MORE than 40 local food producers will be showcasing their goods at a free Food and Drink Festival at the Two Bridges Hotel near Princetown today (Thursday).

The event is being held in conjunction with Devon's Celebration of Food, and offers an opportunity to get to know where food comes from and save on food miles by supporting local businesses.

There will be a wide variety of produce available to taste and buy including goats' cheeses, tangy chutneys, preserves, delicious jams, home-made breads, cakes and pastries.

There will also be plenty of beverages to try, such as fruit cordials, apple juices, ciders, wine and beer.

The free event is open to both the public and commercial buyers, and could prove useful for hotels, B&Bs and restaurants to source new products for their menus.

West Devon mayor Cllr Alison Clish-Green said: 'This is a chance to celebrate the wonderful range of products available locally and to recognise the importance of this sector to our local economy.'

Robin Deitch, Food and Drink Devon network co-ordinator said: 'The recent Food and Drink Festival at Hatherleigh was a great success with more visitors than ever and all the producers benefited from many new sales leads.

'These events are a great opportunity to network with like minded businesses and show how important local food is to the region.'

The events are organised by Food and Drink Devon which offers business support and training opportunities to small scale local food and drink producers throughout Devon.

The Food and Drink Devon Network Development Project is funded by Greater Dartmoor LEAF, incorporating funding from the EU, Defra, SWRDA and LEADER and West Devon Borough Council, South Hams District Council, Teignbridge District Council and Food and Drink Devon.

For further information contact Robin Deitch, Food and Drink Devon Network co-ordinator on 07817 043588 or email [email protected]">[email protected]

The festival is being held from 10.30am to 3.30pm.