MORE than 25,000 people are expected to enjoy a feast of attractions at the Nantwich Food and Drink Festival.

Billed as the biggest culinary fair in England, visitors will be able to choose from a vast array of regionally produced gourmet food, and enjoy guided beer and wine tastings.

The festival, taking place from Friday, September 29 to Sunday, October 1, will draw big crowds to Mill Island.

Organiser Phil Riding said: 'Last year the show attracted 28,500 visitors from all over the UK, and this year promises to attract even more food-lovers to Nantwich.

'It is a fantastic opportunity to make people aware of the quality independent producers in the area and of one of the finest farmers' markets in the UK.

'We have added some exciting new features to the festival, such as the Gourmet Food & Wine Evening, and it is guaranteed to be an entertaining day out for all the family.

'As an event, it has gone from strength to strength and we are confident this year will be even better.'

First launched in 2002, the festival promotes fine foods produced in Cheshire.

The gourmet food marquee will feature more than 90 food producers.

A farmers' market will play host to 30 local producers trading their fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs, breads, cheese and meats, including wild boar meat.

Real ale fans will find plenty to sample at the CAMRA Nantwich Beer Festival taking place as part of the event.

Families can keep their eyes peeled for famous faces with celebrity chefs Lesley Waters and Simon Rimmer demonstrating their culinary wizardry at the cooking counter.

Other events include a Chocolate Appreciation Evening and a Gourmet Food and Beer Evening, while children will be entertained at the Kids' Kitchen, hosted by TV broadcaster Amanda Grant.

Guided food trails will lead visitors around the finest cheese, sausage and tea shops in Nantwich.

New events this year also include a 'Taste of Cheshire' marquee and the Edencroft Fine Wine & Spirit Pavilion, incorporating the Fine Wine & Spirit Theatre.

Entrance to the festival is free except for the gourmet food marquee, Edencroft Fine Wine & Spirit Pavilion, CAMRA Nantwich Beer Festival and the speciality events. * For tickets phone the hotline 01270 610983.