A LOCAL authority is showing its commitment to farmers in their area by making a commitment to buy local food whenever possible.

The pledge by Ryedale District Council comes as an updated version of the successful Ryedale Local Food Directory is launched.

The second edition is a joint effort between York and Rye-dale Friends of the Earth, Ryedale District Council and the local primary care group

It highlights the fact that much of the food bought by the public has been transported great distances.

The alternative is to buy locally, and the directory promotes locally-sourced food, including that sold at local farmers' markets like the one in Malton, due to reopen on Saturday, where the new edition will be launched.

"Buying local food helps alleviate many of the problems, like climate change caused by unnecessary vehicle movements, and contributes to a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle," said a spokesman.

The directory lists a wide variety of food, including organic produce, from the district, and also lists where fair-traded food can be found.

To back the initiative, the district council has voted to serve as much locally-produced food in its canteen at Ryedale House as possible, and to encourage people in the district to think carefully about the source of the food they buy.

John Brown, the council's environmental coordinator, said: "We are pleased to be able to support this valuable directory again. We hope it will inspire people to sample the many excellent local products that it highlights. We would also like to urge other organisations, companies and businesses to follow the council's lead in making a positive move to buying locally."