Food and drink producers gathered at a caterer for a Shop Cotswolds networking event.

The event, at Poco Culina in Cheltenham on Wednesday, October 16, saw producers from the Cotswolds and Forest of Dean share best practices and learn from guest speakers.

Lindsey Holland, owner of Cleeve Hill Hotel, gave tips on pitching to the hospitality sector.

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Claire Dovey from Good Food Cheltenham spoke on sourcing quality ingredients and environmental considerations.

She said: "In today's crowded marketplace, consumers want to know where their food has come from, how far it has travelled, and its production methods."

"There are many ways to source GOOD ingredients but thinking outside the box can add to your product's story.

"Why not collaborate with your local urban community growing scheme like Project Grow in Cheltenham, plan next year's produce with your local CSA farmer or source from your community allotment scheme like Poco Culina has this year."

The session concluded with both Ms Holland and Ms Dovey, under the Cheltenham Food Board, highlighting the journey of an ingredient from start to end, and how producers can align ethical values with commercial plans.

Nicola Hardy, Shop Cotswolds co-founder, said: "It was great to see food and drink producers collaborating and sharing ideas.

"Many thanks to Lindsey and Claire for their insights, and to Andy at Poco Culina for hosting the event."