Sussex goodies are on the menu this Christmas.

Gammon, honey, apple juice, wine and cheese are being packed into festive hampers and sent across the country.

Chris and Michele Birch, who own the Bon Appetit Deli in Storrington, hit on the idea for a Sussex Hamper last year and because of its success are doing it again.

The couple, who also live in Storrington, gave up careers in the travel industry to start the business, which also has a branch in Steyning and an outside catering arm.

Michele said: "For a long time, we had wanted to have our own business.

It has been hard work making it a success but it has been worth it.

"We spend a lot of time sourcing the food for the hamper. It has to be the best quality because most of them are sent to people outside the county and we want them to have a good impression of our local produce."

The hamper includes Sussex tea from Uckfield -

Kenya blend, Gran Stead's ginger wine from Shoreham, Valley mayonnaise from Chichester, Jethro's lime, chilli and oregano marinade from Burgess Hill, honey from Steyning, cheese from Uckfield, apple juice from Etchingham and gammon from Brighton.

Michele said: "Sussex deserves a good reputation for its food. The quality is at the top of the scale and our customers are keen to let their relatives and friends know we have some of the best food in our own county."

www.thebonappetitdeli.co.uk
Regional food group A
Taste of the South-East has launched a club to stimulate consumers' taste buds.

Called The Tasties, the club offers regular information on new products, where to buy local food and drink, special discounts and competitions.

Spokeswoman Sue Scott said: "During the summer, we ran a successful roadshow taking our popular Tastie Chief to events across the region.

The response was overwhelming with tens of thousands of people asking where they could find out more. The Tasties club is the answer."

For £5 a year, members receive a newsletter with ideas and information on products and outlets.

Contact A Taste of the South-East on 01798 874250.