It is pleasing to see that the Torridge Vale venture is now under way. Torridge Vale is a co--operative formed in 1997 by a group of North Devon farmers. In the current economic climate farmers are being encouraged to diversify and find new markets for their own produce. The co-operative has sought to protect and enhance the long term viability of its member's dairy enterprises by processing, and selling, their products locally.
From the point of view of a consumer, it is pleasing to be able to obtain locally produced dairy products. In an ideal world, perhaps, it would be desirable to obtain dairy products direct from the farm. Whilst this was commonplace until recently, various regulations make this unusual today.
The farms in the scheme have all obtained an RSPCA Freedom Food accreditation for animal welfare.
Hopefully Torridge Vale products will soon be available to us in the village. For more information, their phone number is 01805 622018.