HUNDREDS of New Forest children have been learning about food, farming and healthy eating.

Hampshire Fare, the county food group, has been telling pupils in 13 schools across the Forest about locally produced food - and how to enjoy it without getting fat.

Youngsters have enjoyed samples of foods including vegetables, fruit, yoghurts and cheese.

Hampshire Fare marketing officer Tim Brock said: "We believe it is very important that school children should be given the opportunity to learn where and how food is produced.

"It will hopefully have long-

lasting benefits to both their health and the health of their surroundings in terms of countryside preservation and a sustainable rural economy."

A display of the work carried out will be on show at the New Forest Show from July 27 to 29.