Boost for Romsey as food fair returns
The aim is to support local
The streets of Romsey town centre are set to be brimming with food and drink - as the food fair returns today.
Organisers says there's plenty on offer and is a chance to support local farmers, producers and businesses.
The free event was taken over post-pandemic by the Romsey and District Chamber of Commerce.
President Adam Clemett said: “This will be our second year managing the Food Fair and we are excited to be back, giving food lovers the chance to discover some of the finest produce the area has to offer.
"It’s easy to support the local community by visiting the Romsey Food Fair as not only will you be treated to the best independently sourced and made produce, but you will also be helping local farmers and businesses thrive.
“The free event will be in full swing from 10am – 4pm, so come to discover and delight in the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the day. You can wander among the stands and meet the local producers themselves, find out about the processes involved in making their products and feel their passion.
"We can guarantee you will find plenty of locally made produce for you to enjoy at the Fair and take home with you.”
This year’s sponsors are Bramshaw Golf Club, which is set against the stunning backdrop of the New Forest, and The Bell Inn, a charming country Pub, dog friendly, 26-bedroom coaching inn with oodles of character, nestled in the heart of the Forest easily accessible via the A36 and M27.
Chris Lambird, Head Chef of The Bell Inn said: “We are very proud to be sponsoring the Romsey Food Fair which supports and promotes local producers and traders. Local produce is at the core of our business, and we believe in promoting and showcasing quality independent suppliers.
"We are looking forward to being there on the day, so pop over and say hello whilst tasting and exploring what the Food Fair will offer.”
Romsey-based Parker Bullen, The Mortgage Stop and Kit & Caboodle are also sponsors.
Dandys Ford Dairy will be returning for their second year at the Fair selling their milk, milkshakes and new for this year, artisan gelato.
Emma Hunt owner said: “We are really excited this year to launch our gelato made from the milk of our happy cows and then given to our friends at Moody Cow Gelato in Fordingbridge to create the delicious creamy delight!
"Our micro dairy is situated just outside Romsey where our cows keep their calves with them and share the milk with us. High animal welfare and compassionate farming is at the heart of our whole business.”
Suzi Shilling, Business, Events and Tourism Officer from Romsey Town Council, who are one of the supporting partners of the event, said: “This is a great opportunity for local businesses and producers to come together with the community and enjoy a celebration of food and drink.
"Romsey is a fantastic setting for this event being an historic market town, and we welcome visitors to ‘make a day of it’ and peruse our independent and high street shops and visitor attractions. Romsey is accessible by train and buses, or you can park in eight Test Valley Borough Council car parks which are free on Sundays.”
LUC’s is an independent French café situated in the heart of Romsey who like last year are partnering up with The Greyhound, Broughton to sell their famous soufflés.
Husband and wife team Kerry and Ryan Lamb said: “We can’t wait to be back selling our speciality soufflés; you can either buy them to take home with you or we can do the cooking and you can sit and relax with a glass or two from LUC’s.
"Last year we had a great time talking to the customers and celebrating all things local, made from regional producers and traders.”
Romsey Food Fair has also thanked supporting partners, whom without their support this event would not be possible - Bongo Creative, Ace Liftaway, WDJP Media, Romsey Town Council and Test Valley Borough Council.
More information can be found here.