Lord gets a tasty treat

The National Farmers Union, that is supporting the event, has been working with Staffordshire Rural Hub, young farmers, Rodbaston College and other groups and organisations ahead of the launch.

It will take place in Lichfield's Market Square from 10am on September 15, marking the start of the educational year on farming issues.

The Year of Food and Farming promotes healthy living by giving children direct experience of food, farming and the countryside, and aims to spark interest in food and rural issues.

A meeting at Amerton Farm and Craft Centre, near Stafford, discussed the plans and the year ahead.

A series of farm visits, school events and other ideas will be held to highlight the Year of Food and Farming across the region.

The Staffordshire launch was originally going to be held at this weekend's Eccleshall Show, but it was agreed to wait until after the national launch.

Oliver Cartwright, NFU West Midlands regional public relations officer, said: "Despite having to wait until later in September we are delighted that everyone has been working so hard towards The Year of Food and Farming and that Lord Stafford will do the honours.

"Mouth watering, quality, local produce will be available at the launch and a host of other things are planned to let people know about countryside issues, healthy living and farming.

"We hope this event and others will be well supported and enjoyed by both young and old from across Staffordshire."

Children from Scotch Orchard Primary School, Lichfield, will take part on launch day, and Packington Free Range Pork has agreed to sponsor Year of Food and Farming events.

Staffordshire Young Farmers will host events including a harvest festival at Eccleshall Church on September 22 (8pm), and an English Winter Fair at the County Showground on November 17.