MARKET traders are supplying local produce to primary schools for weekly cooking classes in a bid to encourage healthy eating.

Stall holders at Burnley Market Hall will supply food to 190 pupils in seven primary schools across the borough for the weekly classes, run by the council’s Buffalo Project (Burnley Food and Fitness Aimed at Lowering Obesity).

The scheme was launched at St John’s Primary School in Padiham yesterday, and head teacher John Carroll is enthusiastic about what the community partnership means for pupils.

He said: “This partnership is an example of how a simple idea can bring a community together to make the difference it wants to see: I hope this encourages other towns across the North West to follow.

“Our pupils enjoy putting on their aprons, getting their hands dirty and cooking meals for parents – now they can do this while benefiting local businesses. Teaching children about eating well and knowing where food comes from is a priority for us.

“It’s a lesson I hope will stay with our pupils for the rest of their lives.”

Before the partnership, the Buffalo Project team bought food for their weekly cookery classes from local super-markets.

But project co-ordinator Laura Leverentz said this situation wasn’t ideal for children or local traders and goes against the ethos of the project.

She said: “Burnley is known for championing local busin-esses, this is something that we want children to think about.

“We already talk to them about where food comes from. Now we’re hoping to lead by example and show other towns a new way to teach children about food while supporting local traders.”

Duncan Allton, a trader who owns All Fruits Ltd in the market hall, said: “The community partnership means we’re receiving a weekly order for our produce.

“And this is helping children learn about the role local business plays in the wider community.

“I believe the community partnership is a long term investment in our town’s future.”

In addition to food, traders will also supply aprons, T-shirts and other equipment used by children in the cookery classes.