Nearly 10,000 of the young people in the East Midlands have taken part with funding directly from the East Midlands Year of Food and Farming (EMYOFF). More than 500 organisations have offered their support along with local authorities which have helped schools participate in visits to farms and food producers, and in growing and cooking activities.

Tony Worth, patron of EMYOFF, said: “The success of the East Midlands Year of Food and Farming initiative is fantastic; our pledges represent 48 per cent of the national statistics. We have launched the project in every county now; the latest event took place at the Bakewell Agricultural Business Centre, where children were fascinated by the livestock market, and they also enjoyed cooking, planting seeds and milking a cow.

“It is important that this work continues. We have new children entering schools each year and it is important that they all get a chance to learn and participate in these activities every year.”

Since last September, the EMYOFF has been bringing together farmers, food producers and other organisations to educate children and teachers about food, farming and the countryside. Throughout the year, young people have undertaken activities, which have given them direct experience of seeing, growing and cooking to reconnect them with their food and how it is produced.

Farmers who wish to open their farms to school parties have the support of EMYOFF to advise them on best practice. EMYOFF want more schools and organisations to come on board, according to East Midlands co-ordinator, Sally Scantlebury. “There is still funding, advice and plenty of resources available for people wanting to get involved with the Year of Food and Farming,” she said. “Those wishing to register a school or organisation can do so by registering on www.yearoffoodandfarming.org.uk.”