A CELEBRATION of Dorset’s artisan food and drink producers has been held at Merley House this weekend.

The food festival, organised by Wessex Food Events, is the first of its kind to be held at the Georgian manor house.

Hundreds of visitors have strolled from room to room, enjoying the delicious offerings from nearly 30 stalls.

As well as local producers such as Sam’s Fudge, Purbeck Ice Cream, Dorset Ginger, Wessex Game, Forager Spirit, Bayside Bakery, and the Dorset Chilli Shop, the festival has welcomed producers of international cuisine.

Lynda Daniels, festival organiser, said the whole festival was a “celebration of Dorset’s amazing food production”.

“This is our first festival and it’s gone down really well. Merley House lends itself beautifully to an event like this. Visitors have been delighted as they’ve enjoyed the food and the building’s architecture at the same time.”

Lynda added the majority of the food producers at the festival will soon be showcased at a new farm shop opening at The Oaks garden centre in Wimborne on October 1.