Feast for the senses sees foodies flock to Ludlow Spring Festival

The Ludlow Spring Festival, held in the grounds of the town's historic castle, brings together the very best of the region's food and drink.

There are beers, ciders and gins on offer and, with more than 60 food producers, those who attend are sure to find something to tickle their taste buds.

On Saturday festival goers had come from far and wide for the three-day event, which opened on Friday night and also included a pie trail around the town, workshops and demonstrations.

Live music on the lawns of the castle added to the atmosphere while a collection of vintage and classic cars were parked up nearby for everyone to inspect.

Denise Dalton, 42, husband Steve, 44, and sons Dylan, 14, and Tom, seven, had travelled from Bewdley by bus so they could enjoy some of the award-winning beers on offer.

Denise, a sales assistant, said: “There is a really great atmosphere and it has made for a brilliant day out.

"The beers on offer are interesting and it is nice to be able to try some of the more different ones.

"Coming on the bus was an adventure in itself as we have not been on one for such a long time – but it does mean we can enjoy a few glasses of beer and cider.”

Hyacinth Birch, 57 and from Tenbury Wells, had decided to stay overnight in Ludlow so that she could enjoy the festival.

And while beer was not her thing, she was sipping on a glass of Prosecco while listening to the live music.

“I wish the weather was a little bit warmer,” she said, “but we are having a lovely time.

"It is my first time here although my friends have been before and told me how good it was. There is a great atmosphere.”

Stall holder Heather Williams of Heather's Harvest was experiencing a brisk trade. Jars of her famous pickles, jams and chutneys were being snapped up.

She runs her business from Monkmoor Road in Shrewsbury and had come prepared for a busy weekend.

“Although it started off quite quietly, as the afternoon went on I got very busy,” said Heather, whose products are now being stocked in garden centres across the county.

“This is such a lovely festival and the people are so friendly. In fact it is one of my favourite events.”