negg news: Newcastle Slow Food

A new 'Slow Food' initiative has started in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. It will promote fresh, regional produce - a goal many North East environmental groups are also pursuing.

From www.slowfood.com:

"A new Slow Food convivium has opened in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The first in the north east of England, it was inaugurated in the course of a ‘Gastronomic Night’ at the city’s Secco Ristorante Salentino.

"The founder members are Joseph and Cristina De Giorgi of The Gusto Group, which owns restaurants such as Paradiso, Popolo, Secco and Intermezzo, Pierre Lacroix of wine suppliers Pagendam Pratt, Peter and Doreen Forsyth of Newbarns Farm Shop in Warkworth, and associate Imogen Cloet, all people with a passion for the Slow Food Movement.

"Convivium leader Joseph De Giorgi commented, “Slow Food complements our philosophy at The Gusto Group to serve fresh, regional produce and enjoy a more laid-back approach to eating. We are planning to arrange quarterly events each year ranging from food and wine tastings to gourmet evenings and trips to regional suppliers, as well as promoting campaigns launched by the international association at a local level".

"The inauguration dinner featured the very best of regional produce from the likes of New Barns Farm of Warkworth, Acorn Dairy of Darlington and Taylor Seafoods of North Shields, whose representatives talked about key issues affecting the regional production of sustainable foods and the reinvention and diversification of traditional local family businesses.

"The evening was a great success with several new members signing up and £265 being raised by Gusto for the campaign for biodiversity. A larger event is planned for October to include several local restaurants and businesses.

"For further information membership benefits or to register ring Joseph De Giorgi on 0191 233 2238 or visit www.thegustogroup.com Mail Address Slowfood Newcastle 1 Market Lane Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 6QQ"