Promoters of a popular East Lancs foodie fiesta say they have broken their visitors' record in 2024.

Organisers of Clitheroe Food Festival say 25,000 people descended on the Ribble Valley town for the day-long event at the weekend.

Some producers were reporting sellouts by lunchtime and having to send out for fresh stock as the gathering, which came after a week-long Taste Fest at venues around the borough, took hold.

Increased footfall and sales are also said to have been enjoyed by regular town centre traders - including dozens of first-time visitors to Clitheroe.

Cllr David Birtwhistle, chairman of Ribble Valley Council’s economic development committee, said: “This year’s Clitheroe Food Festival attracted around 5,000 more food enthusiasts than in recent years, which is a phenomenal achievement.

"Festivalgoers from across the region enjoyed top-quality artisan produce, a feast of family entertainment and a warm Ribble Valley welcome.

“We are proud to have created what has become one of the UK’s premiere food festivals and are already receiving expressions of interest for next year’s event.”

Nicola Hopkins, the borough's director of economic development and planning, added: “Our festival team worked behind the scenes for many months to bring this fantastic event to fruition and I would like to thank them for their sterling efforts.

“We also received support from our festival volunteers, particularly Clitheroe Rotary and Whalley Lions, which is much appreciated.

“This year’s festival smashed all records and once again shows the ability of a small authority to punch way above its weight in delivering major projects that produce significant outcomes for residents, visitors and businesses.”

The festival, sponsored by the Compleat Food Group, Fort Vale Engineering and Holmes Mill, showcased some of the world’s best food and drink – from wild game and Biltong beef to cheese truckles and curry kits – from around 100 exhibitors.

For the second year the Taste Fest, which ran last week, was a success, introducing participants to pizza-making, farm visits, guided walks and distillery tours.