The Importance of Shopping Local During Lockdown

Councillor Gary Malcolm finds all he needs and more from Chiswick retailers

Cllr Gary Malcolm on Turnham Green Terrace

When the Coronavirus first reared its head, empty aisles were seen everywhere whichever supermarket you entered. So many items of basic foods were not present to all but a few lucky people who appeared to think it was acceptable to stockpile.

Even today many local supermarkets have run out of flour and yeast. Perhaps the Great British Bake Off repeats on TV have encouraged us to bake more bread and cakes!

To me, the idea of planning a whole week’s meal schedule and shopping in one go is not ideal due to some items not being present when you are in the shops, always trying to avoid coming into contact with too many people. I have never been a fan of supermarket deliveries but even if I wanted to, the schedules always appeared to be full for weeks to come!

However, I try to look at these times to buy or discover food and supplies from local shops that I either did not know existed or did not visit them as often as I should have done.

My partner and I were inspired after watching a Nigella Lawson programme to cook a lamb and bulgur wheat salad meal, but looked for the low GI bulgur wheat to no avail in various supermarkets. Step up The Source Bulk Foods on Turnham Green Terrace who stock them and other lovely organic pulses we wanted! As I am a type 1 diabetic, this recipe will help slow down the release carbohydrates, and reduce blood sugar levels after meal times compared to couscous.

My girlfriend and I celebrated our anniversary in lockdown in style with Macken Brothers butchers. Their free home delivery meant we got the meat we were looking for – and what a celebration it was with their lovely prime rib and rabbit legs! It always feels a treat when they recognise you in their shop and provide some cooking tips.

Sometimes you walk past a shop and think “why not?”. This happened a few weeks ago where I bought probably the best scotch egg I have eaten, from Bayley & Sage. Expensive - but a treat which is sometimes needed in these uncertain times.

Coronavirus has taken a toll on the beloved high street across Chiswick and the country with some who might not open when the lockdown is relaxed.

If we do not want our high streets to be decimated when the lockdown is eased, then we need to vote with our feet, and spend money locally to protect local jobs and businesses.

Councillor Gary Malcolm
Southfield ward Councillor

May 30, 2020