Thelma Hulbert Gallery (THG) offers new collection point for locally sourced food.

THG has teamed up with In My Back Yard to provide a new food collection hub in Honiton.

In My Back Yard (IMBY) is East Devon’s local, ethical online farmer's market. They are a network of over 30 independent producers and suppliers specialising in high welfare, organic, biodynamic, and agro-ecological produce. 

THG has long supported local makers through their craft exhibitions and gallery shop and is pleased to support local producers with this new collection point. New weekly collections are now available on Fridays from 3-5pm at the gallery,  located on Dowell St, Honiton opposite the Lace Walk car parks. 

IMBY are working with Devon County Council to offer up to 3 FREE fruit and veg boxes in March to Devon residents who are recipients of the government's Healthy Start scheme. Healthy Start provides financial support to put towards the cost of fruit and veg, pulses, cows' milk, and formula – to find out if you are eligible and apply online for the scheme, visit Healthy Start website. The deadline to apply for vouchers is 21 March. For the first 3 boxes, IMBY are offering a pilot scheme where they select the produce in the boxes and include recipe cards.

As well as local food, IMBY supplies other locally sourced products including charcoal from Wild East Devon, created from waste materials after winter conservation work. The “Nature Reserve Charcoal” is  produced on their nature reserves using a unique mobile charcoal kiln designed and manufactured right here in Devon.  It's a favourite for barbecuing, replacing unsustainable imported charcoal commonly found in mainstream retailers. The fine material can also be used as biochar – a transformative addition to soil improving plant vigour. At a time when going peat-free in our gardens is a non-negotiable option, biochar improves soil condition, microbial activity and introduces important minerals.

The IMBY online shop is open for weekly orders every Saturday from 9am and closes on Wednesdays at 9pm, for Friday home delivery or collections from towns across East Devon.

Helen Carey from IMBY commented: "We would like to thank THG for all their support and enthusiasm with the launch of the IMBY collection point at the gallery on Friday. It felt like a really good afternoon with the sun shining, the bunting up and the apple juice flowing....  Customers were all really happy with the new venue."

Councillor Marianne Rixson, East Devon District Council’s Portfolio Holder Climate Action and Emergencies said: "East Devon District Council encourages all residents to shop locally and support small businesses and producers. This initiative will help residents shop sustainably, which is good for our environment and the local economy."