CULINARY COMPANIES URGED TO JOIN FOOD AND DRINK CELEBRATION

Food and drink businesses are being reminded to take the chance to showcase their produce at Derbyshire’s biggest culinary celebration.

Stall bookings are filling up fast for Derbyshire County Council’s annual Derbyshire Food and Drink Fair at Hardwick Hall on May 26 and 27.

With more than 10,000 people again expected to visit it offers local producers and suppliers the chance to promote their goods and highlight their businesses to local people and tourists.
Councillor Kevin Parkinson, Derbyshire County Council Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “Derbyshire is blessed with some superb producers of food and drink and this is the ideal opportunity for them to demonstrate their quality and boost business. “Interest in exhibiting at this year’s fair is again high and I’d urge businesses not to miss the chance to be part of what is always a fantastic event.”

Over 150 stalls are expected to showcase the best of Derbyshire produce as well as exotic foods from further afield.

Simon Rimmer, resident chef on BBC 2’s Something for the Weekend, will join leading local cooks to stage demonstrations in the cooking theatre.

There will be a range of entertainment for the whole family including live music, competitions and face painting.
The popular arts and crafts section is expected to host 50 local artists displaying their wares which will range from contemporary art to traditional craftworks.

Midlands Cooperative Society has already given its backing as a leading sponsor of the 2012 event and will sponsor the gate for a third successive year.

The main role of title sponsor is still available, together with other opportunities as contributing sponsors.
For a sponsorship pack and further information about the event contact tourism officer Stephanie Walsh on 01629 538464 or email Stephanie.walsh@derbyshire.gov.uk