A NEW recipe based local food delivery service launched in Penarth has been described as the "first of its kind" in Wales.

The Penarth Plate came about through a collaboration between local food producers and suppliers in the town.

It is hoped those who enjoy cooking using local fresh ingredients, but would like to off load the planning and shopping, will benefit from this service.

Currently featuring 10 different meal choices each delivery contains ingredients for a minimum of three meals with free delivery to home or work.

A launch event was held at Foxy’s Deli in Penarth on Thursday, April 21 where people sampled the meals which had been prepared from local produce by chef Neil Fox.

Lisa Corbett Bailey, of Old Cogan Hall Farm, has contributed her Toulouse sausages

She said: “ This is a fantastic scheme which has inspired the community to work together.

Old Cogan Hall Farm is a rare breeds farm in the heart of Penarth and we are delighted to be part of a venture that enables local people to eat local produce.

As a result of this we already have plans to run supper clubs and local dining events.”

Contributors to the scheme include Foxy's Deli, Windsor Fruit Stores, Old Cogan Hall Farm, David Lush Butchers and Umpa Lumpa Sweet Shop.

Cardiff Graphics and Penarth View offered their support in providing marketing materials for the idea.

Rolant Tomos is from Cywain which supports new products and markets for agriculture and fisheries.

He spoke about the passion for local food in Wales adding that an initiative that brought producers together would be mutually beneficial to both producers and the customers.

Jenny Yeo, founder of The Merchants of Penarth and The Merchants of Wales hopes to inspire similar schemes in towns across Wales.

She said: “It is clear that customers want to shop locally, to know the provenance of what they are eating and even the story behind the producers.

"I am looking to recruit food ambassadors in each region who are familiar with their area and are passionate about supporting the local high street and independent producers.”

"Communities have to work together to make this dream a reality.

"The enthusiasm amongst businesses in Penarth is an excellent example of this at work."