FOOD lovers flocked to the Ribble Valley for the annual North West Fine Food Lovers Festival which featured TV chef James Martin.

The event, at Stonyhurst College, Hurst Green, showcased the best of regional produce and the wealth of homegrown quality food that is available on people's doorsteps.

Festival organiser Sandra Allwood, said: "It's been fantastic. It encourages people to think about buying local food which is fresher than from the supermarket and to support local producers.

"They are not aware of the wealth of fantastic food available in the region."

The Stonyhurst College venue also contributed to the experience.

"When people come round the corner it's breathtaking and they come back to Stonyhurst after the event."

The festival offered people a large range of culinary delights including goat and ostrich meat, regional cheeses, fudge and traditionally made drinks such as dandelion and burdock.