Preparations are in full swing for this year's Clitheroe Food Festival on August 10, with locals encouraged to get involved.

Dubbed one of the best food festivals in the UK, the gathering held in the Clitheroe town centre promises to be bigger and better than ever.

The team is urging locals to become "festival friends", crucial components in fuelling the festivities expected to host thousands of visitors.

Councillor David Birtwhistle, chair of Ribble Valley Council’s economic development committee, emphasised the impact of volunteering.

He said: "Clitheroe Food Festival is always a recipe for a marvellous day and its success is down in part to our team of volunteers who are willing to dig in and help out where needed.

"Their main role is to make visitors welcome and help them enjoy the festival which is a brilliant showcase for our town and brings people back to Clitheroe time and time again after the big day.

"Volunteering is fun and provides valuable experience, not to mention the special offers, discounts, and freebies from our wonderful traders and exhibitors."

Following a five-day event filled with food-centric celebrations from August 5 to 9 - the "Taste Fest" - the Clitheroe Food Festival comes as the sweet finale.

Both events, organised by the Ribble Valley  Council, aim to exhibit the best of the area’s food and drink, drawing in visitors to discover and appreciate what Ribble Valley has to offer.

With the high demand from traders for a stall, venues are fully booked.

A park-and-ride scheme for visitors will be in operation between Hanson’s Cement, West Bradford Road, Edisford Road public car park, and the town centre.