WASTE not, want not, was the message amid the plenty, as Buckland Abbey held a successful 'Love the Flavour and Drink' festival.

Adam Symons, who is chair of Devon Authorities' waste recycling and reduction committee, was there to sample the food, but also bring a simple message.

He said: 'We throw away a staggering amount of food, so amid the plenty here, we need to be reminded that we should be buying only what we are going to eat.'

There was a 'huge temptation' to buy way too much and then throw it away. More than 50% of households threw away a lettuce every week. 'If you love food — hate waste.

'There are some superb demonstrations here of how to cook food – but also of how to use leftovers to cook up a stunning dish.

'People need to realise that it takes a lot of energy and effort to grow food, and by chucking it straight in the bin it's like leaving your car running all night in the drive.'

ABOVE: Mr Symons with master chef Peter Gorton and West Devon mayor Alison Clish-Green at the Castle Kitchens demonstration event at Buckland Abbey Great Hall.