C4 presenter to open Frome’s First Vegan Fair!

Frome’s first vegan fair, which will be held on 4th February at the Cheese and Grain, will offer everyone the opportunity to explore ‘plant based living.’ The new event will be hosted by Sustainable Frome and a team of local volunteers.

The event will be opened by well-known vegan and presenter of Channel 4’s ‘Coast vs Country’, Sara Damergi. Sara said, “I’m so excited to be opening Frome’s very first vegan fair! 2018 is set to be the biggest year yet for the vegan movement, so come and join us and see what all the fuss is about!”

From cheese to chocolate, the event offers a delicious day out to enjoy guilt-free food, drink, clothes and culture. There will also be talks, workshops, activities for children and nutritional advice and support.

In 2016, an independent report showed a rise in veganism of 360% over 10 years. This figure is rapidly increasing due to the wealth of information available, helping people to understand and sustain a healthy alternative diet and way of life.

The perceived health benefits of a vegan diet are thought to be driving the trend. Studies have found that vegans typically have lower levels of cholesterol and blood pressure, a lower body mass index, and reduced risk of death from heart disease and cancer. Environmental and welfare issues are also contributing to the swelling numbers turning away from food sourced from animals.

Co-organiser Anna Francis said, “There is a huge increase in the amount of people reducing the amount of meat and dairy they eat. Most animals that we eat or drink milk from have short painful lives and films like ‘Cowspiracy’ are raising awareness of the huge environmental impact of meat and dairy.

“Cattle for example, are responsible for 51% of global greenhouse gas emissions and 91% of rainforest deforestation.  More and more people are enjoying the benefits that a plant based diet entails.

“In Frome, there are already a wide range of shops, cafes and restaurants offering delicious plant-based food. We plan to launch a vegan guide to Frome at the fair and will also be giving out free recipes and holding an array of workshops to enable anyone to make delicious nutritious food.

“It’s almost ironic that a former cattle and cheese market should one day host a Vegan Fair, but times have changed and we are proud to be a part of that change. You don’t have to go fully vegan either, just reducing meat and dairy has a big impact in terms of reducing methane emissions and health impacts.”

Co-organiser Jo Harrington said, “Having lived a plant-based lifestyle, I have sometimes been challenged on my choice, but once people try the delicious vegan food that I cook, my friends quickly realise this isn’t a sacrifice, but rather a delicious, cruelty-free way to live your life. Do join us on Sunday 4th Feb, 9am-3pm, everyone is welcome.’

Tickets are £2 on the door (under 14s free when accompanied by a paying adult). For more information see www.facebook.com/frome veganfair – 01373 455420.