May 2008

Take the meat-free challenge with actor Scott Maslen

Actor, Scott Maslen, is fronting a new campaign to encourage people to go veggie during National Vegetarian Week (NVW) 19-25 May 2008. To support the meat-free challenge, The Vegetarian Society has produced its first recipe booklet aimed at new veggies, Meat-free made easy, which includes an introduction from the actor. Launched during the Week, which is sponsored by Cauldron Foods, Meat-free made easy is a pocket guide to cooking simple, tasty meals on a budget.

Scott says, “I have a passion for vegetarian cuisine – it’s healthy and it tastes great. Making delicious veggie food isn’t difficult, but it helps if you know where to begin. I wish I’d had this recipe book when I became vegetarian. It will give you the head start you need to enjoy the benefits of a meat-free diet. So get cooking and surprise yourself!”

The booklet has suggested meal ideas for the week, basic everyday recipes, and hot and cold sandwich fillings. Recipes include - Hearty sausage hotpot, Mexi baked tortilla, Simple veg soup, Quick korma and Super spag bol. It’s available free from the charity by calling 0161 925 2000 or the recipes are online now at www.vegsoc.org/nvw

Notes for editors

· For more details contact Su/Caroline in The Vegetarian Society Press Office on 0161 925 2012 or su@vegsoc.org , mobile 07973 108 165/7, visit www.vegsoc.org/press

· Scott Maslen currently appears as Jack Branning on the BBC flagship show EastEnders, and previously played Phil Hunter in the Bill.

· Recipes and images available please call the press office.