TAVISTOCK Food Festival went 'exceptionally well ', according to organiser Jeffrey Stackhouse.

For the past two years the festival has had to contend with rain, with waterfalls from the marquees two years ago, but in extreme contrast the weather this year was so fine there were concerns that people would head to the beach instead.

However, although numbers were slightly down, Mr Stackhouse said several thousand visitors attended on 'two of the most glorious summer days we have had this year'.

'Exhibitors told us that with the economic climate and weather they thought the festival had done very well. It was very gently busy throughout the weekend,' he said.

'One thing we are noted for is the quality of organisation and the friendly and welcoming atmosphere.'

After a series of disastrous shows elsewhere this summer, exhibitors had said this was one of the best of the year.

There were 89 exhibitors, of whom 15 came from West Devon.

The remainder came from the West Country from Bristol to Penzance. Particularly successful, said Mr Stackhouse, had been Healey's Cider Farm from Cornwall, who were introducing their new pear cider.

Visitors were able to sample food ranging from chocolate, wine, cordials and Thai food to bread, cheese, sausages and preservatives.

Demonstrations by celebrity chefs in the 200-seater demonstration theatre were popular and included Peter Gorton from The Horn of Plenty, Michael Caines from Gidleigh Park, Jason Hornbuckle from Lewtrenchard Manor and the Tanner brothers from Plymouth.

There were also children's demonstrations, a farmer's market and hog roasts. Children's Hospice South West held a Moonlight Supper on the Saturday evening.

Mr Stackhouse thanked everyone who had helped to make the festival such a success, including sponsor John Taylor from Wessex Heritage, Peter Gorton for arranging the demonstrations, Ken Ellis for providing the video and sound systems, the Rotary Clubs of Tavistock and Yelverton for stewarding, Tavistock Lions and Round Table for organising the park and ride and Tavistock police.

Next year's festival will be on July 25 and 26.