THE cream of the culinary world will be heading to Suffolk this weekend for the start of a fortnight long celebration of the county’s gastronomic delights.

Final preparations are now under way for the Aldeburgh Food and Drink Festival, which kicks off on Saturday.

As well as the main two day showcase - held at Snape Maltings over the weekend - there are also a number of fringe events running throughout east Suffolk until October 14.

More than 100 producers are expected to turn out for the festival, which will celebrate the very best food and drink that Suffolk has to offer.

Among the highlights are a number of demonstrations by celebrity chefs such as Valentine Warner, Angela Hartnett, Emma Crowhurst, Masterchef winner Tommi Miers, Matthew Fort and English gardener, writer and presenter Sarah Raven.

There is also a programme of talks, workshops and hands on cookery lessons for children and grown-ups.

Meanwhile Southwold based brewery Adnams are offering introductions to wine, beer and spirits.

Alesha Gooderham, one of the festival directors and director at Snape Maltings, said: “This is one of Suffolk’s best weekends of the year.

“Alongside the producers look out for demonstrations from some of the nation’s leading chefs.

“We appreciate the value and importance of sharing the best of Suffolk’s food and drink so entry for children is free of charge. Adult tickets are �7, which includes a shopping bag and no charge for parking.

“For those super foodies we have a weekend pass for �12. All tickets can be purchased on arrival. The weather looks set to make for a truly superb celebration of food and drink – so come and join us.”

A fortnight of fringe events will also be held to showcase the “field to fork” principle, providing a chance schools, businesses, restaurateurs, hoteliers and food enthusiasts to visit producers, explore the countryside and experience new dining experiences.

Event sponsors include Adnams and Suffolk County Council, as well as many local businesses.

For more information about the events being held visit www.aldeburghfoodanddrink.co.uk.