PRODUCERS of locally sourced foodstuffs are being invited to join a new not-for-profit company that is aiming to challenge the mainstream supermarkets by offering their customers locally developed foods.

Dean Forest Food Hub was set up earlier this year by local organisers James Scrivens and Lynne Davies who have brought together several local producers of food - both raw and cooked – and united them on one website: deanforestfoodhub.org, where customers can browse the listings of available foods, order online, and have them delivered to their home. There is also an incentive scheme whereby anyone who helps out the food hub, for example by picking up produce, sorting and packing for home delivery, or even posting fliers about the project, get their own orders at a discount.

James Scrivens told the Review: "The Forest Food Hub is about local people taking control of their own food systems. It is a network of producers and consumers working together. If customers are willing to actively help with the hub then they get their orders at 'farm gate' prices in return for their efforts.

"The idea is that 100 per cent of the money spent in the hub stays in the local community, giving producers a better deal – and creating local jobs."

The website contains a wide selection of food, from basics like flour and eggs, through to some intriguing items, such as Persian carrot jam, and Fairtrade coffee made from beans that are roasted in Cinderford.

Now that the enterprise is up and running, the organisers are keen to hear from local producers to add to their growing list of items available on their website.

James commented: "We're always looking for new producers who would like to sell their produce through Dean Forest Food Hub, and it couldn't be easier for new producers to join by signing up online.

"Almost all the food we sell is produced locally, though we have included a few essential items like oils and dry goods that come from further afield – so that we can be a genuine alternative to the supermarkets."

The group are to hold three public meetings to introduce shoppers to their idea, and where they are also hoping to meet up with potential suppliers. The meetings will be held in Cinderford, Coleford and Yorkley.