PICTURES: Accrington Food Festival hailed 'roaring success'

Hailed a roaring success by its organisers, Accrington Food Festival dazzled attendees with spectacular attractions including international, regional and local food markets, 1940’s singers, a full-size Spitfire plane static display, a sensational war re-enactment and a kitchen demo area featuring TV star Molly Robbins and some amazing local businesses.

Molly, as seen on Netflix series “Extreme Cake Makers,” is an award winning cake artist and celebrity chef, and decorated two different cakes in the main marquee, with her signature ‘Extreme’ cake decorating techniques.

There was a Ready Steady Cook challenge with food from The Food Pantry, and cooking by Paul Fox from The Crafty Fox, Paul Sutton from Property Shop and Paul Maguire from North Lancs Training Group.

Stall holder, Tom Griffiths, from the Finest Fudge Company, who has a shop in Great Harwood said: "Today has been fantastic, it's one of our favourite food festivals to get involved with.

"It's been really well organised and there's so many people here, the people of Accy are the most friendly bunch."

The event also commemorated the D-Day landings in Normandy in 1944. A replica full size Spitfire plane was on display in the Town Square, and drew many impressed visitors, alongside authentic military vehicles.

Christopher and the Robins, 1940’s singers, performed in St James’ Church grounds, alongside a Cafe Rene hosted by NLTG’s Hospitality team with all the proceeds going to the church. Attendees were also treated to Allo Allo characters performing a very funny sketch with guest appearances.

Stephen Lowe from BBC Radio Lancashire hosted a really exciting war re-enactment that went down a storm with the crowd, which ended with a moving performance by the Lone Piper, from Accrington’s famous Pipe Band.

Debbie Handley from Sugar Tart Cupcakery said: "This is my fourth or fifth time here and it's been brilliant.

"It's been really well supported by the people of Accrington and I brought stock with me that was due for an event tomorrow and I've almost sold out, so I'm not really sure what I'm going to do!

"I think next year the Market Hall could be used a bit more, get a few more quality stall holders in and make it bigger and better."

Visitors were encouraged to try out local suppliers, and there were also more than 80 food, craft & drink stalls with goods from all over the world, including a continental market on Broadway, with the Market Hall hosting independent traders, entertainment, and cake decorating for children.

Tom Brasley and Maddy Morris said they'd enjoyed the food but would love to see more traders next year.

Tom said: "It's been really good, I've been before and had some Carribean food, which I don't think they have this year, so maybe next year they could try and get even more choice."

Managing Director at NLTG, Gareth Lindsay, said: “Hospitality is one of our key areas at NLTG, and we were delighted to be involved.

"We have lots of open vacancies and want to encourage people to train in this field of work.

"We got to showcase our expert tutors, have some fun hosting Café Rene, and give back to the Church at the same time."

Steven Chippendale, Commercial Director at Property Shop, added: “What a superb event – fantastic to see Accrington full of people enjoying themselves and giving a boost to the local economy. We’re always happy to support the town and the events, and it’s great to meet lots of new people!”

Chair of Amazing Accrington, Murray Dawson, said: “Accrington Food Festival is one of the showcase events for Accrington, and draws visitors from all over the region.

"I’m delighted it was such a spectacular success, and it just keeps getting better and better."

Sara Britcliffe, MP for Hyndburn and Haslingden, commented: “Today has blown me away, the town was absolutely buzzing with excitement.

"After the Queen’s Jubilee, today was a fitting tribute to D-Day.

"I also champion #ShopLocal and it was great to see local independent businesses doing so well, alongside international guests who add to the overall attraction for visitors.”

Miles Parkinson OBE, Leader of Hyndburn Borough Council, added: “I’ve never seen the town so busy, what an incredible event today which has really given a boost to our local traders.

"Amazing Accrington have put on some amazing events over the years and the Food Festival gets more spectacular every year. Café Rene was my favourite part this year.”