THREE companies are joining together to give business a boost, help a local cause, and encourage people to 'Eat the Devon Way'.

Passionate food producers Langage Farm, Yarty Valley Cordials, and Hi-T's Fudge are organising a new food event to help drive the local economy and raise money for Children's Hospice South West.

Dingles Fairground Heritage Centre near Lifton will host the new 'Eat the Devon Way' food event over the spring bank holiday, Sunday and Monday May 29 and 30. 

The organisers hope to fill more than 80 stalls with a huge variety of local produce to create one of the largest consumer food and drink events in the South West, raising vital funds to help life-limited children in the process.

Tina Allwork, co-owner of Hi-T's Fudge, said: 'We aim to provide a fair profit for food producers, a huge variety of produce for customers and visitors, raise money for a worthy charity and allow Dingles to showcase their attractions.  It promises to be an excellent weekend for all.'

Paul Winterton, Langage Farm general manager, said: 'This is a remarkable situation whereby producers from Devon have got together to attempt to boost the local economy with their inspired idea of togetherness to overcome a very difficult economic climate. They are sharing costs to reduce overheads, which in turn brings produce which is amongst the finest in the world to the people of Devon. By buying local, Devon people are helping these businesses who can then afford to donate to local charities such as Children's Hospice South West, so everybody wins.' 

The event will see some familiar faces — such as Jacques Marhcal, Peter Gorton, and Jason Hornbuckle — as well as local producers, getting involved in cookery demonstrations. Children will also be encouraged to have a go. 

The food festivities will be extended into the local area with additional events being hosted by The Arundell Arms, Harris Arms, Lewtrenchard Manor, and Jethro's Club.

Judy Pride, community fundraiser for Children's Hospice South West, said: 'It is great to see local businesses getting together to put on a fantastic new event for people to enjoy in aid of our cause.'