25 June 2007, 19:27 PM
  • Distinctly Cumbrian has just launched an online directory of Cumbria's food and drink producers in order to facilitate access to the area's specialities.

Mark Raine, administrator for Distinctly Cumbrian, says, “We had received numerous enquiries from businesses in the tourism and hospitality sectors about where and how to buy local produce, and the compilation of the Food Producers Directory seemed an efficient way of providing information to these people, while encouraging local procurement. We then realised that others would find the information useful, which is why we’ve put it online.

“It includes businesses making a wide range of food and drink products, from beer and fish, to ice cream and salt marsh lamb. There are people who create things from local produce - conserves, pies, bread, desserts - as well as primary producers of things like meat and dairy products.”

The aim of the directory is to help potential buyers get in contact with the food professionals of the area. It also gives many small producers an opportunity to make themselves known.

Mr Raine adds, “We’ve started out with all the food and drink businesses that have had grants or advice from Distinctly Cumbrian in recent years, but other local producers that wish to be included in the directory can contact us on 01768 891 555 and we’ll try to keep the listing as comprehensive as we can.”