Families were invited to combine a sensory experience and feel good factor at the Taste of the Tamar Food and Craft Festival held at Morwellham Quay.

All ages had something of interest to catch their eye and tease their tastebuds, while raising a smile and funds for the Children's Hospice South West's Precious Lives Appeal to build a children's hospice for Plymouth and Cornwall.

Castles Kitchens and Peter Gorton organised 'The Taste of the Tamar Challenge', in which local schools had the opportunity to work with top chefs —Peter and Jason Hornbuckle competed against each other in a Ready, Steady, Cook-style competition to create the best dish themed around Morwellham Quay using local ingredients.

Judging was by BBC Radio Devon's Gordon Sparks and round one's teams were from Bere Alston Primary and Milton Abbot Schools. The result was a well-deserved draw.

Both teams received a 'Chef's Prize' of a visit to Lewtrenchard Manor, managed by chef/patron Jason Hornbuckle, who gave them a tour around the hotel, kitchens and gardens.

Each team was also presented with a specially-made wooden trophy and individual certificates.

The presentation at Bere Alston Primary was to the team of Celine Conley, Will Hampson, Courtenay Bradbury and Holly Dunn.

Milton Abbot School's presentation was to Emma Hunt, Daniel Willis, Thea Harland and Helen Hunt.

Tami Skelton of Castles Kitchens, the main organiser of the festival, said: 'It was a fantastic weekend and everybody had a great time.

'It was lovely to see the genuine smiles on the children's faces. The atmosphere was amazing and we are already planning next year's bigger and better event which will be held on June 18 to 20 2010.'