THOUSANDS TICKLED THEIR TASTEBUDS AT SUCCESSFUL FOOD FAIR

The eighth Derbyshire Food and Drink Fair has been hailed a success after more than 11,000 people visited the event over the weekend.

Foodies from up and down the county descended on Bolsover Castle for the popular fair, organised by Derbyshire County Council.

Celebrity chef Brian Turner and county council chair Councillor Joyce Sanders opened the fair and also launched the Derbyshire Food Festival, which runs across the county until Bank Holiday Monday.

Producers from across the county showed off their wares with many of them offering free samples to taste and local chefs gave demonstrations, tips and advice throughout the day.

Celebrity chef Brian Turner gave a number of demonstrations over the weekend and also did photograph signing sessions for the crowds that flocked to see him. People who have been tempted by the food and drink fair are now being encouraged to go along to a Derbyshire Food Festival event.

A booklet listing all the festival events is available from any Derbyshire Tourist Information Centre or people can ask for one by ringing Call Derbyshire on 08456 058 058. Dozens of local restaurants, cafes, shops and local food producers across the county are now running food festival events including taste-testing sessions, cookery demonstrations, tours, competitions and talks, as well as promoting locally-sourced menus.

Derbyshire County Council head of regeneration Mike Brittain said: “Every year the food and drink fair gets better and better and attracts a huge number of visitors from far and wide.

“The fair is a great way for local producers to showcase their products and attract new customers and the festival gives people the chance to go out and try something new.
“We’re very pleased the fair has yet again proved to be a huge success.”

Media enquiries only to Mandy Cann on 01629 585032 or e-mail
mandy.cann@derbyshire.gov.uk