Crowds flock to support local farmers (From Worcester News)

Crowds flock to support local farmers

3:31pm Monday 24th September 2007 in News

FARMERS in Worcestershire are celebrating after more than 1,000 people headed to a harvest food festival and celebration.

The NFU and Worcestershire Rural Hub were delighted to support the Autumn Harvest Food Festival at St Peter's Garden Centre, Norton, near Worcester at the weekend.

Despite the summer downpours and the threat of foot and mouth disease, farmers showed they are resilient and headed to the big event.

The farming and food spectacular, set up by Worcestershire Farmers' Market Association (WFMA) and St Peter's staff helped to highlight the success of farmers' markets.

The hub, Heart of England Fine Foods and the NFU also launched Worcestershire Year of Food and Farming at the event which aims to get young people reconnected to the countryside and the food they eat.

Children, teachers and many others were there on the day to find out more about the initiative and exciting plans for the year ahead including farm walks.

Spokesman for the NFU West Midlands Oliver Cartwright said: "We were delighted to be able to support Worcestershire farmers, WFMA and St Peter's.

"The whole event was really positive for the farming industry and helped to spark children's imaginations and get them excited about the food they eat and rural issues.

"Farmers needed this event as it has been a difficult few months for the industry and the festival and launch proved to be a really big hit.

"All those involved should be congratulated for their efforts."