A NEW initiative to highlight the merits of buying local has been launched by the national park authority and Visit Exmoor.

They are working together to support local producers and promote how the landscape and communities benefit from produce sustainably grown, reared and prepared within Greater Exmoor.

Stores are displaying ‘Produced in Exmoor’ signs to make it easier for shoppers to identify local produce, while delivering food that is more tasty, nutritious and sustainable. 

Sarah Bryan, chief executive of Exmoor National Park Authority, said: “Many local producers here are small-scale farmers championing low-impact approaches that work with, not against nature. Much of the livestock is grass-fed, making our local lamb and beef tastier and healthier, as well as more sustainable.

“With fewer food miles and in turn less packaging, switching to local produce can help people reduce their carbon and plastic footprint, while supporting our rural communities.”

The Exmoor Hill Farming Network, Edible Exmoor plus numerous local shops and retailers have already got behind the campaign, with Wheddon Cross Central Convenience Store and Roadwater Community Shop among the first to display the new branding.

Further information can be found on the Exmoor National Park website’s East Exmoor link.