Festival on way

Featuring a eclectic line-up of chefs with a mixture of masterclasses, tutored tastings, walks, talks, stalls and street entertainment, the festival promises an irresistible day out for the family.

Festival Director Martin Orbach said: "We are privileged once more to share the company of some of the most celebrated and articulate names in the culinary world who join us to share their skill, passion and knowledge."

The Angel Hotel hosts Mark Hix, luminary of theLondon restaurant scene who hosts Wild (about) Mushrooms; Elizabeth Luard, cookery writer and food historian, focuses on the Celtic culinary tradition; and Fishworks supremo Mitchell Tonks shares the secret of great-tasting fish.

Abergavenny's own Franco Taruschio cooks up some Italian Style with food writer Lindy Wildsmith while ice cream enthusiast Robin Weir explains how the dessert was made in the 17th century.

Among the other local people appearing in the festival are artist Caroline Downey who will have a special art exhibition and Sarah Stacey, who farms organic Welsh black beef.

This year's charity event, based at the Cheese and Wine venue is Old and New Wines where the Independent's wine correspondent, Anthony Rose, will take visitors through a selection from the Waitrose list.

Proceeds will go to St Anne's Hospice.

General entry tickets give access to the Market Hall, the Castle and Cheese and Wine Show with over 100 food stalls from Wales and the borders.

Masterclasses, walks, talks and tutored tastings are all individually ticketed (£4 to £7) and general entry tickets for the day cost £7.50. A family ticket (two adults, three children under 14) costs £7.50. Weekend passes are also available.

To obtain a programme, please call the Festival office on 01873 851643 or e-mail info@abergavennyfoodfestival.com

The full programme can also be viewed at www.abergavennyfoodfestival.com and for tickets call the box office on 01873 850805.