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Having discussed the idea of a Festival with William Kendall, formerly CEO of Green & Black’s chocolate and the New Covent Garden Soup Company and a local organic farmer, and Alesha Gooderham who launched the Snape Maltings’ farmer’s markets, Tim Rowan-Robinson, of Thorpeness & Aldeburgh Hotels Ltd, asked her to organise the first Festival which took place in September 2006.
Over 70 traders showcased their unique products at a variety of stands – some brought in their own gazebos and tables, others used the Snape Maltings’ Farmer’s Market canopied stands. The three marquees where almost all producers were based were a riot of colours and a feast on the eyes. Each marquee was decorated in a different primary colour with colourful bunting made especially for the event. |
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The demonstration kitchen was used throughout each day of the Festival with a range of local chefs showcasing their signature dishes every hour. Highlights included Ruth Watson of the Crown and Castle (and TV’s The Hotel Inspector programme), working with her Head Chef Max, Mark and Sophie Dorber from The Anchor at Walberswick explaining the fine partnership between good food and a variety of beers from the region, guest chef Brian Turner taking to the stage on Sunday morning creating a myriad of exquisite dishes, Matthew Rice with a live chicken on stage, Anna Mosesson not just cooking, but singing too plus many of the regions finest chefs all working with some of the area’s locally produced ingredients. Peter Jordan, wild mushroom expert imparted his knowledge through various talks, and Natural England led some discussion forums. There were tours of the Aldeburgh Music’s Concert Hall, RSPB guided walks along the Estuary, River Trips and Aldeburgh Music Masterclasses. |
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Jason Gaythorne-Hardy of Alde Valley Food Adventures hosted a Festival Feast at his farm in Great Glemham on the Saturday evening. This was attended by a whole range of foodies who really enjoyed the rustic atmostphere. Guests barbecued their own muntjac and lamb on hazel sticks, ate wild puffball and rabbit pate, tzatziki made with local yogurt as well as eating warm crepes drizzled with local garden syrups – and all washed down with local apple juice or something stronger! The Festival in 2007 was a similar triumph and this time there were a whole range of activities taking place throughout the region in the 10 days leading up to the Festival: tastings, farm walks, mushroom foraging as well as progressive dinners with a different course in a different restaurant! Inspired Event Management are now working on the 2008 Festival and more information can be found on this at www.aldeburghfoodanddrink.co.uk. |
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Telephone: 01473 734017 Mobile: 0775 262 3483 E-mail: jenny@inspiredeventmanagement.co.uk |