The Board, made up of 10 key figures from the food world, will meet during to discuss current issues facing the Market and advise on the redevelopment of NCGM from a food perspective.

David Higgins, Prue Leith OBE, Sir Don Curry, Lord Haskins, Gail Mejia, Eric Samuel and Will Sibley, will join CGMA representatives Jan Lloyd, Lady Jane Garrett and Baroness Brenda Dean on the Board.

The informal group of respected representatives from all walks of the food industry – independent, private and public sector - will be chaired by Brenda Dean, who is the chair of CGMA. Over time this group may evolve as more members are invited to join.

This is in addition to the Local to London Project – a three year partnership with the South East Food Group to increase the volume of local produce being traded through New Covent Garden Market, and the Market's work as part of the Year of Food and Farming.

CGMA took the decision to establish FAB as the Market enters a key phase in its history. Alongside the plans to redevelop the Market to ensure its place in the 21st century and beyond, the food supply chain continues to change and London's food service sector is growing and evolving with NCGM playing an increasingly significant role.

Some 40% of all fruit and vegetables going into London's food service sector come through New Covent Garden Market. CGMA therefore see it as crucial that the Market is placed in the best possible position to facilitate all those involved in the food chain to ensure a smoother and more sustainable food supply into London.

Brenda Dean, Chairman of Food Advisory Board said: "The establishment of this Board can only benefit the Market and I am honoured to be Chairing what is a very influential and experienced panel of representatives. We hope that through our discussions and drawing on our wealth of experience throughout the food industry that we will be able to support this fantastic Market now and in the future and ensure that it is moving in the right direction."

Jan Lloyd, Chief Executive of Covent Garden Market Authority said: "We are only too aware that our plans for the redevelopment of the Market are not just about the buildings, it is also about the way in which the whole food chain connects, from producer through to end user. We believe at New Covent Garden Market we have a unique place in that chain and by establishing the Food Advisory Board we believe we can draw on its members' experience and expertise to ensure we are in an even better and stronger position."

The first meeting of the Board will take place shortly.