New Forth Valley food and drink trail

Forth Valley Food and Drink network is launching a new trail to highlight the region’s local food and drink businesses, free outdoor attractions and picnic areas.

Carolyn McGill, coordinator of Forth Valley Food and Drink, said: “We’re encouraging locals to rediscover the fantastic array of local food and drink businesses on their doorstep – from farm shops and delis to local producers and eateries offering food to go. Follow the trail map for some suggestions of where to buy your al fresco feast and pop some local produce in your picnic basket. You’ll also find tips on where to picnic and free attractions you can visit along the way. So grab your picnic blanket and get out there!”

Nearly 50 local businesses are taking part in the trail.

The Scotland Loves Local Fund, which provided the trail grant, was administered by Scotland's Towns Partnership (STP) on behalf of the Scottish Government.

STP chief officer Phil Prentice said: "This is a fantastic project - a great way to showcase local produce and businesses. We are delighted to be able to support it. As Covid-19 restrictions relax and more local businesses are able to reopen, it's vital that we all think local first and support the shops, producers and attractions around us. This trail is a great way of doing exactly that, allowing locals to enjoy so much of what's on their doorstep while helping communities throughout the Forth Valley to recover and rebuild from the consequences of the pandemic."

The interactive trail map will be available to explore at www.forthvalleyfoodanddrink.org from Saturday 1 May.