RORY CELEBRATES SUCCESS OF VISTA VEG COOPERATIVE

Local MP, Rory Stewart, met with Vista Veg, a co-operative of local
producers who grow high-quality vegetables just outside of Crosby
Ravensworth, to celebrate Cooperatives Fortnight 2014. Rory was led
around Vista Veg’s poly-tunnels and packing facilities by Lynne
Barnes, who runs the co-operative, and who explained the success of
their initiative to the Penrith and the Border MP, whilst they picked
the latest crop of vegetables.

Delivering 150 bags of vegetables every week to the surrounding
communities, the co-operative model allows Vista Veg to trade directly
with local families and businesses who care about where and how their
food is produced. There is increasing recognition that localising food
supply chains in this way can have significant economic, social and
environmental benefits.

Speaking afterwards, Rory said:

“This really is the most wonderful initiative, with local people
growing great quality vegetables for families and businesses in the
local area. It’s a model that not only dramatically reduces food
miles, but one that brings a community closer, re-establishing a
precious link between local people and our own local, farming
heritage.”