Successful launch for The Year of Food and Farming

Press release - 25 September 2007

The Year of Food and Farming in Shropshire has got off to a flying start following a successful launch last Friday (21 September 2007).

Over 200 pupils from schools across Shropshire descended on Shrewsbury Town Square to launch the year long campaign to make children more aware of the journey of their food from farm to plate.

The children got involved in a number of activities including wheat grinding and butter churning. There were also wildlife quizzes and a guess the vegetable quiz, helping children to understand more about the environment and food they see in the fields.

Also on show were two day old chicks, JCB tractors and a number of local food producers.

John Everall, Cabinet member for sustainability, said: “This launch is the start of a year which we are hoping will help children reconnect with the environment and to able to make more informed choices about the food they eat.

“It is hoped that schools and children will be able to make use of opportunities being put forward such as farm and countryside visits, cookery clubs, growing activities and a range of resources designed to link food and farming with the curriculum.”

The event was organised by the Shropshire Rural Hub and Shropshire County Council and was supported by a number of local food and farming businesses and organisations.

There is a new national website highlighting the national programme, www.yearoffoodandfarming.org.uk. This will also give access to a wide range of materials and information.

Ends

For further information, call Ruth Hudson, Sustainability Assistant on (01743) 252577.
For media contact, call Laura Owen, Communications Officer, Economy & Environment on (01743) 253318.