Bishop Auckland Food Festival saw record-breaking visitor numbers as it returned to its usual spring date this weekend.
More than 30,000 people flocked to the town centre from County Durham and beyond to try dishes from local traders, as well as watching a star-studded line up of TV chefs and bakers demonstrating their skills in the outdoor cookery theatre. Hosted by TV presenter Chris Bavin, the cookery line up included stars of Great British Bake Off John Whaite, Crystelle Pereira, Karen Wright and Chigs Parmar.
There was also former Dirty Sanchez star turned vegan chef Matt Baker, while popular BBC show MasterChef had plenty of representation. The Professionals' finalist Philli Armitage-Mattin brought her Asian-inspired dishes to the cookery theatre, while Bishop Auckland's own celebrity chef and MasterChef contestant Mike Bartley appeared and hosted a four course fine dining experience evening menu at the Town Hall created from local ingredients.
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And with more than 150 traders using the weekend as a chance to meet new customers and share their goods, there was a boost for businesses trading both at the festival and in the town itself. This year, the festival was a key part of County Durham's bid to become UK City of Culture 2025, for which it has reached the final shortlist of four, showcasing how people can get involved in culture through food.
Liza Johnson, owner of the Tea Enthusiasts, said: "It’s been amazing. I always love coming to Bishop Auckland Food Festival because of the range and variety of produce that they have here and the sheer number of traders.
"If you want to know what produce County Durham has to offer, this is the place to find out. The festival is also a great opportunity for local and independent traders to build their customer base and benefit from the thousands of visitors it attracts."
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Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: "It has been fantastic to welcome back visitors and traders once again to Bishop Auckland for two whole days of fun, food and entertainment. This year we’re delighted to have returned to our regular spring date, kicking off the county’s festival season with an explosion of flavour.
"Events like Bishop Auckland Food Festival are also a key part of County Durham’s bid to become UK City of Culture 2025, demonstrating the power of culture to bring people together and enhance the vibrancy of our communities. We hope everyone has had a fantastic weekend."
