the girls are pregnant or breastfeeding most of the year, we only use the boys for Pilates and other experiences. I think the girls need a break.”
“Some of them are currently pregnant. The baby is due in June or July.”
“They are the real stars of the show and they’re sure to get plenty of treats and cuddles.”
Julie, 49, said: “At least one visitor recommended us, but we don’t know who it was. We’re so grateful.”
“We had 40 applications in our department alone, so I guess we must be doing something right.”
This marks the third summer that Cheshire Alpacas have held Al-Pilates classes on the farm, led by Lymm-based instructor Layla Coulter.
With over 15 years of experience teaching Pilates, Leila says working with Cheshire Alpacas is the fulfilment of a lifelong dream.
She said: “Pilates is a holistic mind and body experience and alpacas really enhance that holistic aspect.”
“Practicing whilst immersed in nature adds great value to the overall experience.
“When I’m abroad I often see classes taking place outdoors so it was a real honour to be asked to do this and it just felt right.
“It’s something I’ve always wanted to offer but here in the UK most people don’t dare because of the climate.
“But here, the added interest in the animals makes people even more motivated to come along. It really makes a big difference.”
The team are taking bookings for alpilates sessions on Tuesdays at 7.30pm and Fridays at 6.15pm – for more information visit the Cheshire Alpacas website.
The cost is £20 per person and includes interacting with the alpacas.
