By Victoria Brenan

Last updated at 13:08, Saturday, 18 February 2012

Cumbrian food is going on tour as part of plans to showcase county producers and their produce.

Taste Cumbria is taking its festival on the road as part of a regional and national campaign by Cumbria Tourism.

Eleven of the county’s best-known food brands will feature at the North of England’s Northern Restaurant and Bar (NRB) show being held in Manchester on March 12 and 13.

The trade show will feature a Taste Cumbria pavilion, featuring brands including Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding Company, Hawkshead Brewery and the Hawkshead Relish Company.

Some of Cumbria’s top chefs will be on hand too to demonstrate Cumbrian-inspired menus.

Mary Houston, food tourism manager at Cumbria Tourism, said: “Tourism is one of the mainstays of Cumbria’s economy and food and drink is a thriving, dynamic segment of this sector.

“While we can’t bring our stunning, rural backdrop to the rest of the world, we can demonstrate the quality and integrity that runs rich in our area. We’re delighted to attend NRB 2012 with some of the county’s most iconic, distinctive food brands.’’

Taste Cumbria is a food and drink tourism development plan hosted by Cumbria Tourism, with the main focus on the Taste Cumbria festival in September each year, in Cockermouth.

Hawkshead Relish is one Cumbrian firm known for its championing of British produce.

Export manager Kate Nicholson said: “We are delighted to be exhibiting the Hawkshead Relish range of award-winning preserves. The event will highlight the diversity, ethos and culinary creativity that exists among the many acclaimed Cumbrian food and drink producers, which are available for the hospitality sector.’’

First published at 08:55, Saturday, 18 February 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk