A GROUP of food producers based in and around Cumbria's Eden Valley are the latest supporters of the CLA's Just Ask campaign, which aims to encourage people to "Just Ask" where the food they are buying comes from, whether shopping or eating out.

Everybody here is delighted when people ask us where the food comes from

Jeremy Jackson - farmer

The Crosby Ravensworth Food Alliance, which recently met with CLA's Deputy President William Worley, is committed to providing high quality foods and has already generated a huge amount of goodwill - and custom - through its quarterly markets at Crosby Ravensworth Village Hall which, even though in their infancy, look to become a growing success.

William Worley praised the Alliance for its initiative saying; "This is a wonderful example of what can be achieved through co-operation and a passionate belief in local produce. I have to congratulate all involved on their success in raising the profile of local produce and bringing to much needed boost to a very rural area. I am also delighted that the Alliance is so positive about supporting our own 'Just Ask' Campaign, which is going from strength to strength since its launch in Downing Street last year."

Local farmer Jeremy Jackson is one of the leading forces behind the Alliance and expressed strong support for the CLA's campaign, saying; "The concept of Just Ask is so simple it benefits everybody, including the consumer. Everybody here is delighted when people ask us where the food comes from because we know all the answers and are proud to tell them. Perhaps if more people asked the question when they eat out, or when they're out shopping, they would start to respect their food more, and see the benefits of buying local, traceable produce."