plate of healthy food
Image: hermes rivera under CC BY 2.0

Liz Earle searches for the ultimate local food hero: Love British Food competition

Love British Food, the team behind British Food Fortnight, have launched a nationwide search for the ultimate local food hero.

This honour will be awarded to an individual or group who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to making ‘good food available to all’, reflecting the core message of the celebration.

The rewarding competition
The competition is a yearly tradition aimed at identifying and celebrating the most creative and impactful event organised during the British Food Fortnight (16th September to 1st October 2023).

This event should not only be imaginative and innovative, but also inclusive, embodying the crucial elements of accessibility and community engagement in celebrating British food.

Attractive prizes on offer
The lucky winner will receive a two-night stay at a luxury food haven, providing a delightful experience for any food enthusiast.

Additionally, a commemorative plaque will be awarded, serving as a permanent recognition of their valuable contribution to the community.

Open invitation for participation
Participation is open to all, including individuals, community volunteers, schools, chefs, retailers, care homes, and hospitals.

Applications are also welcome from whole villages, towns, and cities, as well as from both small and large organisations conducting activities that are educational, inclusive, and leave a lasting positive impact on the community.

Inspirational ideas from previous years
Past participants have initiated a range of inspiring activities.

Schools have created vegetable gardens and mini farms, while community leaders have offered cooking classes for parents. Retailers have committed to providing good, healthy seasonal food for their communities, and markets have brought fresh, wholesome products directly to people’s doorsteps.

There have also been innovative initiatives aimed at the elderly and isolated members of society, as well as attempts to make good food accessible in hospitals, pubs, and restaurants.

How to take part
To enter, simply share your story of what you did during British Food Fortnight 2023 to make good food available to all.

Take plenty of photos and post them on your social media sites tagging in #BritishFoodFortnight.

Email [email protected] with a description of your activity and photos, no more than 500 words.

A word from the lead judge
Lead Judge, Liz Earle MBE (pictured below), a renowned wellbeing broadcaster and entrepreneur whose name is well known on the Isle of Wight, expressed her enthusiasm about the growth and focus of this year’s British Food Fortnight.

She emphasised the importance of access and affordability of good food, a matter she feels strongly about, especially considering her role on the new Social Justice Commission.

She stated,

“I am delighted to be the lead judge of the competition where we are looking for an individual or organisation that helps make ‘Good food available to all’ in their community.

“There are many people working hard to achieve this across the country and I am looking forward to hearing about all they do.”