THE organisers of Nelson's Food Festival are urging local and regional businesses to sign up for this year's event on Saturday, September 1, as soon as possible to guarantee a stall.

The event has proved popular in previous years and North West celebrity chef and Egon Ronay Chef of the Year Paul Heathcote has already been booked to demonstrate his skills.

The Food Festival will be widely publicised and there will be free entertainment, including street performers, live music and cooking demonstrations to draw people from across the region.

Organiser Isobel Davies says: "Things are hotting up for the festival which offers the perfect opportunity for businesses to promote themselves to well over a thousand people on one day. Any business keen to take part should contact me on 01282 661677."

The event is organised by Nelson Town Centre Forum and Pendle Council and supported by Pendle Partnership with the aim of boosting local businesses and re-vitalising the town centre.