Buy local produce

The countryside provides more than just an attractive backdrop to the festivities – it also puts the food on our table.

But is it the Sussex countryside which is putting the food on your table?

With a bit of effort, we can all direct more of our grocery budget towards local businesses which keep the county’s rural economy alive and manage the countryside which we all enjoy.

The benefit to those who buy locally is not only great-tasting, healthy food, but the knowledge that we are supporting the local economy and reducing food miles.

Of course attempts to buy locally can be frustrating.

Some shops make a token gesture - the procurement of a few local items in order to justify a marketing slogan.

So helping encourage good intentions to become reality will require some pester power.

Ask where the food you are buying comes from.

Please also support farmers’ markets – a great source of local food - and investigate your local farm shop and butcher.

In the run-up to Christmas and beyond, please use your buying power to make a difference.

JONATHAN LUCAS

Chairman, Sussex branch

Country Land and Business Association