POOLE Park will host a new Taste of the South food festival this year, it has been announced.

The event is timed to coincide with the town's maritime festival - which incorporates European Maritime Day and the annual Poole Harbour Boat Show.

Organisers of the Taste of the South festival hope it will become a yearly fixture.

Cllr Mohan Iyengar, cabinet member for Poole Maritime Festival, Borough of Poole, said: "Taste of the South will be a celebration of local food, drink, art and culture – along with demonstrations and tastings. A great example of the quality and diversity of family events we’re lining up in May."

The festival will be a celebration of all things local from the south of England, which includes food, drink, produce, art, culture and entertainment, an event spokesman said.

He added: "There will be exhibitions, tastings and samplings to give a taste of the south. We are looking for exhibitors and sponsors for the event."

Suggestions for the festival so far include a secret gin garden, an outdoor food park, an artisan corner, family fun zone and demonstration area.

"With the Poole Harbour Boat Show now attracting thousands of visitors each year, the festival takes place that same weekend in Poole Park.

"It will complement the boat show and also the two day European Maritime Day Conference, a one-off event for the Dorset area.

"What better way to showcase the south with something for everyone to enjoy, taste and buy - which is locally sourced food, drinks and artisan products from art to bespoke creations.

"There will also be maritime performances and storytelling about Poole and its maritime heritage from piracy and intrigue to James Bond."

The organisers are offering a number of options and prices for exhibitors over the three day food festival.

Taste of the South is scheduled for Poole Park from May 19-21, opening Friday, 12-6pm, Saturday, 10am-6pm, and Sunday, 10am-5pm.

Interested parties should contact info@tastesouth.co.uk or call 01202 896698 for further details.