SIZZLING sausages and pukka paella drew in the crowds for Christchurch’s International Food Market at the weekend.

The sunny High Street was packed with more than 70,000 people browsing more than 100 stalls laden with everything from seafood to cheese and toffee vodka.

Band Swing Unlimited added to the jolly atmosphere at the event, part of the 10-day Christchurch Food and Wine Festival.

BBC TV Saturday Kitchen star James Martin and festival patron Lesley Waters were just some of the chefs showing off their skills in the demonstration tent.

James took to the stage twice, firstly with recipes from his latest book and then to collaborate with former colleague Luke Matthews, head chef at the New Forest’s Chewton Glen Hotel.

Opening the festival, Mayor Councillor Sue Spittle said in 13 years it had grown into one of the ‘biggest and best’ specialist food events in the country.

She told the Daily Echo: “Every year we have something different so it’s not got stale. The organisers are very innovative, all the pubs and hotels congregate together and Christchurch always pulls it off.”

Organising committee chairman Vicki Hallam said: “There’s something for everybody.”

Stall holders ranged from regulars Riverford produce, enjoying their 11th year, to first timers Mrs Tees Wild Mushrooms, from New Forest.

Robert Tee was rustling up Girole soup, venison and wild mushroom sausages and wild mushroom risotto for peckish passersby.

Owner Andria Maidment said: “Christchurch is such a well-known picturesque place everyone combines the festival with looking around and making a day of it.

“Unlike other festivals, everyone here makes an effort. It’s so much more than just a market.”

Further events this week include Master-classes and cake-making sessions for children.