FOOD lovers are being encouraged to sample local food created by local food producers this weekend.

Gourmet scotch eggs, freshly baked bread, artisan and local cheese will all be on the menu as part of Middlesbrough’s Local Food Weekend.

And last weekend’s Stewart Park Farmers Market showed their support for the campaign to improve access to food and drink that’s been produced within a 50-mile radius of the town.

To highlight their involvement, they invited a group of youngsters to try some of the local food on offer.

Julie Marton, of Pie Jackers, one of the stalls at the market, said: “The meat we use has all been reared on farms in Cleveland and North Yorkshire, the eggs in our egg wash are free range from a small-holding just outside Marske, we grow our own herbs and the butter in our all-butter pastry will soon come direct from a local dairy.

“Local often means fresher as it’s had a shorter journey from farm to fork and doing business this way means you’re dealing with the producer themselves so you can build strong relationships and be part of a fantastic network of local businesses that are creating jobs and helping grow the economy.”

Growing Middlesbrough wants to create a thriving network of producers, retailers and enthusiasts who work together to provide easier access to a wide range of locally-produced food and drink.

To help spread the message further Middlesbrough is holding its first Local Food Weekend this weekend and a growing number of restaurants, cafes and coffee shops are taking part.

They include The Curing House, The Oven, Woodlands Barbers and Coffee Shop, The Olde Young Tea House, Bedford Street Coffee House and TP Coffee House.

Joe Dunne, from Middlesbrough Environment City, said: “We would urge as many people as possible to show their support by dining out at participating outlets during the Local Food Weekends and eating dishes that have been made using locally-produced ingredients – just look out for ‘local food’ on the menu or ask for local.”

To find participating food outlets and for further information on Growing Middlesbrough visit www.growingmiddlesbrough.org.uk

Businesses wanting to get involved in the project should call 01642-579820.