The organisers of the Welsh Food Festival have announced that it is taking a year off, but will return in 2014.
For the past seven years, the Festival has been hosted by the Thomas family within the magnificent gardens and grounds of their home, Glansevern Hall, near Welshpool.
It has become one of the largest food and drink festivals in Wales and the borders which has grown, year on year, to include live cookery demonstration, local musical entertainment; children activities and attracted celebrities such as TV chef Bryn Williams, Welsh chef Dudley Newbury and weather presenter Sian Lloyd.
Last year, Neville and Jenny Thomas announced their intention to retire and sell Glansevern Hall. Currently, the property is still for sale, but festival organisers are optimistic that it will continue under new ownership at Glansevern Hall in 2014.
"The festival has grown from strength to strength under the caring and watchful eyes of Neville and Jenny Thomas and we are indebted to the family for hosting this wonderful festival at their home for so many years,” said Bernard Harris, Chairman of the Welsh Food Festival.
The festival has become a real favourite for producers with many describing it as ‘the best in Wales’. Last year, it attracted a record number of stalls and over 6,000 visitors, which according to Bernard Harris is because of its unique brand and the hard work and dedication of many volunteers.
“Over the years the Welsh Food Festival’s has flourished and developed its own unique brand which is recognised and cherished by producers and visitors alike. It has also been supported by many local volunteers who have all played an important role in making the Welsh Food Festival a great event. We look forward to working with everyone again and welcoming them back in 2014,” he added.
Organisers of the festival have written to all stall holders who participated last year and have been overwhelmed by messages of support for the festival’s future and their eagerness to participate in 2014. (1)
“We know that events such as the Welsh Food Festival are so important to rural areas as they provide a platform for producers to showcase their produce, which is why we are committed to ensuring the festival returns in 2014,” Bernard added.
The Food Festival was established in 2005 as a result of Jenny and Neville Thomas’ determination to help reconnect people with their food and attract more visitors to Mid Wales. It was this passion that led to them offering Glansevern Hall Gardens as the home of the Festival.
“We are very proud of how the Welsh Food Festival has flourished to become one of the best in Wales. We believe that it encapsulates everything that is special about this wonderful part of Wales - the talent of the people, the quality of the food and the wonderful culture,” said Jenny Thomas.
The festival’s website is still live for producers to promote their businesses and will be updated on future plans for 2014www.welshfoodfestival.co.uk
