I attended both the recent local Food Festivals in Melksham and Corsham and was again impressed by the turnout. Luckily there was no chilli eating competition at the Melksham one this year, so I did not need to defend my title.

As always it was fantastic to see a great array of Wiltshire and South West produce. Supporting local trade and producers is key to retaining our identity and local businesses. Festivals like these showcase just what our county is capable of. Wiltshire Chilli Farm for example has proved a local success story – in three years it has gone from strength to strength.

The highlight for me was helping at The Big Breakfast held at The Art House Cafe, Melksham. It was wonderful to see so many people pop in and support the Rotary to raise money for local charities. A big well done to all the volunteers who regularly work there, quietly beavering away to help others.

I challenge everyone to go and buy something local this week, which is made in Wiltshire. Let’s support our county, our industry, farmers and producers together.

Michelle Donelan, Prospective MP for Chippenham, Forest Gate, Chippenham.