Western Morning News (Saturday)
Devon pins hopes of post-Covid boost on its brilliant food
DEVON’S hospitality businesses are pinning their hopes on the county’s top quality food and drink to lift them out of the coronavirus crisis as the nation opens up again.
And the body that represents many food producers and restaurants, Food Drink Devon, has enlisted the support of wine writer and TV presenter Oz Clarke and launched a new video and website to showcase the region’s offerings.
Peter Gorton, award-winning chef and most recently appointed Food Drink Devon board member explains: “It has been such a challenging twelve months for our industry but we are all optimistic that there are better times ahead.
“We have worked tirelessly to support our members during the recent lockdowns and want to continue this work with a big boost for them all, as we enter a new post-lockdown era. We’re thrilled to be launching our new website which features our fabulous new video and shines a spotlight on the amazing produce available in our bountiful county.”
Food Drink Devon say the county’s unique combination of moorland grazing, rich arable soil and coastal waters means that nowhere else in Britain boasts the same variety of fresh local produce.
From grass-fed cattle and free range poultry to fresh fruit and vegetables, rapeseed oil to seaweed and local fish and shellfish, Devon has it all right on its doorstep and the organisation believes its new website (www.fooddrinkdevon.co.uk) will help locals and visitors find it all with a huge directory of local producers.
Those searching for a meal can choose from a selection that includes everything from world class streetfood to cosy cafés serving Devonshire cream teas, charming pubs matching inspirational food with local brews and innovative restaurants delivering exceptional dinners.
Board director Howard Davies, founder of Salcombe Distilling Co. says: “We have always represented a large cohort of members but we have been overwhelmed with new applications in the last few months.
“Having witnessed the support we have been giving to our established members and in anticipation of the potential for a huge staycation summer, our membership has surged to over 300 producers, retailers and hospitality businesses and details of each one can be found on our website.
“It is the perfect one stop shop, if you are looking for a delicious meal out or want to pick up some fantastic local produce.”
The film that sits prominently on the new website’s homepage is a collaboration of new and existing footage, created by videographers at The Really Good Media Company and features Peter Gorton preparing dishes from produce supplied by Food Drink Devon members. Filming took place at The Husbandry School in Bickington and their beautiful landscapes, kitchen and animals all star in the film.
Oz Clarke will host the Devon food awards, planned for October 4.