Among its recent stops was Reaseheath College, where Animal Management lecturer and Course Manager Charlotte Dougal proudly welcomed the torch, highlighting the importance of inspiring the next generation of farmers, growers and land-based professionals. At the Nantwich Show, the torch was also proudly displayed with Philip and Joyce Percival, Joint Presidents of the Nantwich Agricultural Society, alongside an award-winning Red Holstein cow, celebrating the excellence of British livestock farming and the county's proud agricultural tradition.
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Harvest Torch on Tour Across Cheshire
ahead of National Harvest Service
As Love British Food celebrates 25 years of championing British food, its symbolic Harvest Torch is making a special journey across Cheshire, bringing communities together in celebration of British farming, food and harvest.
The Harvest Torch represents hope for British farming, celebrating resilient farms, thriving rural communities and the landscapes that sustain us. It is also a symbol of thanksgiving for our farmers, a remembrance of those who face hunger, and an urgent call to ensure the UK's abundant, nutritious food is more accessible to everyone.
Inspired by the tradition of the Olympic Torch Relay, the striking sculpture – handcrafted by Master Blacksmith, Andy Hall – travels through the host county prior to and during
British Food Fortnight, before arriving at the
National Harvest Service, where it comes to rest until the following year. This year's tour holds extra significance as Love British Food marks its 25th anniversary, with the torch visiting schools, colleges, farms and community organisations across Cheshire before reaching its final destination at The National Harvest Service at
St Mary's Church, Nantwich, on Sunday 11 October.
Revd Canon Anne Lawson, Chaplain to the Cheshire Agricultural Society, said:
"The Harvest Torch is a powerful reminder that harvest is about far more than food. It is an opportunity to give thanks for the dedication of our farmers, to remember those who do not have enough to eat, and to renew our commitment to caring for one another and the land that sustains us. We look forward to welcoming the torch to Nantwich Church as a symbol of hope and unity."
Alexia Robinson, Founder and CEO of Love British Food, said:
"For 25 years, Love British Food has celebrated the people, places and produce that make British food so special. The Harvest Torch captures that spirit perfectly. As it travels across Cheshire, it brings together communities in celebration of our farming heritage while reminding us that everyone should have access to good, locally produced food. We hope it inspires conversations, connections and action long after British Food Fortnight has ended."
The National Harvest Service at Nantwich Church marks the culmination of British Food Fortnight, which this year features a packed programme of activities, including farm visits for NHS caterers, school menu initiatives, competitions and community events celebrating the very best of British food production and encouraging greater access to good food for all.
25 years. One shared love of British food. One Harvest Torch.
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