Not one, usually, to wave the flag for our Royal Family, I surprised myself yesterday by shouting “Go Charlie” at the radio on hearing Prince Charles’ speech at the BBC Food and Farming Awards. Known also as the “British Food Oscars”, these awards are designed to help us celebrate the culture of quality food in Britain and to encourage us to “keep our food system in good heart”, something very much valued by simple living and sustainable living enthusiasts.
The winners and finalists came from a wide range of food related enterprises and represented many fascinating, foodie specialities. What I found so uplifting about this programme was the initiative and imagination demonstrated by all of them in a very challenging industry and with stiff competition from giant corporations.
Do have a listen online. Prince Charles’ speech lasts for approx 4 minutes 30 seconds and starts about 2mins 20 seconds into the programme. In particular, listen out for the “important questions we should be asking ourselves” and “What we risk losing if we continue to treat food as an easy commodity rather than as a precious gift.”
Happy New Year!
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Thanks for posting the link to this. I’d never even heard of these awards but how interesting it all is.
I’m a staunch (some have said rabid…) anti-monarchist, but I have a huge amount of time for Prince Charles. In fact I think he would be a very good king, but the tragedy of it is that he would be under even more pressure than he is now not to get involved in matters such as this. I think he’s used honourably the voice that circumstance and privilege have given him, and has made a real difference.
Absolutely agree with you there Tess. I’ve noticed I respect him most when he dares to speak out on those issues I care about!;o)