THE county’s first ever Taste Lancashire Food and Drink conference took place in the Ribble Valley.

Food entrepreneurs, retail bosses, agricultural leaders, international trade experts from the hospitality industry came together for Taste Lancashire 2017, which was held at Holmes Mill, Clitheroe.

Throughout the day a range of expert panellists discussed the export opportunities for Lancashire food & drink and the county’s ambition to become a ‘must visit food destination’.

Michelin-starred Chef Nigel Haworth, chef patron of Northcote, recently named Hotel of the Year 2017 by Visit England and the AA, joined keynote speaker Jay Rayner on a panel exploring the challenges and opportunities facing the UK food and drink industry.

James Warburton, owner of James’ Places whose portfolio includes the £10million Holmes Mill development and Helen Colley, the entrepreneur behind Ribble Valley award-winning business Farmhouse Fare, shared their extensive experience, tips and advice on building, promoting and developing brands.

Paul Williams, the entrepreneurial chocolatier behind International Chocolate Awards winner Choc Amor, based at Cedar Farm in Mawdesley also presented a case study exploring the development of his business and product.

In addition to case studies, expert panels and debates there was a Taste Exchange producers market, showcasing some of Lancashire’s new and export-interested food businesses.

Ruth Connor, chief executive of Marketing Lancashire, said: “Lancashire food and drink is amongst the best in the world, one of the county’s key strengths and an important contributor to the local economy and Lancashire story.

“We all benefit from Lancashire’s increased profile on the world stage, whether that’s the spotlight it places on our quality producers and hospitality offer or our award-wining pubs, restaurants and hotels.

“This gives a huge boost to our annual 67 million visitors whose spend contributes over £3.8billion to the local economy, helping create jobs and grow businesses.

“We are incredibly proud of Lancashire’s food and drink businesses and our Taste Lancashire campaign.

“We aim to showcase the county and further establish Lancashire as a must visit destination for food lovers locally, nationally and internationally.”