THE streets of Christchurch were awash with food, drink and a few star names at the weekend.

Appearances from celebrity chefs Lesley Waters and Cyrus Todiwala added a dash of extra glamour to the town’s annual food and wine festival.

Opened by the mayor, Cllr John Lofts, on Saturday, visitors enjoyed a selection of treats and delicacies.

Chairman of the food festival committee Vicki Hallam said around 70,000 people were expected to have shown up across the two days.

She said: “People have been really enjoying the demonstrations – particularly the ones from Lesley Waters and Cyrus Todiwala. It’s been fantastic. We were concerned when we saw the weather forecast but it has turned out to be really good.”

More than 100 stalls were set up by traders showing off products ranging from olives to fine oils, asparagus, bread, sausages and cheeses.

However, those with a sweeter tooth were also catered for and the spectacular cakes on offer from Westbourne based Sweet Serenity were proving a big hit with passers-by.

Manager of Sweet Serenity Lindsey Crosby, who was accompanied by cake artist Amy O’Guynn, said it was the pair’s first time at the festival and a great opportunity to extend their customer base.

She added: “It’s been a good day. All the traders have been really friendly. We want to show people that cakes don’t have to be dry and tasteless.

“Cake makers sometimes get a bad rap but we don’t put in any additives and try to keep them healthy. “

The event also featured music from Swing Unlimited Big Band, with an Italian market on cobbled Church Street and an Artisan market in the Natwest car park.

There were demonstrations from local chefs under the marquee in the Regent Centre car park.

On Sunday the Kings Arms Hotel in Castle Street played host to the much anticipated Great Christchurch Bake Off and a family fun day on the bowling green and pavilion.