FOOD and drink businesses across West Devon are being invited to take part in the popular 'Food Heaven' fortnight this summer to showcase the borough's first class reputation as a foodie paradise. This is the third year of the highly successful event, which takes place from July 12 to July 25. The fortnight, organised by West Devon Borough Council, promotes local firms and their produce and is run in conjunction with the Tavistock Food and Drink Festival, as it is held in the two weeks prior to the two-day show. Last year more than 2,000 people enjoyed the special 'Food Heaven' offers laid on by 36 participating businesses with events, including meal deals and discounts, a beer festival, Chef's taster sessions and free drinks and wine. The council produces 5,000 leaflets about the event which are distributed within the borough and beyond, helping boost business for participants. The Food Fortnight is also supported by West Devon EatWise, an initiative to raise the profile of locally produced food and drink. Any farmer, food producer, café, pub, shop or restaurant or organisation in the food and drink business who would like to be included in the food fortnight should call co-ordinator Robert Plumb on 01822 813620 or email [email protected]">[email protected] Alternatively, go to http://www.westdevon.gov.uk/foodfortnight">www.westdevon.gov.uk/foodfortnight for more information. Businesses who would like to participate must apply by April 25. West Devon mayor Cllr Dennis Bater said: 'The Food Heaven Fortnight is an ideal platform for our local businesses to promote the great products that West Devon has to offer. I would especially like to see businesses in the Hatherleigh and Dartmoor areas embrace this worthwhile and enjoyable event too.' Exhibitors are also being sought for the Tavistock Food Festival. Jeffrey Stackhouse, chairman of the Tavistock event, held on Saturday July 26 and Sunday July 27 in Bedford car park, said it was exciting the Food Festival had become an annual 'expectation' and the borough's Food Fortnight was an integral part of the festival's success. He said: 'Local food produce is becoming increasingly important with the escalating cost of food miles. We have over 35 confirmed exhibitor bookings and, as last year, Master Chef Peter Gorton will be organising his ever popular celebrity chef demonstration programme.' The marquee layout will be retained and there will be additional seating for visitors. This year's main sponsor is Wessex Heritage. Potential exhibitors should contact Jeffrey Stackhouse through the website http://www.tavistockfoodfestival.co.uk">www.tavistockfoodfestival.co.uk
