EAST Lancashire resident considering visiting the returning Clitheroe Food festival have been advised they will be helping combat climate change.

Ricky Newmark, chairman of Ribble Valley Borough Council’s community services committee, tells them by attending and buying local from stalls there they be cutting their carbon footprint.

The award-winning festival returns to the streets of Clitheroe town centre on Saturday July 30 after a three-year break due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The festival attracts thousands of food enthusiasts seeking the best Lancashire produce.

Single-use plastics have been banned at the festival and exhibitors have been asked for assurances produce has not been air-freighted.

Exhibitors are expected to provide biodegradable cups, plates and utensils, and where possible compostable or recyclable packaging.

Attendees are being asked to use public transport where possible.

This year’s festival will feature 100 exhibitors, from wild game and Biltong beef to cheese truckles and curry kits, along with locally-grown fruit and vegetables.

Cllr Newmark said: “We have created a strong narrative around food over the years and been at the forefront of the resurgence in local produce.

“We are delighted that the much-loved Clitheroe Food Festival is to make a welcome return and provide vital support to food local businesses as we move into the post-pandemic period.

“Festivalgoers will be doing their bit for the environment as well as the economy by supporting local producers and preferably using public transport.

"In the future we will be looking at how we can offset the festival’s carbon footprint even further.”

The deadline for applications to book a pitch at the festival is Tuesday May 31.