Marsh farm makes buying local easier

Buying locally grown produce in Essex has become easier as Essex County Council has opened its first Corner Shop, selling Marsh Farm sausages, bacon, pork and free-range eggs.

The Corner Shop at Marsh Farm aims to encourage Essex residents to buy locally grown produce, which is important both for the environment and for the economy of Essex. The shop will not only sell produce from Marsh Farm but also ice cream from Colchester and preserves from Tiptree, with other local products being added as the shop expands. Future plans also include a directory of local farmers and producers to enable local residents find products close to home.

"Buying and eating locally grown produce is a significant way to reduce the impact you have on the environment - on average an item of food found in a supermarket will have travelled 1,000 miles, compared to 30 miles to a farmers' market. By setting up the Corner Shop we are hoping to encourage Essex residents to investigate what local produce is available near them, as well as making it easier to access produce from around the County. Essex has a wealth of fantastic quality food products," explained Councillor Tony Hedley, Deputy to the Cabinet Member for Strategic Co-ordination and Stakeholder Liaison. "With recent food scares, and more people adopting a healthier lifestyle, buying local also gives the added assurance of knowing where the food on your plate has come from."

Coinciding with the launch of the Corner Shop is a Farmer's Walk, organised by Essex County Council, DEFRA and Writtle College. Around 20 farmers from across the County attended the event at Marsh Farm to participate in discussions, and hear presentations on opportunities for local farmers working together.

Marsh Farm will also host a two day Food and Drink Festival on the 25th and 26th June celebrating Essex grown produce.