The Flying Start Playgroup at Pennar is the first of its type in West Wales to become part of the Community Food Co-operative Programme, which is funded by the Welsh Government and run by The Rural Regeneration Unit.

A food co-op is a simple system through which people can access affordable, quality fresh fruit, vegetables and salad on a weekly basis at a community venue.

It has opened its doors for the first time this week to both the multi-agency staff at the centre and parents. Children from as young as two years are able to take part in packing of the fresh fruit and vegetables, on a weekly basis. With a huge first order of over 40 bags, it looks as though they will be busy!

Playgroup leader Jean Manning said: "Here at the Flying Start Playgroup, we are looking forward to becoming part of the Community Food Co-operative Programme in Wales.

"As a healthy eating playgroup, we will be incorporating this hands-on learning opportunity, which the food co-op provides for the children, into our daily routine."

The scheme also feeds into many local and government initiatives, with schools regularly using the co-ops as a tool towards Healthy Schools, Eco Schools and creating many learning opportunities. There is potential for co-ops to extend their produce to include other local foods such as meat and fish.

A bag of fruit or vegetables bought from a food co-op typically costs around £3 and with around 340 food co-ops throughout Wales, there's bound to be one near you.

To find your nearest food co-op, look on ruralregeneration.org.uk or join the Facebook page facebook.com/RRUFoodCooperatives.

Alternatively, contact your local Food Development Worker for West Wales, Abigail Morrison on 07785 224718 or email [email protected]">[email protected]