SHOWERY skies did not deter hungry shoppers from flocking to Christchurch High Street at the weekend for the town’s annual food and wine festival.
Scrumptious smells wafted through the streets as the popular international market drew thousands of people to the town centre on Saturday and Sunday.
Despite the constant threat of rain overhead, the packed-out town saw hungry buyers snapping up a variety of yummy goodies many from local traders and restaurants.
From olives to asparagus, delicious pastries and breads, hand-crafted cupcakes and chocolate, there was temptation at every turn.
The Captains Club at Christchurch was offering thirsty visitors a range of cocktails, while chefs from The Manor in Burton assembled tasty Yorkshire puddings with roast beef and gravy for a mouth-watering snack.
Those with a sweet tooth could choose from handcrafted Jagermeister or Baileys chocolate in the Italian market in Church Street, while lovers of seafood were spoilt for choice.
Cooking demonstrations took place in Saxon Square throughout the day while youngsters also had the chance to try their hands at making pasta and other dishes at the Kids’ Kitchen in Priory School.
The festival will continue throughout the week with special offers and events taking place every day at different restaurants and eateries throughout the borough.
From Tuesday a ‘cookschool’ will be held in the Priory Suite of the Kings Hotel, with each day taking on a different theme.
Lesley Waters will give a master class on Tuesday, while chocoholics will indulge their passion on Wednesday, a lesson in wine tasting taking place on Thursday with a food, fun and fitness session on Friday.
Tickets are available at the town’s Information Centre or at the Kings Hotel.
For more information on the Christchurch Food and Wine Festival 2011 go to http://christchurchfoodfest.co.uk.
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