A Northamptonshire food networking group, launched earlier this year to support those within the local food and drink sector, has received praise from one of the country’s leading rural charities.

 ‘Made in Northamptonshire’ was commended by Graeme Willis of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) following his visit to Northampton to speak about the charity’s latest national research into links between buying local and quality of life.  

 “I have been leading a project team looking into the value of local food webs” said Graeme, “those being networks of local producers, suppliers, outlets and shoppers, and the value they have in maintaining key links between the countryside and the community. I was delighted to be given the opportunity to explain our findings and indeed to learn that Northamptonshire’s local food web appears to be very much alive and kicking! This group is doing a great job to promote the excellence that’s on its doorstep and, as it grows, I wish it continued success.” In return, Graeme learned more about the work that his charity is doing here in the county from the Development and Education Manager for Northamptonshire CPRE, Sally Hanrahan.    

 The group’s second meeting was held at The Seafood Cafe in Northampton and following Graeme’s talk, members visited two further independent stores on St. Giles Street – The Food Hall and St. Giles Cheese - to see how their respective owners are supporting the ‘buy local’ ethic. Said Alistair Fawn of The Food Hall, “I found Graeme’s talk really inspiring and indeed reassuring to think that we’re doing something so positive right here in the heart of the town. Thanks to the county’s wonderful producers, I’m able to stock everything from beers to wines, honeys to oils and pickles to pies, which all helps to reinforce a real sense of food identity.”

Meanwhile Peter Anstee, who runs Montagu Hampers at Slipton near Kettering, saw the value of joining the group. ”This was my first meeting and it exceeded all my expectations. As a fine food hamper retailer I came across a couple of potential new local suppliers and it was great to meet those who share my passion for fine food as well as find out about local events such as the Oundle Food Festival. I would recommend anyone with an interest in good local produce to join.”

‘Made in Northamptonshire’ was set up by Rachel Mallows of The Mallows Company with the support of the Northamptonshire Enterprise Partnership (NEP) to build on the success of the Carlsberg UK Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards. Said Rachel “Although we’ve only been going for just a few months, it’s great to see how the group is already putting like-minded people in touch with each other, whether it’s sourcing new products to stock - like Peter - or finding new outlets through which producers can sell their wares. I think those who came along also got a real boost from what Graeme had to say, knowing that their efforts are truly valued.”

 ‘Made in Northamptonshire’ is aimed at:

• producers wishing to find new markets and to work collaboratively
• retail outlets wanting to sell the ‘best of Northamptonshire’
• chefs and eateries looking to source good local produce
• county food and drink businesses which support local business
• people who love the ‘buy local’ philosophy

Membership is FREE and open to anyone from the food and drink sector who would like to join. For further information, please visit www.letyourselfgrow/local or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 01933 664437.