cumbria's own foodie OBE...

Anyone who has had anything to do with the artisan food industry in Cumbria, will know her face well. Annette Gibbons became a household name in the region when she hosted her Home Grown tv series on Border (currently airing on Sky) and her accomplishments include writing books and articles, appearing on BBC Radio Cumbria. But despite all her media credentials Annette isn't really interested in promoting herself, what she truly cares about are the small farmers and food producers around the county. And indeed, when she was awarded the OBE, she said she really wants to accept it on behalf of everyone in the food community in Cumbria. "As a professional cook and through my demonstrations, Food Safaris and Dining Club I am proud to connect people to what's being grown locally. My business, Cumbria on a Plate shows off the best of our local food. I see my role as bringing these ingredients and produce to a wider audience both from within and without the county."

She also uses her culinary skills to raise money for numerous charities and she tirelessly ambulates the county doing food presentations, judging food competitions and generally being the best supporter a small local industry could ever wish for.

Content and photography supllied by artisan-food.com