A Cornish brewery organized a special event for St Piran's Day, welcoming chef and sustainability advocate Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall. The gathering highlighted the region's food and drink producers in partnership with the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce. Discussions focused on local sourcing and environmental protection.
On March 5, 2026, St Austell Brewery in Cornwall held an event to mark St Piran's Day, inviting around 40 local producers, growers, businesses, charities, and suppliers. The occasion, organized with the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, aimed to celebrate the area's culinary heritage through networking and tastings of regional products.
Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, known for his work as a chef, broadcaster, and campaigner for sustainable practices, participated in a fireside chat. He shared insights on his commitment to sustainable food systems, the value of local ingredients, and key moments from his professional life. A follow-up question-and-answer session allowed attendees to engage directly, fostering connections among Cornish food professionals.
Fearnley-Whittingstall reflected on the day, stating: “It was brilliant to be in Cornwall today on St Piran’s Day with so many local growers, makers and suppliers. Great food is always rooted in great stories. When you know where your food comes from - who grew it, caught it or made it - it creates a much deeper connection to what’s on your plate. Cornwall has an incredible natural larder, and when we source locally and responsibly, we’re not just supporting producers, we’re protecting the landscapes and ecosystems that make this place so special – and what better day to pay homage. Whenever we talk about food, we should also be talking about nature - how we farm, fish and grow in ways that protect biodiversity and build a more resilient food system. There’s real optimism in that conversation, particularly as innovation and new thinking open up smarter, more regenerative ways of producing food for the future.”
Jak Yelland-Hill, the brewery's food procurement manager, emphasized the role of local suppliers: “Cornwall is home to some of the most talented producers and exceptional ingredients in the country, and we’re incredibly proud to have strong, long-lasting relationships with our suppliers across our heartland. A strong local supply chain is vital for quality, resilience and sustainability. Events like this help reinforce the importance of our suppliers and St Piran’s Day is a perfect moment to celebrate the Cornish producers who help us deliver quality across our pub menus and ensure our wholesale drinks range continues to reflect the very best of the region.”
John Brown, chief executive of the Cornwall Chamber, added: “Cornwall’s food and drink sector is built on people, place and pride - and telling those stories matters more than ever. When local businesses champion one another and share their successes, it raises the profile of the whole supply chain and strengthens our regional economy. Events like this create space for curiosity, collaboration and conversation about the future - from food security to regenerative farming and biodiversity. There is a real sense of momentum and optimism across the sector, and by continuing to learn from one another and tell our stories locally, we can drive positive, long-term change for Cornwall.”
The event wrapped up with a brunch featuring Cornish elements, including roasted plums with Cornish honey, rump steak, fried egg, and watercress on sourdough. Participating exhibitors were St Ewe, Buttermilk, Jolly’s, Westcountry, Cornish Larder, Colwith Farm Distillery, Cornish Distilling Co., and Cornish Sea Salt.
