On Wednesday, 13th March, a historic event took place as local producers made their way to Westminster to showcase a ‘Canny Taste of County Durham’ to Members of Parliament.
This extraordinary exhibition was the first of its kind to highlight Durham’s incredible food and drink offerings in Parliament, casting a national spotlight on the heritage and businesses of our region.
The event, hosted by County Durham’s own MPs, Richard Holden, Paul Howell, and Dehenna Davison, united MPs, staffers, and peers like Baroness Armstrong of Hill Top. It was a unique opportunity to delve into the diverse flavours that County Durham has to offer.
The event showcased twelve County Durham businesses: Loopy Lisa’s Fudge, South Durham Honey, Consett Ale Works, V Bites, The Tea Enthusiasts, Wiga Wagaa, Screaming Chimp Chilli Sauce, Knitsley Farm Shop, Lanchester Wines, Weardale Cheese, South Causey Inn and Lovesome Oil, each exhibiting their unique contributions to Durham’s food scene.
Whether sipping local beer and wines or tasting delicious cheeses and fudges, attendees got a real taste of the best of what County Durham has to offer. County Durham exhibitors were thrilled to represent County Durham culture and culinary traditions on the national stage to help drive focus on the North East.
“I was so pleased to host County Durham producers in Parliament to shine a light on what County Durham has to offer the nation.
“Whether it was Wiga Wagaa spices, Lanchester Wines, Consett Ale Works, The Tea Enthusiasts, Knitsley Farm Shop or Weardale Cheese, I am pleased that many MPs and Lords got to taste of what they can get when they visit and support the North East”.
Richard Holden MP
“County Durham has some of the best produce in the country, so it was great to see local businesses front and centre in Westminster to show off what we have to offer.
“Local independent businesses such as South Durham Honey and Loopy Lisa’s Fudge are the backbone of our economy and I will always support them to the hilt”.
Commenting, Dehenna Davison MP
“This is a big moment for County Durham, it is the first time our region’s amazing food has ever been shown off here in Parliament, and it’s something we should all be proud of.
“Biggest shout out to Fran at Lovesome Oil, but all the different local businesses were brilliant”.
Paul Howell MP
“We are a sustainable, family-run business supplying great quality wine both locally and nationally. We had a great time showcasing the best of the North East at the Canny Taste event in Parliament!”
Commenting, Lanchester Wines
“It was an honour to be asked to fly the flag for County Durham, showcasing what quality food we produce in our area at the heart of Westminster.”
Lovesome Oil
