East Yorkshire Local Food & Rural Tourism Network held a launch for the latest edition of the ‘Enjoy Local Food and Drink Guide’, alongside a variety of talks, at their recent Spring Event at The Manor Rooms on The Drewton Estate, South Cave.
The Network includes a variety of businesses across the East Riding, benefits from a business-led steering group and is facilitated by East Riding of Yorkshire council’s rural policy and partnerships team. This year’s event and guide were funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The Network supports businesses, with exhibitors showcasing and offering samples of the wide variety of delicious food and drink available in the region, as well as the many tourist activities on offer. A buffet lunch featuring local produce was enjoyed by all.
The Network welcomed Mr. Jim Bloom, Deputy Lieutenant of the East Riding of Yorkshire, to give the opening remarks. The day featured presentations from Alpacas at the Field at Dunswell and The Milk Well at Willerby, as well as a tour of North Cave Wetlands Nature Reserve with Tony Martin, Nature Reserves Manager at Yorkshire Wildlife Trust.
Speakers from East Riding of Yorkshire council, Visit East Yorkshire, and NFU mutual also presented sessions, identifying support, resources and marketing opportunities available to members. Advice was given, and available, regarding business legalities, including succession planning and inheritance planning for local farms and businesses.
Representatives from leading food and hospitality businesses in the East Riding attended the event as well as members of staff from the council’s business support, countryside access and rural policy and partnerships team and Visit East Yorkshire.
Katie Taylor MBE, Chair of East Yorkshire Local Food and Rural Tourism Network, and Proprietor of Drewton’s Ltd, said: “This was a fantastic event, demonstrating the many opportunities for rural businesses and showcasing the vibrant produce and hospitality sector that our region has to offer.
“We are delighted to have welcomed over 400 members to the Network and encourage more businesses to take advantage of the benefits and support that our organisation can provide.”
Helen Wright, East Riding of Yorkshire council rural policy and partnerships manager said “It’s great to see the local food and rural tourism network go from strength to strength and promote local produce and destinations.
“I highly recommend that residents and visitors view our local food & drink guide and discover how they can support the fantastic local businesses in our region.”
To view the 2025/26 Enjoy Local Food & Drink Guide visit: https://eryc.link/localfoodanddrinksguide
The guides will be available from ERYC Tourist Information Centres, Customer Service Centres, leisure centres and libraries. They will also be available from participating businesses and food festivals and events attended by members.
For more information on how your business can join the EYLFN, contact: localfood@eastriding.gov.uk
