PRODUCERS in Monmouthshire are calling on shoppers to support their local markets and retailers this Christmas.

From turkey and all the trimmings to festive favourites like mince pies and mulled wine, the complete Christmas is just on the doorstep and there are a host of producers who sell locally through a network of farmers’ markets, farm shops, delis and also online.

Research shows that shopping locally has a positive impact on the local economy and consumers’ pockets, as well as having environmental benefits by reducing food miles and encouraging seasonality.

Wales is home to a thriving network of farmers’ markets, which are full of tasty local produce and flavour surprises.

Monmouthshire has a wide range of fantastic products from meat and vegetables to bread, cheese, beers, eggs and chocolates. ‘Made in Monmouthshire’ celebrates the creative talents of local makers and the skills of local producers.

More information is available at the website www.madeinmonmouthshire.com, which provides a guide to the wealth of tasty local produce.

As a renowned region for quality food and drink Monmouthshire is able to offer a range of tasty events in the run-up to Christmas from the acclaimed Abergavenny Christmas Food & Drink Fair on Sunday 13th December to more informal farmers’ markets in Chepstow on 12th and 19th December, Abergavenny on 17th December and Usk on 19th December. Monmouth also gets in on the act with their hosting of the evening MonFest Street Food Experience outside the Shire Hall on Friday 18th December.

Rural Development teams across South East Wales, who are funded through the LEADER element of the Welsh Government Rural Communities, are working together to promote the uptake of local produce and support the local economy.

There is a raft of support available under the European Union funded Rural Development Plan for Wales (RDP) which supports rural producers and communities across Wales.

Assisting the groups is Cywain – a project created to bring added value to primary produce within the agriculture sector.

“Local markets make a great change to the crowd-filled big stores and out of town retail parks. Shopping at a market is much less stressful, and a hugely enjoyable experience, says Cywain Development Manager, Rolant Tomos.

“You can’t beat the tastes, sights and smells of the food and drink on sale, and you know what you’re going to get is a really special quality artisan product.

“Importantly though, shoppers get the opportunity to interact with the producers, to ask questions and learn about the food and drink produced in their area.”

The Farmers Union of Wales is also supporting the campaign and promoting its members’ locally produced goods.

With more than 50 markets listed on the Farmers’ Markets in Wales website www.fmiw.co.uk there is something for everyone.

Councillor Bob Greenland, Monmouthshire’s cabinet member with responsibility for enterprise commented: “When you buy locally this Christmas, the money stays locally. It helps the farmer maintain their farms, stall holders develop their businesses and the producers to keep on producing their fantastic products.

“Try to buy one more thing local this Christmas and you will make a difference.”