THOUSANDS of food fans are set to flock to Flintshire for the region’s biggest culinary festival.

More than 11,000 people visited Mold Food Festival last year and organisers are hoping for an even bigger attendance next month.

Celebrating the best in food and drink produced in and around Flintshire, the annual event has something to appeal to every taste.

With more than 70 stands to explore, celebrity chefs, live entertainment, competitions and interactive workshops, the festival guarantees a fun day out for all the family.

John Les Tomos, chairman of the organising committee, said: “The festival has grown in popularity year on year and we’re hoping to beat last year’s crowd.

“We’ve got lots of new exhibitors, family-orientated activities and entertainment across the two days.

“People come to the festival from across North Wales and beyond. The atmosphere is always fantastic.”

Michelin starred chef and television personality Jean-Christophe Novelli will demonstrate his skills in the cookery theatre with festival favourites Graham Tinsley and Brian Mellor also keeping visitors entertained.

Some of the county’s talented culinary wizards will compete for the prestigious title of Flintshire Chef of the Year 2011.

Home bakers can also put their skills to the test by taking part in the Best of Welsh Bake-off which aims to find the tastiest bara birth, while budding junior master chefs will do battle in the Teen Cuisine competition.

Visitors can try before they buy with dozens of exhibitors showcasing their products including award winning jams and chutneys from Pant Glas Bach Preserves, near Llanasa, and delicious buffalo, pork and lamb from North Wales Buffalo in Halkyn.

Other exhibitors include the National Trust, the RSPB and North Wales Wildlife Trust.

The festival’s interactive zone gives visitors the chance to take part in fun activities and workshops including creating their own exotic cocktails and decorating cupcakes.

Throughout the festival crowds will be entertained by live music from a wide range of artists including Mold Town Band, Hotfoot Jazzmen, The Breaks and Linda Campbell.

Mold Food Festival is being held on Saturday, September 24 and Sunday, September 25 on the town’s New Street car park.

Admission is £3.50 for adults, £1.50 for children aged three-12 and £8 for a family of two adults and two children.

For full details visit the website at www.moldfoodfestival.co.uk.