Thank you Quyen. And why not use it as a fund raiser too? Something directly benefitting the local community would encourage people to get involved.

As a kid, I remember getting recipes from my mom for one of these cookbook fundraisers. Perhaps this could benefit from a school project as well? As in, getting kids to work with their parents in creating a local food meal/recipe?

Yes, that's what I thought, it would make a good school project. And how about if the school kitchens were persuaded to cook for a week with only local produce to try out the recipes devised by the children and their families? After the week's tasting all the children could vote on their favourite recipes!

I like the voting aspect for the kids - they could be the drivers behind the family cooking! Great collaboration!

Thanks for the suggestion Louise, that highlights the diverse range of people who could get involved.

Thanks for your input Johan. You're right, books are static and, given the fact that the recipes would be based on local producers, the information could change frequently. That's why I suggested an ebook too. I think that an electronic version of the book, whether it is a website or an online book which you can browse is essential. And I really like your idea that it should be interactive.

I do think however, that a small print run would also be of benefit. Now with digital printing, printing prices are going down and there are "print on demand" services which means that only copies which have been ordered are printed (no unnecessary waste). It would be good to have a few copies for libraries, schools, for those who won the competition. There's something about "being in print" which makes people enthusiastic and may motivate them to enter the competition. Even though the advantages of an online version are evident, I think people still like to hold something in their hands that they have had a part in creating.

But why not do both? One competition per year with one printed edition, with the interactive website too, which would be a growing resource. On the website there could be a section with interviews with local farmers, a directory of producers, the possibilities are endless!

Oh and I meant to say, I didn't mean that there would be 4 editions throughout the year, just one book with 4 chapters (one for each season). Maybe I need to edit my concept and clarify that...

Yeah, that's a great idea Vincent. Getting people involved through voting is a cool way to reach even more people! People could then be encouraged to try the recipes and the local products before voting.

Thanks Sarah. I like your idea to reach out to new home owners. I would love to receive a book like that on moving into a new area! It would make me feel a connection with the local community and inspire me to go and try out the products.