THE Southern Co-operative has renewed its corporate partnership with county food group Hampshire Fare.

Hampshire Fare has been working with its partner since 2008, making it the longest-serving corporate partner.

Kate Hibbert, local sourcing manager for The Southern Co-operative, said: “As a regional retailer and as a co-operative we value and support our local communities and our local producers.

“Our involvement with Hampshire Fare enables us to access a range of suppliers, working with some producers who are already established and discovering others who are starting out.

She added: “I am on the board of Hampshire Fare and I find this level of engagement invaluable as it allows me to see the Hampshire food community from a different angle. The work Hampshire Fare undertakes is important and at The Southern Co-operative we are very keen to continue to support this well-renowned and highly thought of county food group.”

Tracy Nash, commercial manager with Hampshire Fare, said: “We are delighted The Southern Co-operative is continuing to support Hampshire Fare.”