RYEDALE MP Kevin Hollinrake got a taste of how the Co-op is promoting local food in his constituency.

Mr Hollinrake met representatives from the Great Yorkshire Brewery in Cropton and the Wold Top Brewery at Driffield on a visit to the retailer's Pickering store.

The pair are among 50 manufacturers taking part in the Co-op’s local supplier initiative to provide its Yorkshire stores with locally-produced items, including eggs, bakery, ice cream, sweets, chutneys, pies, sausages and beer.

Mr Hollinrake said: “It is great to hear how the Co-op are listening to their customers and responding in a way that benefits both consumers and local producers.

"We have so many delicious products made in Yorkshire especially in my constituency.

"It is always a pleasure to taste food and beverages made from locally-sourced ingredients.

"I am pleased to support this initiative in promoting our region’s businesses making good food for all to enjoy.”

The Co-op said it works closely with the suppliers to understand and unlock the logistical issues which in the past have hindered local firms.

Kate Jones, head of local sourcing, said: “Our customers have told us they want to buy local products at their Co-op store and so we have responded by teaming up with more than 50 new Yorkshire suppliers.

"Products made in the vicinity of our stores are prized by customers who want to support locally produced regional food which often helps to define a specific area such as Yorkshire.

“Our unique local sourcing initiative has been designed to break down the barriers which have previously made it difficult for small companies to supply large national organisations."