A SHOWCASE of culinary delights is thought to have been worth almost �1.5m to the local economy.

Organisers of the fortnight long Aldeburgh Food and Drink Festival are expecting producers to reap the rewards from this year’s event.

The main showcase was held at Snape Maltings at the end of last month but a variety of fringe events are on going until Sunday. It included demonstrations by celebrity chefs, workshops, seminars, tastings and children’s activities - all promoting the varied produce the county has to offer.

Alesha Gooderham, one of the festival directors and director at Snape Maltings, said: “The festival brought together the best of the region’s food and drink producers, with more than 90 exhibitors - the majority local to east Suffolk.

“It has become established as one of the foremost food festivals in Britain and Suffolk, with this year’s event succeeding in attracting more than 10,000 visitors.

“The weekend proved a tremendous success, with producers achieving record sales. The event is worth over �1.25m to the local food economy, which was always the primary objective for the festival.

“Suffolk has become a popular food destination attracting an exciting line-up of nationally recognised chefs, writers and broadcasters who were part of the main attractions.”

The weekend was such a success that organisers have already agreed a date of September 28 and 29 to launch 2013’s showcase.

This year’s festival continues until Sunday, with a number of venues holding a variety of fringe events, inspired by the “field to fork” principle and aiming to promote an understanding of the wider importance of local, seasonal food and drink in the context of sustainable farming, fishing and food production.

Sponsored by Suffolk Coasts and Heaths, the programme includes organic farm walks, “meet the producers” events, progressive suppers, cookery workshops, training and gourmet food experiences.

It includes this weekend’s Framlingham Sausage Trail, a “behind the scenes” look at the Pump Street Bakery in Orford and a smokehouse tour at Emmett’s Store in Peasenhall.

For further details of events visit www.aldeburghfoodanddrink.co.uk.