By Chris Vince

It’s very important that we do what we can to support all local businesses, including local farmers. When we support a local business of any kind, we support a local family and contribute to a thriving local economy. That’s good for everyone.

There are plenty of good reasons to support local farmers. If food is sourced locally then we know exactly where it has come from and the distance it has travelled to get to our plate. This is an important consideration in relation to Co2 emissions which are having a negative impact on the planet’s climate. We can ask our local suppliers questions about their treatment of animals and whether they are fed on a natural diet. For an increasing number of people these things really matter.

Plus, there is a real opportunity to get involved. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting the Herts & Essex Community Farm in Foldcroft where volunteers from across the local area work together to plant and grow fruit and vegetables, with any surplus freely available to the local community. This is a great initiative which has really enriched the lives of those people who volunteer regularly as well as people like me who visit occasionally. These sorts of projects are great for everyone but particularly for young children who really enjoy spending time in nature and learning about where their food comes from. I’d encourage everyone to get along and visit Herts and Essex Community Farm and their Christmas celebration which is open to the whole family on 15 December from 12pm-2pm will be a great opportunity to support them and find out more.