In the directory's introduction, Anthony Worrall-Thompson, a regular on TV's Ready Steady Cook and other cookery programmes, explains: "Let's reintroduce into our lives the excitement of the British asparagus not to be eaten after the longest day, or the magical sweetness of an English strawberry."

What is the directory?

The directory lists over 100 producers and processors of food and drink in the Wiltshire and Swindon.

On your doorstep - local food for local people.

It provides details of what they produce and how it can be purchased, be it farm gate sales, direct delivery, Farmers' Markets, WI Markets, or shops. Background information about the business is also given.

The directory includes a map to show the location of the producers, so you can see where they come from.

Why it is good to eat local produce?

You can get back in touch with the seasons, eating produce when it is at its best, like the first asparagus in spring. The directory gives a list of what is in season throughout the year.

Fresh local food is often harvested within 24 hours of being sold and travels just down the road, rather than around the world to get to you.

You get to deal directly with the producer and can put any questions you may have straight to them.

Choice - with over 100 producers in the directory, there is lots to choose from. You will often find more unusual produce on offer, such as meat from rare breed farm animals or apple juice made from single varieties of apples.

From Wiltshire Harvest: customers at Salisbury's Farmers' Market.

Pleasure - Farmers' Markets are sociable affairs, with regular customers getting to know the producers. Pick your own schemes offer a classic summer activity and give you the chance to get up close to the plants and choose your produce. The delivery of an organic vegetable box turns cooking into a whole new adventure.
Supporting the local economy - when we buy locally, a higher proportion of the money stays with the producer, helping to support existing jobs and businesses and create new ones.

Where are the directories available?
They are in libraries across Swindon Borough and at the Tourist Information Centre.

Alternatively contact Jacqui Mansfield at Wiltshire Food Links on 01249 706530 and one can be sent through the post.