The new 2017/18 East Yorkshire Enjoy Local Food Guide was unveiled at a recent meeting of the East Riding of Yorkshire Rural Partnership at Bishop Burton College.
This edition marks the 15th year of the guide’s publication and is the biggest yet, running to 40 pages. The guide is packed with information on local food producers, suppliers, retailers and hospitality businesses that are proud to incorporate local produce into their menus.
At its inception, in 2002, the local food guide was produced by East Riding of Yorkshire Council. In the best spirit of partnership working, it has for many years now been produced jointly by the council and the East Yorkshire Local Food Network.
“The last few years has seen a phenomenal increase in consumer interest in local food and our local food businesses have responded magnificently to this trend,” said Graham Ward OBE, chair of the East Yorkshire Local Food Network.
“We are delighted that East Riding of Yorkshire Council continues its staunch backing of the sector, as illustrated by its tireless work in producing and disseminating our annual guide and we are grateful to our sponsors, McClarrons Insurance, for their invaluable support.”
Councillor Jane Evison, cabinet portfolio holder for economic investment and tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said:
“The range and availability of quality local food continues to grow and is testament to the passion and skill of local people and businesses that produce it.
“We look forward to more visitors and residents alike enjoying the very best food available anywhere.”
Helen Wright, rural policy and partnerships manager at East Riding of Council, added:
“Our first local produce guide was produced in 2002 as one way of supporting a farming sector that was then reeling from the dreadful Foot and Mouth outbreak of 2001 and other serious industry challenges. Now, much later, it is wonderful to see how the local food sector has prospered and how the guide has evolved to remain as popular and relevant as ever with the public and businesses alike.”
Free copies of the 2017/18 East Yorkshire Enjoy Local Food Guide are available for collection from Local Food Network member businesses, tourist information centres and council libraries and customer service centres. Copies will also be distributed at local food festivals and events throughout the year.
