Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival back this summer after being cancelled the past two years

A HOST of famous chefs will be showing off their talents at the Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival which is back this summer after being cancelled by the pandemic for the last two years.

Organisers said they were thrilled to announce it will now take place on 11th-12th June in the village centre and on the recreation ground.

At the famous cookery theatre, which is sponsored by Christchurch Harbour Hotel, will be big names including Jean-Christophe Novelli and TV chef Lesley Waters.

A local team will also be taking part in a marquee on the green, to include the Jetty’s Alex Aitken as well as James Golding, chef director of the Pig Group.

Over 120 traders are already booked, and there will also be Crafts on the Green hosted by the Little Craft Shack.

Ian Hartnell, chair of Highcliffe Residents’ Association, said: “We are very proud indeed to support this year’s food and arts festival.

“This event is pivotal in bringing not only a much-needed boost to businesses in Highcliffe but also to raise the profile of our village as a

vibrant and welcoming community.”

Founder and co-chair Mary Reader added: “Our team of directors and committee are so grateful to Highcliffe Residents’ Association, BCP Council and the parish council for their support, and to so many local businesses who are giving financial help.

“The festival is a free-to-attend event, but we as organisers have a huge amount of expenditure to cover.”

There are two musical stages and there will also be shows for youngsters.

Children’s craft workshops will feature alongside a treasure hunt, and this year’s event will see the return of the Grow Your Own tent featuring Highcliffe in Bloom.

Special emphasis this year will be on supporting Plastic-free Highcliffe, with all stallholders asked to bring along compostable containers and cutlery.

To find out more, visit www.highcliffefoodandartsfestival.co.uk