TWIG can be found at the bottom of Hamlet Court Rd – a lovely double bayed shop with lots of character. TWIG – The only Way Is Green – started off as a funded project to raise awareness of energy efficiency and continues to be led by Trust Links. The project has now expanded and seeks to reduce not only energy use but food miles in promoting Essex food.
Cathy MacBride who now co-ordinates the shop is a self-confessed foodie and is passionate about using local ingredients. Although not an Essex girl – having only been in the County a mere 26 years – she believes that every County should be proud of the food they produce and Essex has plenty to shout about.
The shop sells a mix of products such as flour and apple juice from Chelmsford, jam and pickles from Heybridge, chutney from Leigh and of course Essex honey. Also available are fresh ingredients from Growing Together – the community garden of Trust Links. This month continues to see rhubarb and lettuces and the introduction of broad beans and more herbs.
TWIG is much more than just a shop though; many of the visitors come for advice, exchange of ideas and sometimes just a chat. The hub is used to collect information on other food producers who may want to sell their produce, to examine potential initiatives such a community bakery, community business kitchen. Evening get togethers are on the cards and lots of summer activities are being planned.
It`s not just food that comes under the ‘Made in Essex’ banner, the shop is also promoting local products such as soaps, natural soy candles and jewellery. Books too are available from local authors and the shop is a member of Book Crossing where books can be picked up free, recorded on a website and then circulated around Southend, around Essex and eventually around the world.
TWIG – made in Essex – celebrating everything Made in Essex – celebrating Green Essex
TWIG 49-51 Hamlet Court Road, open Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat. 9.30-4.30
