DORSET is becoming a veritable hub for food festivals, with a number of other events taking place throughout the year.

To start us off is the Christchurch Food Festival that runs from Friday, May 10 to Sunday, May 19. The food market takes place on May 11 and 12, with the Great Christchurch Bake Weekend and Fete on May 18 and 19.

Bournemouth Food and Drink Festival runs from June 21 to 30 in the town centre. Now in its third year, it aims to promote local produce and support local businesses.

Highlights include a three-day local farmers market and a special Caribbean-themed day, bringing together the tastes, styles and sounds of the region.

In July, Weymouth Harbour becomes the perfect backdrop for the Dorset Seafood Festival, with over 80 stalls, seafood menus, celebrity chefs, local ales and a fabulous atmosphere.

The event, which this year runs on July 13 and 14, raises money for The Royal National Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen and, now in its sixth year, is one of the country’s largest food festivals.

Later in the year, foodies descend upon the Wimborne Food Festival, which this year takes place on October 26 and 27.

Street theatre and musical entertainment accompany the cookery theatre, food tents, market stalls and children’s food factory.

It looks like food is the new rock and ‘roll’.