EXMOOR National Park Authority and Visit Exmoor are behind a campaign encouraging people to think before they shop, and to spend their holiday cash on locally produced foods and gifts.

Dan James, Rural Enterprise Manager at Exmoor National Park Authority, said: “Even before the pandemic, visitors to Exmoor were spending £42 million on food, drink and shopping every year.

“Directing more of these purchases towards local produce could be of huge benefit to our rural economy."

Cally Elston, Marketing Manager for Visit Exmoor, said: "This campaign supports our incredible local producers and retailers across greater Exmoor. We want to remind visitors coming to the area this summer of the wonderful products available to them, the merits of shopping local, and how this supports our rural economy.

"Not only can visitors enjoy local produce whilst they are staying here in Exmoor, but they can also stock up and take a taste of Exmoor home with them, as gifts for friends and family or to enjoy themselves as a reminder of their time here!"

Katrina Munro, Sustainable Economy Officer at Exmoor National Park Authority, said: “A series of film clips and social media posts encourage visitors to Buy Local and support our producers.

“We’ve supplied posters and display materials to local shops and pubs, to make Exmoor produce easier to identify. You can get a real taste of Exmoor by choosing our grass-fed lamb or beef, or how about our locally produced ice cream, tea or gin?

“As well as exploring local independent shops, visitors can find a range of Exmoor gift items on sale in our National Park Centres.

“This summer campaign is part of a larger Eat Exmoor project, which recognises the value of buying local to the rural economy, the reduction in food miles and carbon footprint, as well as benefits to the landscape and animal welfare,” added Katrina.

Victoria Eveleigh, whose family has run West Ilkerton Farm near Lynton for three generations, is featured in one of the campaign’s short films. “Animal welfare, working with nature and producing good food are our top priorities, and that’s why we keep local breeds that are suited to the area,” she said.

“If you buy beef and lamb from farms on Exmoor you will help to sustain the traditional economy and landscape of the National Park. Also, you really will Eat Exmoor.”

For more information visit: www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/eat-exmoor .