South West Initiatives

Short-term visas just the job to help struggling hoteliers

Bristol hoteliers are backing the possible introduction of a new short-term visa scheme which could be just to the job to help solve their long-running staff-shortage problems.

South Devon Food Hub launches to support region’s food and drink producers

Founded by farmers with a strong sustainability and regenerative commitment, the new South Devon Food Hub has just launched.

What’s cooking at Westbank?

Devon health and wellbeing charity seeks support from businesses and volunteers in the ‘final push’ for a new venture that will offer free workshops to teach people of all ages how to prepare nutritious affordable meals from scratch.

Beyond the Bean launches Sweetbird reusable cup for cold drinks

With all the focus on reusable cups for hot drinks, the company decided the time was right to work on eliminating single use plastic cups for cold drinks.

Cornwall Christmas Fair dates announced

The Cornwall Christmas Fair – the most vibrant fundraising event in the county’s festive calendar – will take place at the Eden Project on Thursday 23rd November with a Preview & Shopping Evening on Wednesday 22nd November.

The Burnt Chef Project launches fundraising bike challenge

Ride for Mental Health, the first dedicated cycle fundraiser from The Burnt Chef Project, will see a group of dedicated individuals from across the industry, pedal the 55 miles from London to Brighton on the 10th September.

When Aardman created the Thatchers ad – take a look behind the scenes

Thatchers Cider has released a behind-the-scenes look at the making of its new TV ad, Pint-Sized Perfection.

Plymouth-based Burts Chips renews successful RNLI partnership and increases fundraising target

On the back of a hugely successful 24-month strategic partnership, award-winning snack maker Burts is renewing its commitment to charity partner, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, by extending its initial contract to June 2024.

A unique new concept in culinary education and cultural sharing

Last week I was lucky enough to be invited to join Sue Hepburn at FoodSpeakEat, a unique new concept in culinary education that combines cooking, language and community.

Work begins on business plan to boost Somerset and Devon visitor economies

The Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership is working with Tomorrow’s Tourism on a groundbreaking piece of work to develop a business plan for Local Visitor Economy Partnerships in Somerset and Devon.

Countywide 30-mile feast challenge set for Somerset Food Trail

Following the incredible success of 2022’s Somerset Food Trail, which saw 8,500 members of the public visiting over 190 sustainable food producers and retailers, the 2023 Trail is now open, with a new overarching theme of The 30-mile Feast.

Bays Brewery launches charity brew in homage to historic local landmark

Bays Brewery in Paignton has teamed up with its friends at Torbay Coast & Countryside Trust(TCCT) to pay homage to Torbay’s most designated heritage site with its charity brew called ‘Beery Head’.

Entries open for prestigious chef and home cook contest

Entries are open for a prestigious competition which highlights the skills of the region’s best chefs, student chefs and home cooks.

Prestigious Michael Caines Academy celebrates successful 10 years at Exeter College

Designed for budding head chefs and those aspiring to a career in front of house, the Exeter College Michael Caines Academy gives students the opportunity to learn from one of the industry’s best.

Bristol charity launches returnable coffee cup scheme

Bristol environmental charity City to Sea has designed and launched a new returnable coffee cup to help fight pollution and carbon emissions.

Cotswold cocktail king is crowned

Cirencester has a new bar champion as Tierra and Mar’s Luis Paladines took the title at the annual Cirencester Cocktail Competition.

South West Initiatives

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