THE sun almost shone once again on Wells Food Festival, which returned in full flavour on Sunday, October 12.
“It was an amazing day – dare I say the best yet,” said Festival Director Jon Abbott.
“Expanding a little further into the High Street, Sadler Street and Cathedral Green proved a great success. We had the same number of visitors, close to 16,000, but there was more room to browse the brilliant food and drink stalls, and space to sit and soak up the atmosphere. Visitors were even treated to an impromptu Morris Dancers display.”
At its heart, the festival is about celebrating and supporting the region’s culinary heroes and the 200-strong line-up of artisan market and street food traders were as busy as ever.
“I think the ‘sold out’ signs that so many of the stalls displayed at the end of the day says it all,” added Jon.
Feature areas drew enthusiastic crowds, from those keen to learn about English wine to others exploring ways to reduce food waste. Over at Little Joe’s Kitchen, children’s cookery workshops were fully booked throughout the day.
Charlie Bigham’s returned as headline sponsor, with Charlie himself once again judging the Best in Show stand from among 11 category winners. This year’s accolade went to Jane Swayne of Gilbert & Swayne, an artisan chocolatier based in Baltonsborough near Glastonbury.
“The chocolates were beautifully displayed and absolutely delicious,” said Charlie, presenting the award. “I’d like to buy the biggest box they’ve got.”
As volunteers began the task of packing down for another year, Jon offered his thanks: “A huge thank you to the team who work hard behind the scenes all year to ensure the festival is a success, and of course to everyone who helps out on the day – they are all volunteers, and I am so grateful for their enthusiasm and commitment. Bring on Wells Food Festival 2026.”
• Picture: Charlie Bigham presenting the Best in Show award to Jane Swayne and her team at Gilbert & Swayne chocolates (John Law)