When it comes to promoting its local food producers it seems to me that Berkshire has always lagged behind a bit. To the west we all know and love Cotswold cheese, lamb and other gorgeous sundries and over the past five years Hampshire Fare has done a wonderful job celebrating farmers markets and making sure that everyone knows about local producers. But while Antony Worrall Thompson has certainly done his bit to promote the cause closer to home, we've still got a long way to catch up with our near neighbours on teh local food front.
That's whhy I was so pleased to be asked to speak at the launch of the Local Flavours Festival to be held in September. It's the first of its kind to involve the three counties of Berks, Bucks and Oxon and it will open people's eyes to the wonderful products we have in our midst. It's being promoted at May's Henley Food Festival - another great success - and it's something that ought to take off. So look out in September for participating restaurants, pubs, delis etc. and you'll be surprised - and delighted - by what's on offer.