THOUSANDS of people have been indulging their sweet tooth at the Great Christchurch Bake Weekend.

Christchurch Quay, transformed into a typical English fete scene, is playing host to the popular event, part of the Christchurch Food and Wine Festival.

The bake weekend is the grand finale of the festival, with workshops for youngsters, as well as demonstrations from local chefs and special guest Jo Wheatley, winner of the 2011 BBC Great British Bake-Off.

Jo, who appeared at the inaugural bake weekend last year, has been a popular draw for many visitors young and old, with the marquee filled with fans for her morning session.

She has also judged the adult baking compeition, saying she was "very impressed" with the entries.

"It's lovely to be back in Christchurch", she said.

"I love it here. Everyone is just so friendly and it's a beautiful place to be.

"As soon as I arrive here I just relax. It's a great event as well and it's brilliant to see so many people.

"I've just cooked chocolate chip and peanut butter cookies as well as a lemon and coconut cake for the demonstration.

"The cake was part of the adult cookery set challenge and they have all done so well.

"One cake - and I can't reveal yet whose it was - was amazing."

On Saturday afternoon Jo will be showing visitors how to create her version of an apple Dorset cake, inspired by her visit to the town last year.

Visitors can also enjoy a Champagne bar, beer bus, helter skelter and many other stalls and activities.