by Alan Quick

THE Mayor of Crediton, Cllr Frank Letch, accompanied by the Mayoress, Mrs Natalia Letch, officially opened this weekend’s Crediton Food and Drink Festival this morning.

Crowds of people decided to head for the festival rather than the beach and were treated to chef demonstrations, face painting, balloon modelling, hair braiding and fabulous, fresh local food and drink.

The Town Square and Market Street were bursting with stalls offering a range of local produce to eat or drink on-the-spot as well as take-away food and beverages while the marquee was the place to see the ever-popular demonstrations.

Many stallholders saw such brisk trade that they ran out of items to sell.

Demonstrations were by Ruth’s Real Food, Cox’s Butchers, Il Casita, Dan the Fish Man, Baobab Cafe and Candimama.

This evening, Saturday, June 17, from 8pm to 11pm there will be Music in the marquee, food and drink stalls - A fantastic night of classic Americana from four splendid local bands— make sure you don’t miss it!

Ace roots harmonica player Rob Spence (formerly of “My Black Hat”) returns with his duo “Devon Delta”; the expanded five-piece “Wee Free Men” bring their quirky mix of bluegrass, old-time, cajun, skiffle and necro-folk; perrenial favourites “Far From the Delta” are back with their own individual take on dirty swamp blues; and the wonderful “Yellabellies” offer up-tempo country blues with a big twist.

Tomorrow, Sunday, June 18, from 12 noon to 3pm there will be The Big Sunday Lunch (and a chance to mark Father’s Day) - Buy produce from surrounding stalls to create or add to your picnic and take a seat to enjoy:

The Moon Jazz and Blues Club House Band will be playing some cool social music to accompany the excellent food and drink.

Tables and chairs will be provided for the Big Sunday Lunch, just take along your friends and family!