Big names back our campaign (From Free Press Series)

Big names back our campaign

David Davies, AM

When Monmouth AM David Davies marries next month he has insisted on locally produced fresh produce and meat for his wedding reception.

"I always make a point of buying locally-produced food and using those shops which stock those local products," he said.

"By buying locally-produced food you are not only getting quality you are helping farms and producers of food in your local community."

The AM has a weakness for ice cream and he recalled a recent visit to Brooke's Wye Valley Dairy Company, at Devauden, near Chepstow.

"They produce some of the best ice cream I have ever tasted and I am sure their secret is the quality and freshness of the milk that comes from their local herds."

Huw Edwards, MP

"This is something that I feel strongly about. It is important for our local farming community that their produce goes to local people.

"Monmouthshire beef, lamb and other produce is something that should be marketed more because it is of high quality.

"I am pleased to see that Monmouthshire County Council has a food strategy but agree that more can be done to get local food into local schools.

"I think that any new retailers coming into Monmouthshire should show a commitment to local farmers."

He said he hoped the new cattle market would act as a catalyst for promoting local meats in Monmouthshire.

Michael German, AM

"There is something like £300 million of food being consumed in Wales but less than 15 percent is being purchased here.

"The challenge is to put people who buy food in contact with those who can supply it. "I am delighted to support the campaign. It is particularly important for a rural county like Monmouthshire where local farmers need our support.

"Local councils need to adjust their catering contracts so it favours local producers.

"We also need to encourage local farmers to get together to provide a consistent supply of produce.

"That's the only way they would be able to tender for a school contract. One farmer on his own would not be able to meet demand."

Cllr David Waring, Leader, Monmouthshire Council

Cllr Waring is also chairman of governors at Overmonnow School in Monmouth.

He said: "I would back your campaign 100 percent and so would the council. We should be doing all we can to help local producers.

"This issue has not been debated at full council but that is not to say that it won't in the future."

He added: "I would be very interested to find out the strength of feeling in Monmouthshire so that we can act upon it.

"I would say there is definitely the political will in Monmouthshire to support this and I think it is a debate we should all be having."