19 January 2007, 14:29 PM
  • As 1000s of romantics plan what to do for the most ‘loved up’ date in the diary, around 600 independent food shops will be taking part in Britain’s biggest tasting event.

During Purple Love Week, from 10th to 17th February, customers visiting delis, farm shops, butchers, bakers and candlestick makers, from The Shetlands to The Scillies, will be able to pick up their very own Little Purple Love Book and hopefully fall in love with their local independent.

“It seems to us there’s not much romance to be had in the big shops with all the trolleys, but there is a huge amount of love there for the taking in high streets and farm shops up and down the land,” explained Giles Henschel, creator of Purple Love Week and founder of Dorset-based regional food producer, Olives Et Al.
 
“Purple Love Week brings together 100s of great independents in one unique event and, although we obviously hope everyone will have great fun, the underlying message could not be more serious. It’s all about helping our small food shops thrive and survive because we’ll certainly miss them when they’re gone,” he added.
  
A dedicated website, www.purplelove.co.uk, flags up what’s happening, where and when – all supported by www.bigbarn.co.uk, Britain’s No.1 local food website, making it easy for everyone to find their nearest place to visit.   
 
For more information please contact Jane Read: jane@olivesetal.co.uk, tel: 01258 474300.