RetAiler digs deep to help support future of fArming

Agricultural association agrees year-long deal with Co-operative

A leading retailer is backing a popular Peterborough-based countryside initiative which inspires thousands of children about food and farming. The Central England Co-operative has agreed a year-long sponsorship package with Kids Country, which is the education arm of the East of England Agricultural Society.

Under the deal, the Co-operative will provide financial supportandlocalresourcesto supportthe18eventsthatKids Country will hold during the next 12 months.

Its programme consists of interactive, hands-on events about food, farming and the countryside.

Activities include potato planting and harvesting, learning about chickens, bee observatory visits and the annual Food & Farming Day at the East of England Showground.

In 2016, the programme reachedmorethan6,000children from across the Eastern region and beyond.

Karen Ball, community relations officer, said: “The Co-operative has a long tradition of giving back to the com- munity, and we welcome the opportunitytomakearealdifference to the lives andeducation of local children.

“We look forward to building on our successful partnership with Kids Country, and bring a greater understanding of food provenance and the countryside to children through these wonderful events.”

The Kids Country team is headed up by Sandra Lauridsen, whosaid:“Wearedelighted to be working with Central England Co-operative.

“Their support will help us to deliver an even more exciting and engaging programme in 2017.”