FOOD has extraordinary power to connect people. We feed our families. We form social bonds with others over shared meals.

We give new life to traditions when we cook from old recipes.

These important memories are what a new project is hoping to record.

Crediton Living Library of Food Memories seeks to gather and share these memories.

Food historian Paul Cleave explained that the project has grown out of the 10th Crediton Food and Drink Festival.

He added: “The idea is to create a library, which will be an on-going project, of local stories about food and really is a first for Crediton.

“We want to collect people’s personal memories about food, whether they be about reviving the local cider heritage, sweet manufacturing, cheese production, local farming, picnics, harvest festivals and celebrations, people producing and enjoying locally-grown foods or new foods as people come to live in the community.

“As well as people’s stories, we would also like images people may have, which could include say a harvest festival or a story about food such as cafes, restaurants, school meals, food eaten at home or work.

“Harry West from the University of Exeter is leading the project. Crediton is ahead of the game in moving forward to produce a tangible record of food in the community, and we could also include some local and new recipes.”

Mr Cleave explained that everyone is invited to An Evening of Story Sharing about people’s food memories at Crediton Arts Centre from 7.30pm to 9.30pm on Saturday, November 3.

He added: “We welcome those who have a food story to share memories with us as part of the living library.

“You may have a memory of trading or eating particular foods, whether at work, on the farm, at home or on the high street.

“Your memories may be told by spoken word, photos, objects or samples of food.

“We welcome those wishing to learn more about the history and personal stories that people in the Crediton area associate with food in the broadest sense.

“Join us to look, listen and taste, as the volumes of our shared food heritage are opened for all to explore.”

Entry is free and all are welcome. No booking is required.

There will be a complimentary drink for guests as well as a paying bar.

For more information, please email: [email protected] .