The range of great places to eat and drink in Wantage and Grove are showcased in a new series of short films that give residents and visitors an insight into the choices available locally. There are seven short films in the new series – two on eating out, focusing on restaurants, three on pubs and bars, and two on cafés. It’s a chance to hear from many of the people who own and run local food and drink venues, and get an idea of the range of food, drink and entertainment that’s available. You can also find the films by searching for the Wantage Town Team channel on YouTube, and they feature on the new-look community website www.wantage.com under ‘Videos’. The new films series follows an earlier “Shop Local” set that focused on Wantage’s independent town centre shops. The videos were created by Wantage resident Eloise Rees who has her own films venture, Oxford Digital Films. Mim Norvell, Wantage Market Town Co-ordinator, said: “As locals, there is sometimes a tendency to stick to what you know when eating out or not realise the range of places we have available. The films give viewers a feel for what they can expect from each café, restaurant or pub featured, and will help those visiting the town to make a choice that they will enjoy.” She added, “All the businesses were great fun to work with while making the films, and I’ve already started trying out places I wouldn’t have otherwise visited. We have some real gems!” Ahmed Elaboussi, owner of The Panini Shop on Wantage Market Place, was one of those to feature in the films. He said: “The filming was great and professional. I'm happy I took part in this film series to promote eating places in Wantage and Grove. Hopefully it will reach many people.” The two short films series add to an ongoing Wantage town centre and Grove local centres promotional campaign which has already seen publication of a ‘What’s In Store’ guide to shops, and a guide to places to eat, drink and stay. Wantage town team is part of a town vitality initiative funded by the Vale of White Horse District Council, and supported by Wantage Town Council, Grove Parish Council and Wantage & District Chamber of Commerce through the Wantage Joint Economic Forum (JEF). Cllr Matthew Barber, Leader of Vale of White Horse District Council, said: “Wantage has some great places to eat and drink, including some real hidden gems. These films help to highlight what’s on offer and put some local favourites in the spotlight.”