BRITISH Food Fortnight has been launched as part of a day aimed at supporting rural food business.

The fortnight, which aims to raise consumer awareness of the need to buy local produce, was launched at Malton Brewery, at Suddaby's Crown Hotel, in Malton, on Friday.

Malton and neighbouring town Norton were chosen as the Yorkshire launch venue following consultation with Malton and Norton Town Management.

Malton has a high number of food retailers, pubs, cafes and restaurants selling local food products.

They will prepare menus to mark the fortnight.

The launch also linked in with North Yorkshire County Council's Yorkshire Pride event, which was held at Castle Howard on Friday.

As part of the fortnight, every school in Yorkshire will receive a pack to help teach young people about food.