Schools in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and Northamptonshire are looking to source more local fresh produce. "We will talk to any British producer but our preference is to source as much (as possible) within those counties and from Lincolnshire," said project consultant Robert Danks, of Food Chain Solutions, Hereford.

The project is part of the public sector food procurement initiative that Government departments adopted in 2003, agreeing to promote healthy food and improve the sustainability and efficiency of food procurement, catering services and supply.

The total annual budget for school meals in the East Midlands is £11m, of which fruit and vegetables will account for a significant proportion, said Danks.

Growers can find out more at a meeting on Friday 28 November at Notts County Football Club.

- To register, email robert@food-chain-solutions.co.uk