RAMBLERS taking part in this year's Herefordshire Walking Festival are being encouraged to take in some of the county's finest food and drink.

Organisers of the 2003 event, which is taking place in June, are hoping to sign up local food producers to lead strolls stopping for home-made teas and at pubs.

Rachel Hicks, who runs Bromesberrow-based ice cream business Just Rachel, is one of the first to sign up.

She is planning to lead a walk starting and finishing at the site, where those who join her will be able to sample her wares.

"People can come back and have a tasting session, and buy some if they want," she said. "It would be a nice way to spend an evening."

Jackie Denman, who is helping organise the festival, appealed for more people to come forward with similar ideas for walks.

More information is available from her on 01531 635451.