Sandy's new role at regional food group

Northumbria Larder, the Regional Food and Drink Group for the North East of England, has appointed Sandy Duncan as its General Manager, a new post at the organisation.

Sandy, an experienced Newcastle-born businesswoman, has been in charge of Business Development at Northumbria Larder, for the past three years.

In that time membership has grown to over 65 small and medium-sized businesses, which have won numerous awards for North East-produced food at national food fairs and exhibitions, and have provided a rich and diverse culinary experience for visitors and residents in the region.

Sandy has also led local producers at some of the world's most prestigious international food festivals, such as Salone del Gusto in Turin last year.

Late last year, OneNorthEast, the regional development agency, invested more than £750,000 in the development of Northumbria Larder, which was set up in 2002.

It is the youngest regional food group in the country and widely regarded as one of the most successful. Its members in Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, County Durham, and Tees Valley are dedicated to producing the best of local food which is in great demand throughout the North East and further afield.

In confirming Sandy Duncan's appointment today, One NorthEast's Rural and Environment Manager Frances Rowe said: "Sandy has a great wealth of experience and has played a key role in Northumbria Larder establishing a strong reputation in the regional food and drink sector over the last three years."

"Her knowledge of the sector together with the additional funding provided by One NorthEast will help Northumbria Larder develop the market for quality food and drink. This will support the region's rural economy by providing an outlet for the quality produce being made here. The expansion of the local food and drink market will also make a significant contribution to our tourism industry and the image of the region."