LOCALLY-produced food is sure to prove popular as West Oxfordshire’s Visitor Information Centres host events to celebrate English Tourism Week.

A Taste of West Oxfordshire event is being organised by VisitEngland to celebrate the country's diverse tourism sector. There are also guided tours of "The Gateway to the Cotswolds".

In Burford, shops will be running tasting sessions throughout the week, including Mrs Bumbles which is offering the chance to sample different products each day, from pickles to liqueurs; Cotswold Cheese Shop providing a selection of cheeses and Castle’s the Butcher with cooked sausages to try.

Discounted guided walks of the town will be taking place from Monday March 16 to Saturday March 21 starting outside the information centre in the high street at 10.15am, 12 noon and 2pm. Free guided tours of St John the Baptist Church will also be happening at various times throughout the week.

There will also be a special 10 per cent discount offer on a selection of gifts for sale at the information centre. All people need to do to receive the discount is quote Tourism2015 at the time of purchase.

Councillor Richard Langridge, Cabinet Member with responsibility for tourism and the VICs, said: “West Oxfordshire is a truly special place and tourism plays a vital role, worth more than an estimated £273m to the local economy.

“There are many different factors that make West Oxfordshire unique and the district’s food producers are among them, so we are delighted to be showcasing some of their foods and drinks as part of our local celebrations for English Tourism Week.

“Come along and sample some delicious produce, perhaps pick up a bargain, and find out how the VICs help to fly the flag for West Oxfordshire as a tourist destination.”

Burford Visitor Information Centre also opens on Sunday until 4pm.