Wenlock’s first food festival
Much Wenlock held its first ever food festival in June. “It was a lovely sunny day and Much Wenlock had a real buzz. Chef Jason Hodnett of the Raven Hotel – and star of last year’s Great British Menu – was on hand with cookery tips. We’re hoping to repeat the festivals monthly throughout the summer and autumn,” said Cllr Robin Bennett. Interested stallholders should call 01952 727509.
Raven chef on TV again
And, speaking of The Great British Menu, Jason Hodnett will be appearing on the BBC2 show again this year. The chefs are going to be celebrating 100 years of the WI, so expect home-cooking that combines cutting-edge gastronomy with authentic British flavours.
Ironbridge seasonal market
Ironbridge is now holding a market offering crafts, cakes, plants and preserves on The Wharfage car park the first Sunday of every month until October. Visitors can take advantage of the Ironbridge park and ride, which runs from the top of Jiggers Bank. The market runs from 10am to 3pm and interested traders can call 01952 380934.
Tanners on shortlist
Shropshire wine merchant Tanners Wines has been shortlisted as one of the UK’s best Large Independent Wine Merchants in the wine industry’s top awards. The annual awards, run by the International Wine Challenge, chose Tanners and just one other merchant for their shortlist. Tanners has also been shortlisted in the regional Central England North category. Marketing Manager Hannah Schwarzer said, “We’re thrilled with the shortlisting and have our fingers firmly crossed for the announcement of winners. It’s great news that a Shropshire business like Tanners continues to be recognised as a major competitor at a national level.”
Italia piazza in Bridgnorth
Back for the second year, a little taste of Italy will grace Bridgnorth High Street with a ‘belisimma’ Italian market on Sunday 26 July, from 9 to 5pm. Visit italiainpiazza.com to find out more.
Dazzling damsons
Did you know that the Shropshire prune damson is an officially designated ‘forgotten food’? Acton Scott Historic Working Farm will be playing their part in its revival with a Dazzling Damsons course – learn preserving and pickling techniques so that you can enjoy this versatile fruit the whole year round. Saturday 5 September, cost £60. A full list of courses can be found at actonscottmuseum.com
Cosford Food Festival
Gates open for the third Cosford Food Festival at 10am on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July and this summer, some of the region’s finest artisan produce, tastiest treats and best cooked dishes will be on offer. Visitors can learn from top chefs during cooking demos courtesy of the Wot’s Cooking team and there’s also live music, culinary samples and children’s food and craft activities. Tickets: adult £5; seniors £4; children £2; family £12.
Champagne boss joins cider firm
The Lambswick Drinks Company, sister company to Hobsons and maker of Oldfields Orchard Worcestershire ciders, who sponsored this year’s Bridgnorth Walk, has announced the appointment of chairman Nick James. Nick’s interest in craft cider harks back to his roots in north Herefordshire, a famous cider-making region. Nick said, “I’m delighted to be involved in this exciting new cider venture. I’m impressed by the commitment to growing the best cider apples, milling, pressing, fermenting, blending and distributing them themselves.”
