Learn to grow your produce

A NEW drive to help people grow their own food and eat their way to a healthier and more low-cost lifestyle is planned for the south-east.

Waterford Stanley, the cast iron cookers and stoves company, is organising a demonstration called Grow Cook Eat to encourage people to grow their own organic vegetables and cook their own food.

It will help raise funds for the South East Cancer Foundation appeal.

Experts will give tips and ideas on getting started on growing your own organics and they will also give a cookery demonstration with simple, healthy and low-cost recipes.

The seminar will feature author and founder of the Waterford Food Producer’s Network, Michael Kelly.

His book, Trading Places — From Rat Race to Hen Run hit the shelves in 2008 with huge success.

He will guide people through the ups and downs of setting up their own vegetable plot.

With interest in free-range and organic produce at unprecedented levels and the price of food on an upward spiral, growing and rearing food in your own garden is an increasingly cost-effective hobby.

The evening will also feature local chef and author of the renowned Waterford Stanley cookbook, Eunice Power of Powersfield House. Ms Power will demonstrate some quick, easy and affordable recipes focusing on home grown, fresh ingredients.

“I am delighted to be on the programme for this Healthy Eating event for 2009 and to be working alongside Michael, who not only writes about home-grown produce but actually produces it too,” Ms Power said.

“I work full-time myself and have a family so I know firsthand how difficult it can be to rustle up something healthy after a long day.

“I am looking forward to demonstrating how easy it can be to prepare a healthy, home cooked meal in a matter of minutes.”

The seminar takes place tomorrow at 7.30pm at the Tower Hotel, Waterford. Tickets (€10) are available from the hotel with all proceeds for the South East Cancer Foundation appeal.