Westlands Farm Shop, near Wickham, is celebrating British Food Fortnight by shining a light on some of its local suppliers.

During British Food Fortnight, which runs from the 20th of September to the 6th of October, customers will be able to visit the shop and enjoy special offers and tasters of the best food Hampshire has to offer.

Located in the heart of the Meon Valley, Westlands Farm Shop will feature different local producers each weekend during British food fortnight.

Since opening in 2001, Westlands Farm Shop has been nurturing local supply chains and supporting small businesses in the community. More than 50 per cent of its suppliers are local, with most being located within a 40-mile radius.

The shop champions local produce and supports small supply chains year-round, offering a platform for fellow family businesses and farmers to tell their stories.

Renowned local food and drink producers, including Bowman Ales, Homemade Brownie Company, and Wyches Vineyard, will be highlighted in the shop with stickers and information boards. Bere Dairy, located only five miles away, has been a proud partner of Westlands Farm Shop for over 20  years.

Kayleigh Collett, from Westlands Farm Shop, says supporting independent businesses is hugely important to help local economies thrive. 

"Around 50 per cent of our annual revenue is reinvested into local supply chains every year. With the support of residents, we can help to boost the local economy in the Meon Valley."

Robert Court from Bere Dairy said, "Without the support from Westlands Farm Shop, my business likely would not have survived the COVID-19 pandemic. Shopping small and local is the best way to support your local economy, and British Food Fortnight is an excellent initiative to bring the community together."

This fortnight, founded by Love British Food, aims to highlight the importance of shopping locally. From environmental benefits like reducing food miles, to the positive impact on the local economy. According to a report by The Federation of Small Businesses, for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business, 63p is re-spent in the local area.