Island Life Magazine Ltd October/November 2014 | Page 93

FOOD Marque of quality for Medina T he Royal Isle of Wight Agricultural Society has acknowledged the work that Medina Foodservice put in to supporting the Island’s economy and local growers by granting them the privilege of displaying the ‘Wight Marque’, a sign of quality and provenance on the Isle of Wight. Following a detailed application and inspection of the premises and products, the Society’s approval means that Medina Foodservice are the only wholesaler member and, not only that, but they have been awarded Gold membership which means that they supply at least 10 Wight Marque approved products. Duncan Smith, Produce Manager at Medina Foodservice, said: “It’s excellent news to be recognised as a company that strives to support the use of local produce and the abundance of quality suppliers that the Island has to offer”. Starting as a small butcher’s shop in Ryde in 1947, Harry Ross’ grandson, Steve Ross, is now Managing Director of the Medina Foodservice which is now based out of their 30,000 sq ft premises on Riverway, Newport. Together with Caroline Ross, they have propelled the company into the well-known Island employer it is today. The company offers over 5,000 products including dairy and chilled, fresh fruit and vegetables, frozen food, desserts, ice cream, drinks, and cleaning products and equipment. Supplying many prestigious hotels, restaurants, public houses, fast food outlets, care homes, schools, prisons, outdoor caterers, ice cream parlours and cafes across the Island and south of England, they have become a well known name in the catering industry. A golden opportunity S ucculent Black Gold scotch topside beef will be on special offer throughout October and November at W.W. Woodford and Son Butchers, 28 High Street, Bembridge. Order early to avoid disappointment as there is limited availability! Owner Graham Hawkins points out: “If customers come along and buy the topside, they can put it in their freezer, and it will keep perfectly for Christmas. So rather than leave it until the last minute, buy now, and pick it up at a special price.” Woodford’s will also be stocking all their usual fine festive food including local free range turkeys from 9lb up to 26lb, which should be ordered well in advance to ensure the right size for your Christmas table. Venison, which can also be bought in advance and frozen, along with game, home-made sausages and pies, pigs in blankets and a whole variety of food to make your Christmas complete, is also available at the popular butcher’s shop in the heart of Bembridge. Call 01983 872717. www.visitilife.com 93