"The Welsh Food Festival was born in the summer of 2005. It got off to a fine start and has been going from strength to strength each year since then.

The food festival was dreamt up by the Mid-Wales Food and Land Trust, and the Thomas family who are very keen supporters of the local food industry are able to provide the perfect setting for the event, their home, Glansevern Hall.

Set in the heart of Mid Wales, with more than 20 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, including a lake, Glansevern gardens alone makes for a great day out, but if you would like to sample Welsh produce at its best the Welsh Food Festival is a really exciting event, one of the major food events in Wales.

Over 90 producers from Wales and the borders fill the courtyard and spill over into the gardens, showcasing their wares. You will find everything from cakes and desserts, to cheeses, meats, vegetarian food and bread, and local beers and ciders.

This year, for the first time, we will be introducing fine dining to the Welsh food festival. We are giving you the opportunity to sit down to a three course lunch by the lake, cooked and prepared by Stephane Borie from the 'Herbert Arms' in Chirbury, which he runs with his wife Sarah, and sister in law Kathryn.Booking is essential, either by email at reservations@herbertarmschirbury.co.uk or by phoning 01938 561216.

There will be a cookery theatre run by Lavinia Vaughan, the 'Mother of Welsh cooking', who will be introducing Chefs and cooks from all over Wales including Dai Chef, Louise Powell and Tim Harrison. You will be sure to come away with your tastebuds tingling, ready to try some new recipies at home.

There will be a host of activities throughout the weekend, including beekeeping demonstrations and talks about how to construct an edible garden. Local artisan Paul Hand will be demonstrating the art of making Welsh Love spoons, as well as building a Tudor house, and launching his coracle onto the lake.

The Welsh Food Festival may only last one weekend, but it is at the centre of a growing industry. Local food has become ever more important. Many people feel strongly that buying locally is far more sustainable. The Food Festival is proof of just how much can be sourced locally, either direct from the producer, or from Farm Shops and Farmers Markets."

Article written by Rachael Joseph

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