The Shropshire economy is set for another boost 10-12 September
as the annual Ludlow Marches Food and Drink Festival looks set to
break all records with more exhibitors and events than ever before.
In addition to the 150 stands within the castle grounds a
further 50 will join the event as part of the Sunday producers
market.
22,000 visitors made the trip to Shropshire's renowned food
capital last year and with retailers around the town also joining
in with festival offers and a special window dressing competition
the whole town benefits from the food extravaganza.
Festival chairman Phil Maile is excited by the scale of this
year's event.
"We feel we have put together the best three-day programme ever
this year. We have such a varied line-up that we can justly claim
that there is something for everyone - every single day.
"Local hotels are full around the festival and many visitors
find accommodation in other Shropshire locations such as Telford or
Shrewsbury boosting their occupancy rates. What's more with
the introduction of the campsite this year there's more opportunity
for people to spend the entire weekend in the county which again
will benefit the local economy."
He expects to see Saturday retain its lead as the festival's big
day but says, "The popularity of Friday has been growing because
more and more people are looking for things to do in their leisure
time. Saturday is the day with the majority of the trails,
including the highly popular Sausage Trail.
"And Sunday is a perfect day for families looking to round off
the weekend with a relaxing day or afternoon out.
"A new event this year, the British Street Food Awards, will
bring together the best street food providers in the country and is
expected to attract food tourist from around the country."
Mr Maile believes it is the festival's principle of providing
the best in local food and drink which has proved so successful
with the public. "And by gradually adding on other attractions we
have managed to keep the festival developing while retaining that
friendly atmosphere for which we have become known."
Ludlow Marches Food and Drink Festival takes place from Friday,
September 10, to Sunday, September 12.