Foodies get a taste for new festival (From Bromsgrove Advertiser)
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Foodies get a taste for new festival
3:19pm Monday 25th June 2012 in News
Alan Coxon shows off one of his creations. Pictures: airstonphotographic@blueyonder.co.uk
FOOD fans from across the Midlands flocked to Chaddesley Corbett at the weekend as the inaugural Taste of Worcestershire Food Festival proved to be a roaring success.
Organised by Kidderminster Shuttle owners Newsquest in conjunction with Brockencote Hall, Waitrose and Classic Marquees of Malvern, the two-day event brought together more than 40 producers, growers and retailers in a real celebration of fine food and drink from Worcestershire and beyond.
Some 1,500 visitors were able to sample and purchase fantastic local produce including speciality sausages, chutneys and pickles, handmade fudge, real ale, wine and cider, all displayed in a marquee in Brockencote’s idyllic grounds.
Hourly cookery demonstrations took place on both days, with visitors crowding in to watch a trio of chefs from the Eden Hotel Group, TV chef and historic food creator Alan Coxon, and healthy Indian food by Tara Dhani.
The crowds were also kept entertained by live music from Abstrax Sax, Pop Art and Deborah Rose, while outdoor events included clay pigeon shooting, archery, and children’s activities.
Alan Coxon, who was selling his range of vinegars based on ancient recipes as well as giving cookery demonstrations, was delighted with the event’s success. He said: We had a fantastic day on Saturday, but Sunday really exceeded our expectations – in terms of sales, it was one of our most successful days in four years of trading.
“The audience for the demonstrations were wonderful, really receptive and interested in food – I do demonstrations at Chatsworth House and this was on a par. All in all it was an absolutely great weekend and if it happens again next year, count us in!”
Cookley’s Mark Renn, of The Big Pan Man, who delighted visitors with Spanish-style cuisine, added: “It was a privilege to attend such a well-organised and well-attended event. We sold out of food on both days, and the feedback from customers was excellent.”
