Huge crowds flocked to the Bury St Edmunds Food and Drink Festival and the bank holiday Monday turn-out could be the best-ever, according to organisers.
Mark Cordell, chief executive of Our Bury St Edmunds, said the popular two-day festival had been “a huge success”, with many traders selling out of produce by lunchtime yesterday.
The urban beach at the Arc shopping centre proved to be very popular and children were treated to a Punch and Judy show.
Celebrity chef Paul Rankin also pulled in crowds with cookery demonstrations at the Stoves Cookery Theatre yesterday, alongside demos from Bury St Edmunds eateries No.4 Resturant and Bar and Bury St Edmunds Farmers Club.
The farmers’ market on Angel Hill was also a success, with many traders selling out of their local produce.
Speaking to the EADT on Monday, Mr Cordell said: “It’s been a huge success.
“Lots of traders reported they ran out of produce by the afternoon.
“It’s difficult to quantify the numbers at the moment but my gut feeling is that today is the busiest day we’ve ever had.
“The figures might prove me wrong but it’s been very good.
“The damp weather played a part on Sunday, but people still came out and supported the event until lunchtime. The traders did quite well.
“But today was very busy, and I’ve got some very happy traders.
“Paul Rankin was a big draw and I think it was standing room only for his demonstrations.
“The beach has been packed all day and the farmers’ market was a big hit.
“I’m very pleased.”
There were around 64 stalls and food outlets for people to enjoy as well as the ever popular mini-farm – featuring pygmy goats, miniature pigs, an alpaca, and a miniature horse – on Abbeygate Street.
On Sunday, celebrity chef James Tanner gave cookery demonstrations and shared the stage with shows from staff from The Northgate, Maison Bleue and LP Bar.
Throughout the festival, a balloon modeller, stilt walker and magician also wowed spectators of all ages.
There were also fairground rides for people to enjoy at the Arc, while children got the opportunity to decorate cakes at a special creative cake workshop.
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