Hello,
this probably sounds like a stupid question but can someone explain the difference production wise of single and double cream?

Hello Aisling.
Not stupid at all don't worry.
The differences in Creams lie in the Butterfat content.
Double Cream has a butterfat content of 48%
Whipping Cream a butterfat content of between30-40%
Single Cream a butterfat content of 10-12%
This means that Double Cream is very rich and will whip but you need to be careful not to over whip it or it will curdle or split.
Whipping cream is softer, takes a bit longer to whip but is excellent for piping and for cakes etc.
Single cream will not whip at all and is used for pouring mostly or for some sauces.
Hope that helps? Was that what you need?

Thank-you Jennifer264 that's great. But what I really wanted to know is how it's produced. Having milked many cows in my time, the cream from the bulk tank is lovely, but what happens to it after the nice tanker man comes to get it! My father-in-law is a dairy farmer and would probably be able to tell me but I don't have several days to spare, bless him.
Thanks again

Woops sorry Aisling...went into Teacher mode there