HARVEST WORKERS’ CO-OP GETS PEOPLE IN THEIR WELLIES, ON FARMS, BACK TO BASICS.

This autumn has seen the start of something new – an exciting program of education and adventure for local residents in and around Okehampton.

The Harvest Workers’ Co-op is a newly established co-operative and social enterprise that operates Harvest Farm Shop - a small and organic farm shop in Red Lion Yard, Okehampton .

Its seven members have now launched a jam-packed schedule of educational events outside the shop, that focuses on the theme of food and farming. The public are invited to get back to basics - explore local farms, attend a sourdough bread workshop, learn how to ferment food, come along to watch food-related films, discuss farm-specific topics and create farm-inspired art installations… all in the next six months!

The social enterprise recently organised a visit to Taw River Dairy in Sampford Courtenay. The wellie-wearing visitors met the farm’s small diary herd, had a tour of the farm, tasted their delicious ice cream and milk and learnt about the milking process. Public transport was also available from Okehampton, funded by the Okehampton United Charities.

Throughout October and November there will be a farm photography exhibition within Harvest Farm Shop. Titled “Unlikely Heroes”, Walter Lewis will be introducing his book on Thursday 5^th October at 7pm at the Harvest Farm Shop, with photographs documenting his journey around local sustainable food production in England and Wales.

Alongside this, the upcoming film “In Our Hands”, will be shown at the Ockment Centre, Okehampton on Friday 20^th October at 7.30pm. It aims to bring light to the current difficulties within farming, and supports small-scale farmers. Tickets are available in the shop, or on the website.

To find out more about Harvest Workers’ Co-op and their educational program, visit www.harvestworkerscoop.org.uk.