More than 6,000 visitors enjoyed the Cheshire and North Wales Food And Drink Festival – despite organisers being forced to close for a full day.
The three-day event, held from 3–5 April, was hit by disruption from Storm Dave, meaning Saturday’s programme had to be cancelled on safety grounds.
However, organisers say a strong turnout on Friday and a “standout” Sunday helped salvage the weekend.
The event is now under the stewardship of local hotelier and DevaFest co-owner Steven Hesketh, and CoolBreeze Events founder Katie Isaacson.
The pair stepped in earlier this year to secure the future of the festival, ensuring the continuation of one of the region’s most popular annual events.
And the pair had a challenging opening year at the event as they were dealt a cruel hand by the weather-Gods.
But a major boost came via Cherish Finden, judge on Bake Off: The Professionals, whose appearance was rescheduled from Saturday to Sunday. She went on to attract the largest chef demo audience of the event.
A Taylor Swift tribute act, originally planned for Saturday, was also successfully moved, helping maintain the programme.
Family entertainment also proved central to the festival’s appeal, with the kids’ zone, live performances, and roaming characters driving footfall.
The festival also showcased regional producers and hospitality businesses, including headline sponsor CHANCE Clean Cider, the UK’s first dedicated non-alcoholic cider brand, at a time when the sector continues to face mounting pressures.
Despite the strong attendance, organisers confirmed the loss of a full trading day will result in a financial hit.
Festival director Steven Hesketh, who also runs Chester’s Townhouse Hotel, said:
“Closing on Saturday was a huge blow, but safety had to come first. What really stood out was how everyone responded, traders, performers and visitors. To still welcome over 6,000 people is a fantastic result, and Sunday had a brilliant atmosphere.”
He added: “This festival is about championing hospitality and the incredible food and drink businesses we have across the region. It’s no secret the sector is under real pressure. Losing a full day means we will all take a substantial financial hit, but backing this industry matters.”
Organisers say all free adult and children’s cooking classes sold out, with additional visitors gathering to watch sessions from outside the demo areas.
Looking ahead, the festival team says it will now review the event’s future.
Mr Hesketh said: “We believe this can become a major celebration of food, drink and hospitality across Cheshire and North Wales. But events like this need support. When they’re gone, they rarely come back, and the economic and community value goes with them.”