BUSINESS leaders are urging businesses to showcase their wares at the upcoming Nelson Food and Drink Festival.

More than 9,000 people are expected to flock to the town in September in the third instalment of the event.

Last year's event, lead by celebrity chef Richard Fox who put on a demonstration of culinary delights who is returning again, was a massive success and organisers are urging traders to book stalls and take advantage of the influx of people.

Zahida Shamim, Events Director at Scott Dawson Advertising, who organise the event, said: “We are seeing an increased demand to host a stand at the festival every year and I would encourage anyone who would like a presence at the event to get in there early because the slots are likely to fill up pretty quick.

"Last year, we increased footfall to the festival by a thousand people and this year we intend to go even further. It really is a fantastic place to showcase your business and products to a huge amount of people in the surrounding area, so get involved, the more the merrier.”

Mike Williams, Tourism Team Leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: “With the rise of the popularity of food programmes, and the importance of the food sector to the local economy, the event has not only proved a big hit but is a very important event not just to Nelson, but the whole of the Borough. It attracts thousands of visitors, top producers, and celebrity chefs.”

Zafar Ali, Chairman of Nelson Town Council, said: “Me and my colleagues are thrilled to see the Food and Drink Festival coming to Nelson again. Last year’s event was so popular I had residents, young and old, asking whether we could put the event on every month. You only had to look at the queues at the stalls to see how many food and drink enthusiasts there are in Nelson and East Lancashire - it was amazing.

"My aim as Chairman of this Town Council is to keep rejuvenating our vibrant and diverse community and my colleagues try their utmost best to support Nelson residents in all walks of life."

Nelson Food & Drink Festival takes place in Nelson town centre from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, September 16. Find full details, including a downloadable brochure with the festival itinerary, at www.nelsonfoodfestival.co.uk.

Keep up to date with news and updates on the Nelson Food Festival Facebook page and follow @nelsonfoodfest on Twitter.