FOOD producers from Lancashire are to challenge the north-south divide when they present their produce in Westminster later this month.

They will be among more than 30 of the finest food producers in the North West to showcase their wares in the House of Commons from April 20 to 30.

Organised by regional food marketing agency, North West Fine Foods, the event aims to put the region's speciality food industry high on the national agenda by giving Southerners a chance to taste North West food.

Speciality food production has become a prosperous business in the region with a turnover in excess of £200million a year and an annual growth ate of five per cent.

North West Fine Foods says many traditional farmers in the region have had to diversify to be able to keep their heads above the water, and it is hoped the event will create sustainable markets for the products and attract UK and overseas visitors to the North West.

The region's leading chef, Nigel Haworth, has designed a special menu which will be served to more than 64,000 diners at five restaurants in the House of Commons.

Diners, who will include MPs and a group of top Southern chefs, hoteliers and retailers, will taste delicacies like Lancashire Hotpot, Lancashire Black Pudding, Goosnargh Chicken, Manchester Tart and a selection of the finest Lancashire and Cheshire cheeses.

Among producers taking part will be Fairfield Farm Shop from Blackburn, RS Ireland from Rossendale, Leegram Organic Dairy from Chipping, Johnson & Swarbrick from Goosnargh and Farmhouse Fare from Clitheroe.