RURAL Herefordshire is at the heart of a new food revolution aimed at transforming the county into one of the gourmet capitals of the world.

Herefordshire Council has launched a £150,000 campaign to join the planet's gastronomical elite and claim entry into the prestigious Slow Food movement.

Founded in Italy in 1986, Slow Food boasts membership from some of the most famed regions in France, Italy and America and was established to promote good local produce and as a reaction against fast food globalisation. And, as part of Herefordshire's bid, a new food festival will be launched this year to showcase the rich diversity of local produce.

A producer's trail linking together the county's finest bakers, butchers and independent retailers will also be launched. The bid will be co-ordinated by a new full-time officer to work on a two-year programme to secure entry into the Slow Food movement.

Cultural services manager Jane Lewis said: "The benefits of securing Slow Food status would be huge and could well put us on the world map - attracting more visitors and creating extra interest in the area. We've seen what Slow Food status has done for Ludlow and we'd like to follow in their footsteps."

The county's gourmet profile has already been raised through the Flavours of Herefordshire campaign, launched seven years ago.

As part of the campaign, directories showcasing producers have been published annually and copies of the latest edition are available by contacting 01432 260621.