TENS of thousands of people will be tucking into tasty treats from around the world at the annual Christchurch Food and Wine Festival this weekend.

Residents and visitors alike flocked to the borough today to support the event, which continues tomorrow.

The festival, which is now in its 16th year, features hundreds of stalls all serving up a variety of European, Indian and Asian cuisine, as well as the traditional favourites from local restaurants and suppliers.

This morning Dragon’s Den star Levi Roots, famous for his Reggae Reggae sauce, performed a cookery demonstration.

Other chefs due to show off their skills include Ready Steady Cook veteran Lesley Waters and local chefs Alex Aitken from The Jetty in Christchurch, Masterchef finalist Dean Edwards, James Golding from The Pig in Studland and Colin Nash from the Three Tuns in Bransgore.

Sally Jose, owner of Coast Coffee on High Street, said the festival brings a welcomed boost for businesses.

She said: “It’s always very exciting and lots of fun. We really look forward to it – it’s the start of the summer for us.

“A lot of people come to the town for the festival and look around and then they come back to visit.”

Christchurch residents Pam and Mick Howell said they come along every year.

Mrs Howell added: “It’s been lovely and sunny, which is nice. It’s always very interesting and it gives a boost to the town.”

Tony Wright, who was visiting the area with his partner and their 10-month-old British Bulldog Nelly, said it was a fantastic event.

He said: “Our friend suggested we come down and it’s great – there is a really great atmosphere.”

Neals and Son butchers, based in Tuckton, was one of many local suppliers serving up grub to queues of peckish punters.

Wayne Baker, who was cooking up a variety of burgers and sausages, said: “I’ve been coming here for the last four years and it just gets better every year.

“It’s like everything in Bournemouth – these events just get bigger and better, like the Air Festival.

“It’s a great day out for everyone.”

For further information about the festival go to Christchurchfoodfest.co.uk.