PEOPLE living on one of the borough's poorest housing estates have got the chance to sample a wide range of exotic foods from across the globe after the launch of an innovative new fruit and veg delivery service.

Yams, okra and sweet potatoes are among the varieties now on offer on the Orchard Estate, in Woodford Green, when a van from the Community Food Enterprise (CFE)pays a visit.

The charity - which was founded in Newham - brought the scheme to Redbridge to help improve the diets of residents across the borough, and to give people easier access to foods from their countries of origin.

Eric Samuel set up the charity after seeing how limited the variety of fruit and veg was in his local shops.

He said: "We had people queuing down the road after the first couple of weeks.

"Food is an important part of people's heritage and identity and that shouldn't be denied them, especially the young.

"I was finding children who didn't know the names of all but the most obvious fruits and vegetables and who had little or no knowledge of produce from their parents' country of origin.

"I was surprised by the number of people who didn't eat fresh produce and began providing a fruit and vegetable stall for residents on my housing estate. I bought the produce direct from the wholesaler to keep costs down.

"It was hard work but if you feel passionate about something you just find a way and keep finding a way."

CFE now has five vans that distribute produce at several locations across the borough.

The charity has now launched a new service delivering to small convenience stores, to encourage them to diversify the produce they offer.

Mr Samuel said: "We offer a flexible service so that shops only buy what they need. Likewise, we'd be happy to hear from any schools or businesses that require a doorstep service."

The chairty also offers a free home service for the elderly, housebound and pregnant customers.

For more information visit: c-f-e.org.uk