THE search has begun to find the best food producers in the Ribble Valley.

Producers, retailers and restaurateurs in the area are being urged to join the Ribble Valley Food Trail which was launched yesterday.

The trail began at the T-junction signpost in Great Mitton and aims to make the borough one of the country's premier food destinations.

It will include a series of maps featuring the area's food landmarks for food enthusiasts to follow by foot or public transport.

Ribble Valley mayor Doreen Taylor, Lanc-ashire food writer Olivia Assheton and award-winning restaurateur Nigel Haworth (below) launched the search.

Me Haworth, chef patron of the Michelin-starred Northcote Manor in Langho, said: "The new food trail will help make quality local food available to visitors and Ribble Valley residents alike.

"It is an excellent idea, which I endorse whole- heartedly."

The trail is part of the council's tourism and regeneration initiative Rebecca Kay, tourism and arts officer for Ribble Valley Council, also attended the launch.

She said: "Food is now one of the nation's favourite pastimes and we are hoping enthusiastic foodies from across the country will flock to the Ribble Valley to see what we have to offer.

"We have some of the finest producers and restaurateurs in the country and this trail will help to put them and Ribble Valley on the tourist map."

An independent panel comprising food and tourism experts and writers from across the area will chose a selection from the entries to compile the Ribble Valley Food Trail. Participants must be located in Ribble Valley and show a commitment to local produce, high quality food stuffs and excellent customer service.