Shop local, shop ethical, shop Stroudco - say a group who run an online shop for those who want to buy fresh, local produce.

The Stroudco Food Hub is a not-for-profit organisation bringing together an ever-expanding range of locally produced artisan food, drinks which can all be purchased from their easy to use website.

Stroudco shopper Carole Matthews explained: “Every week I put in my on-line order, picking from over 40 producers and suppliers. I love it because unlike some other box schemes, there is no obligation to order very week – it’s up to me.

"They work with the Farmers Market, so I can pick many of the products from the market stalls online too."

Members can shop for £2 a month or non-members can pay a £1 fee per order. Orders can be delivered, or picked up from the centre of Stroud.

What's more Stroudco has recently joined up with Loose, Stroud’s first plastic free shop: “I love being able to order all my muesli, pasta, rice and coffee beans online from Loose, because I don’t always have time to get to the Loose shop in Gloucester Street “ adds Stroudco shopper Liz Whiteside, “ and it all arrives in strong paper bags.”

Stroudco shoppers can also order a range of ethical groceries sourced from Essentials Trading, a Bristol based food co-op, including fairtrade tea and coffee and tinned goods.

Additionally, those with green fingers who grow fruit and veg in their back gardens and allotments, can sell surplus produce on the food hub to reduce food waste.

For more information and to start shopping visit stroudco.org.uk