THE regional development agency responsible for the two counties is encouraging people to take advantage of the quality foods on their doorstep.
Advantage West Midlands (AWM) has been given a key role in delivering an ambitious, multi-million-pound package of Government support for the regions' farmers and food producers.
John Edwards, AWM chief executive said the food and drink sector in the West Midlands employed more than 70,000 people and generated millions of pounds for the regional economy every year.
"It is vital that we give the fullest possible support to the sector.
"We are delighted to have been given responsibility - together with Government Office for the West Midlands and other partners - for implementing the Government's package of support in the West Midlands.
"Our priority should be to bring regional farmers and food producers closer to the consumer. The benefits of such a move would be enormous.
On the doorstep
"On the other side of the coin, regional consumers get what they want and become more aware of the huge range of top quality produce on their doorstep."
Prime Minister Rt Hon Tony Blair MP last week announced a £500m Strategy for Sustainable Farming and Food.
The strategy builds on the work of the policy commission on the future of farming and food.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article