TODAY we launch an important campaign that celebrates the very many producers of local food and drink who exist in North and East Yorkshire.

This region boasts a tremendous variety of independent food producers and small farmers who try to survive by being small in a big world.

Nowadays our food can come from anywhere in the world, whisked to us at great cost, both economic and environmental. A series of food scandals and scares has highlighted the way we eat today, and what some see as the potential dangers of modern food production.

Supermarkets have a tight stranglehold on what we eat and when. Of course, many people like shopping in supermarkets, which offer great convenience. Yet supermarkets have also changed the way we eat, ironing out the seasons in favour of an all-year-round, seasons-free eating spree.

Such methods do not always smile on the small local food producer, who persists in following what are probably the slower, more traditional methods.

What marks out so many of these producers is their passionate belief in what they do. It is not easy to have such faith in your produce and methods in the face of the demands imposed by the food giants and supermarkets, who have such an influence on what we eat and drink.

Yet these valiant producers keep at it - and their honest hard work is appreciated by their many customers, who know at heart that the tried and tested ways are best.

So our Eat Local campaign is a chance for readers to become involved in supporting regional food by nominating a favourite producer or a treasured retailer.

During the next six months we will be featuring as many local producers as we can, highlighting their stories.

Importantly, our campaign has the backing of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, which has been happy to become involved.

This uplifting campaign will conclude with a grand ceremony at the Great Yorkshire Show - the ultimate celebration of local food.

Updated: 10:53 Thursday, November 14, 2002