Making the most of the west

Last updated 11:48, Thursday, 04 September 2008

A FOOD champion has been appointed to help producers in west Cumbria make the most of their wares.

Raising profile: Julia Weller hopes to boost producers

Julia Weller has been named project manager with Made in Cumbria, the organisation that supports the county’s food and craft manufacturers. She will lead the agency’s Network West project and conduct an audit of services currently available to businesses in Allerdale, Copeland and Furness.

Made in Cumbria wants to raise the profile of west Cumbrian producers and develop the creative and food sectors.

Julia said: “There are some excellent producers in the west of Cumbria that need more support with marketing their produce and increasing their distribution and sales.

“I am looking forward to building a network to help the local businesses and to strengthen what Made in Cumbria can do in the area.”

She has previously worked for the Cumbria Chamber of Commerce and Lancaster University where she ran events and workshops.

Made in Cumbria claims to have helped generate £1.9m in sales by enabling members to market their products more successfully. The agency is also heavily involved an application to win protected food name status for the Cumberland Sausage, which is currently being mulled over by the EU.

Businesses can find out more about Made in Cumbria by calling 01539 732736.