For many of us, food is simply part of the daily routine. For Jane Cottam, it has always been something deeper – a connection to land, community, culture and belonging. In her own words, she reflects on how those early lessons continue to shape her work in her catering business today.
“Growing up in Africa, food was never just something we ate; it was central to our culture and way of life. From an early age we were taught how food systems worked: how seeds were saved, how soil was cared for, how harvests were shared and how meals brought whole communities together. These were lessons taught regularly in classrooms and also lived out daily on our family farms, surrounded by neighbours, aunties, uncles and village elders. That sense of community spirit, of planting and harvesting together, cooking together and eating together that I experienced at home have stayed with me long after I left to live in the UK.
Years later, I had a conversation with Ellen Pearce at the Spring Market and while listening to her, I felt something familiar. She spoke about local growers here in North Lancashire, about seasonal markets, community events and the movement for rebuilding a sustainable local food system. I remember thinking that this was exactly what we did back home, but now it was happening here in Lancaster.
That conversation with Ellen opened a door for me.
Soon after, my team and I joined the FoodFutures seasonal markets with The SeaSalt Catering Co. as a regular trader, bringing flavours of Africa and the Caribbean to local tables. We introduced our authentic dishes, prepared with the same values we grew up with: freshness, togetherness and respect for the land.
Every meal we serve is crafted with thoughtfulness, carrying the tastes and traditions of our heritage to the people around us.
The response was overwhelming. Events such as Light Up Lancaster brought an energy and excitement we will never forget. Customers queued in the cold just to taste our freshly prepared meals, warming their hands and hearts with flavours many had never tried before. The joy on their faces, the conversations and the memories people shared with us gave us our own thrill. Each interaction reminded us that food is about more than taste; it is about connection, culture and community.
The feedback has been astonishing. We cannot thank our customers enough for the love, support and encouragement they continue to show us. Each event reminds us why we do this. Food tells stories, connects people and strengthens communities. It is these shared moments of laughter, warmth and discovery that fuel our passion and inspire us to keep going.
Through The SeaSalt Catering Co., we hope to continue creating spaces where people can come together, enjoy authentic flavours and feel a sense of belonging. Every meal tells a story, and every event builds memories that bring communities closer. Our mission is to share the warmth of our culture, the joy of our recipes and the simple power of a meal prepared with thoughtfulness.”
Jane Cottam is the founder of The SeaSalt Catering. She is one of the regular traders at Lancaster’s Seasonal Markets, and the next one is on Friday 13 March. The SeaSalt Catering Co. will next be joining the market with a stall for the Midsummer Market in June.
