COTSWOLD foodie Prue Leith will open the Wild Thyme Food Festival at Chipping Norton Town Hall on Sunday, May 1.

Organisers Nick Pullen and Sally Daniel say the event will be even better this year with more exhibitors and demonstrations than the first festival last year. Sally said: “Nick and I were overwhelmed by the positive response we received at last year’s festival. We’re delighted to be able to put on this great day for everyone to enjoy celebrating all the local produce available in this area.”

More than 20 exhibitors will be showcasing the region’s best artisan and ethical food produce.

Included will be Chippy’s monthly farmer’s market regulars with cheesemaker Roger Crudge. He will host a beer and cheese-matching session together with local producers. Mr Pullen and his team will host cookery demonstrations throughout the day including an artisan bread-making masterclass and producing a dish from their current spring menu using pollock.

He will be joined by Sunday Times Style editor Lucas Hollweg, who will also be demonstrating recipes from, and signing copies of, his new cookery book Good Things to Eat.

A range of food activities will also be laid on for children by the pre-school leaving parents free to enjoy the festival.

Tickets on the door are £3 for adults with children under 14 going free.