AN innovative new scheme to encourage people to eat locally produced food is being launched at Okehampton Farmers? Market next week.

Derek Godfrey-Brown, the driving force behind the market, is spearheading a new marketing campaign, aimed at spreading the message even further that purchasing locally produced food is the best way to eat.

Mr Godfrey-Brown said hampers are to be produced, plus a brochure listing the different produce which is available.

These hampers ? and the brochures ? will be available to the self-catering holiday trade and to people living in the area.

Mr Godfrey-Brown said: ?We are also discussing the idea of a welcome pack to people moving into the area, with a definitive list of produce and where they can get it.?

He said the aim of targeting the self-catering holiday trade was to try and discourage holidaymakers driving to West Devon for their vacation with a car loaded down with provisions.

?If people enjoy the countryside, why not enjoy the food that?s produced there?? said Mr Godfrey-Brown.

The hampers are a similar but more specialised form of vegetable boxes that are produced by organic food producers.

Through the scheme, with its dedicated brochure, people will be able to choose exactly what they want. The hampers could be sent as a present, be ready and waiting for holidaymakers in their accommodation, or to new home-owners.

An example of the new hamper scheme will be on show at Okehampton Farmers? Market on Saturday February 15.