Organisers of the 10th Wellington Food Town were able to enjoy the results of their hard work when 70 stallholders chose to bring their produce to the town and big crowds turned out to enjoy what has become a prestigious celebration of food grown and made locally and from around the world.
Celebrated multi Michelin Star winner Jean-Christophe Novelli joined two local chefs, Liam Finnigan from the Castle Hotel and Michael Griffiths from Culm Valley Inn, in a series of cookery demonstrations to large crowds in the Scout Hall.
Donna Munson, Chairman of Wellington Food Town Committee, said, “It’s been very good, despite all the build-up being hectic as usual. Volunteers have been fantastic and, although some traders dropped out at the last minute, others have taken their places.”
She added, “We’ve capped the number of stallholders at 70 – which is the same as last year – because we felt that the town can only absorb so many. Our car parks are not that big! We want traders and visitors to have a good experience so 70 is about right. This year we’ve put the bouncy castle in the High Street; although it’s an adult event we think the children need something for them.”
Alongside a wide range of food and drink traders and local shops doing very good business, there was entertainment from bands in South Street and the High Street, face-painting, a visit from BBC Somerset and support from local community groups including Somerset County Council, St John’s Ambulance and 1st Wellington Scouts.
Jean-Christophe Novelli joined Richard Coupe – who is responsible for PR and Marketing the Food Town event – in the Conservative Club to sign copies of his book.
From its inauguration 10 years ago when the Food Town event took place in a marquee with a few stall in the Conservative Club car park, it has grown to become one of the most successful festivals in the town’s annual calendar.
