Sir

With reference to 'Food from Britain's funding slashed' (Food Manufacture, January, p5), the regional food and drink sector is recognised as a growing area within the industry.

Development of regional and national markets should remain a priority to ensure those businesses have the potential to grow into exporters of the future.

The latest reports from Mintel and IGD forecast the regional food market in the next five years will reach a value of £5.7bn. That outperforms the broader grocery market. With provenance, rather than pure premium being a key contributor, it is essential the work done by the eight English Regional Food Groups (RFGs) continues and is built upon.

To that end, the RFGs formed a national alliance in 2007 to lobby government and to deliver national programmes at a regional level. All the RFGs have strong links into their regional development agencies.

There is continued growth in demand for food and drink with provenance and opportunities through public procurement, due to increased consumer awareness of green, health and animal welfare issues. This all highlights the importance of the work undertaken by the RFGs.

Karen Davies

Chief executive

Heart of England Fine Foods