Foodies flock to fill festival

Thousands of foodies were tantalising their tastebuds in Ellesmere this weekend at the town's annual Food and Drink Festival showcased the county's finest produce and dishes from around the world.

A mouth watering array of local, national and international flavours were on display at the event, which saw over 10,000 people visit the town over the two day culinary extravaganza.

More than 40 exhibitors were showcasing their wares, and organisers said the festival was the town's best ever.

Among the produce on display at the Shropshire Star-sponsored event was Shropshire cheeses, Indian and Thai food, Spanish paella, French crepes, South African food, vegetarian food and nuts, as well as a range of beer, wine and speciality coffee.

The event is held annually and is organised by Ellesmere Chamber of Commerce as part of a drive to boost tourism.

Lincoln McMullan, chairman of the Chamber said the event was a huge success, with hundreds of people arriving within minutes of the festival starting at 10am on Saturday.

"It was absolutely fantastic, it was the best ever. We had people from Liverpool, Chester, Telford, Welshpool, south Shropshire and even someone from Leicester," he said.

"I would say we had between 10,000 and 12,000 - we had more families on Sunday and it started off slower, perhaps because it was Father's Day, but by noon it was completely full.

"Every single person has asked me to book it for next year; everything was good, everyone was happy and we are all delighted."