Celebrity Chefs James Martin, Michael Caines, Ainsley Harriott and Simon Rimmer have been confirmed to appear at this year’s Bolton Food and Drink Festival.
A recipe for success
Four celebrity chefs will be giving live cookery demonstrations and hosting a series of special events at the festival, which will run from 25 – 28 August.
More than 263,000 visitors attended last year’s event, which is organised by Bolton Council in association with Aldi, and was recognised as The Best Food Market at this year’s Great British Market Awards.
Michelin-starred chef Michael Caines will once again launch the festival on Friday August 25 before hosting a gala dinner the same night. He said, ‘It is always an honour to launch this amazing festival. It’s got a fantastic vibe and I look forward to it every year.’
Also returning to the festival is chef and co-presenter of Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch, Simon Rimmer, who will host a ‘Saturday Brunch’ event. He commented, ‘I first came to the festival in 2008 when it was a small scale event, but over the years it has grown massively in size and reputation. I can’t wait to make a return visit.’
Appearing at the festival for the first time, is former Ready Steady Cook host and Strictly Come Dancing star Ainsley Harriott. Ainsley will be performing a live cookery demonstration and hosting an afternoon tea on Sunday August 26. He said, ‘I’ve always enjoyed visiting Bolton and I’ve heard great things about this festival – so I can’t wait to come back, get stuck in and meet all the fantastic people.’
This year will be the ninth appearance for James Martin, who will appear Bank Holiday Monday, August 29, the final day of the festival. He commented, ‘I love this festival, the people are so welcoming. I’ve been doing it for so many years and there is always something new and different to look forward to.’
The festival will feature cookery demonstrations from top regional chefs along with a speciality food, drink and crafts market with more than 200 traders. Entertainment will be provided by live music, street performers, and children’s activities.
Leader of Bolton Council, Cllr Cliff Morris, said, ‘The festival is the jewel in the crown of Bolton’s annual events and this year I am sure it will be bigger and better than ever.’