Get traditional with a turnip this year

A PRIZE is on offer for the creator of the best turnip lantern in the run-up to Hallowe'en.

The Shandon Local Food Group is trying to promote the use of native produce, and says the turnip lantern is a more traditional option than the pumpkin, which has American origins.

It is offering a prize to children who create turnip lanterns, with a special award for the best.

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Chairman Gavin Corbett said: "A generation ago, when I was going door-to-door at Hallowe'en, everyone had turnip lanterns.

"Now, it seems the US's tradition of using pumpkin has all but taken over.

"It is almost impossible to get large-enough turnips in the shops, but pumpkins are everywhere for sale."

He said the group wanted to encourage children and parents to think about using native produce as much as possible: "This is all a bit of fun, but we also thought it would be nice if the turnip lanterns could make a comeback.

"Food accounts for at least 20 per cent of our carbon emissions so if we are serious about reducing emissions by 80 per cent by 2050 we need to look at what is on the table."

To take part, contact the group through its website at shandonfood.wordpress.com