MORE THAN 14,000 people flocked to the centre of Newport on Saturday to sample the delights available at the city’s annual food festival.

Attendance to the festival was slightly down from last year, when 15,000 people filled the streets.

But traders, chefs and entertainers braved the wet weather to provide culinary delights, packed out demonstrations, and smiles to the faces of visitors.

Councillor Debbie Wilcox, leader of Newport City Council, said: “It was great to see people returning to the food festival and also so many first-time visitors – both local and from further afield.

“The festival has truly found its footing and what promised to be the biggest and best yet, certainly didn’t disappoint.

“The fringe events were also excellent – empty plates and flowing conversation were definitely the markings of a very successful event for The Ridgeway Bar & Kitchen pre-festival supper on Friday night!”

Bradley Cummings, from Tiny Rebel - the festival’s main sponsor - added: “I think it went very well. I thought it went better than last year.

“I think the quality of the traders has improved, which is what we’re looking for.

“Despite the rain, it was fun. It was a great success.”

Mr Cummings also said that, as they’re the main sponsors of the festival, Tiny Rebel will be looking at how to continue to grow the festival and raise its profile.

“It’s going to be exciting, in the next 12 months,” he said. “We’ll be putting our own stamp on the festival.”

This year’s festival centred on the High Street and Newport Market, including its gallery level, and surrounding areas, boasting more than 80 stalls.

There were also free chef demonstrations running throughout the day.

These included festival patron Hywel Jones, of Lucknam Park; Masterchef’s Larkin Cen; Simon Crockford of the Celtic Manor; and Steve White of The Ruperra Arms.

A range of fringe events including a treasure hunt, children’s competitions at Friars Walk, and special offers from traders featured as well.

Music filled the streets, with bands and groups playing in the High Street, Westgate Square and outside Newport Market between 11am-4pm.

These included Gwent Youth Brass Ensemble, Cajun Street Band and a Samba group.

Cllr Wilcox added: “I would also like extend my appreciation again to this year’s sponsors and supporters – without them we wouldn’t have had the offering we did.

“Thanks to the businesses, residents and visitors who all showed they’re #BackingNewport.”

Sponsors and supporters of this year’s event were Tiny Rebel, Admiral, Celtic Manor Resort, The Golden Lion Magor, Everett Tomlin Lloyd & Pratt Solicitors, Western Power Distribution, Mojo The Food Bar, Clarks and Friars Walk.

South Wales Argus: