AN attempt to get Tavistock recognised as the best food town in the south west has sparked a new policy by enthusiastic town councillors. Tavistock has been entered in the major national competition by Tavistock Forward, whose chairman John Taylor this month asked the council to agree to back locally produced foods and drinks to the hilt. Members of the council?s finance committee last week welcomed Tavistock Forward?s efforts on behalf of the town. Cllr Norma Woodcock said: ?I think this is a splendid initiative. Anything that puts Tavistock in national focus can do nothing but good ? I would say we must support this, it?s important for organisations such as councils to be in support of this initiative and we should do so wholeheartedly.? Cllr Alison Clish-Green said: ?I think we are very fortunate living where we do, with the variety of local produce, and I think this portfolio is an excellent document.? Cllr Clish-Green proposed that the council, wherever possible, should use locally produced foodstuffs. The committee backed the proposal, which is due to be ratified by the full council when it meets on January 3. Tavistock?s portfolio in the South West Food and Drink Awards is currently being reviewed by assessors in the competition, instigated by a range of organisations, including Taste of the West and South West Tourism. A low profile visit to the town will be made during January and shortlisted towns will be visited by a panel of celebrity judges between February and the end of March. Category winners will be announced in April, before the overall competition winner is picked around the end of the month. There are four towns in Tavistock?s category ? the others competing for the title are Bridport, Totnes and Honiton.
