FUTURE local food and farming is the title of a new unique meeting coming to Winchester.

Hampshire Fare has organised a special conference, to be held at Wesley Court at Sparsholt College on February 23, to showcase new ideas on working in the rural economy and local produce.

Key speakers include Tim Jackson, the college principal, who will discuss the future in agriculture for the younger generation, and owner of Rural Farm Shop Co and Bournemouth University researcher, Martyn Pring with his ideas on the importance of local food to the tourism industry.

Stacey Hedges, owner of Hampshire Cheeses, will talk about the founding and growth of the Tunworth brand and the value of LEADER grants.

Tracy Nash, commercial manager of Hampshire Fare, said: “As Hampshire Fare represents members from the local farming community, food and drink producers, and the hospitality industry, we are delighted to be involved in organising the first Future Local Food and Farming conference.

“We are establishing the conference agenda at a time when the rural business economy is undergoing great change, including increasing diversification within farming, while the growth of the internet has enabled farmers and producers to create brands, develop new business dynamics and establish new relationships. There is also evidence of a rise in interest in the rural economy from those with professional backgrounds.”

Fare chairman Mike Wright added: “These are interesting times, particularly as farmers and growers are under increasing pressure to produce more with less. This new rural business conference will examine these changes and challenges, inform delegates with business advice and insights, and promote best practice with experts drawn from the farming sector, rural business, tourism, research, academia and local and central government.”

The conference is free to attend but spaces are restricted. For more information contact Amanda Buckenham at amanda.buckenham@hampshirefare.co.uk or call 02380 733830.