To investigate agro-tourism opportunities to encourage small farm innovation in isolated areas

The purpose of my Churchill fellowship was to research local systems of sustainable food supply by investigating agritourism and gastronomic anthropology across Europe and the UK, evaluating value adding opportunities. My aim: to conceptualise a future model for sustainable and ethical rural development integrating tourism diversification and enhancing cultural identity. Highlights My investigation saw me observe micro localized farmers markets to international food supply networks: learn about integrated systems in the agri-food, manufacturing and processing industries: visit various scale farming operations offering diverse agritourism activities: learn the principles of Slow Food and the imperative of sustainable practices. I learnt about food heritage and the integrity in protecting traditional harvest and authentic production techniques. And, understand the significant impact of food culture on identity, authenticity and rural development opportunities.