A GROUP of leading industry experts are hoping that they can inspire the next generation to pursue a career in food production.

Eighteen brand new ‘food ambassadors’ have been trained through the Nurturing Excellence project at Duchy College, thanks to funding from the European Social Fund.

Industry research shows that this sector needs thousands of new entrants over the next 10 years to fill the gap of an ageing workforce and to grow one of Cornwall’s greatest industries.

Head of nurturing excellence at Duchy College, Angie Shepherd, said: ‘Cornwall’s food and drink sector is a diverse and exciting place to start a career. We have a well-deserved reputation for our premium produce and are recognised nationally and internationally for quality and innovation.’ 

All of the ambassadors are now planning on working with local schools to carry out some workshops to highlight the breadth of careers available to them.