The Nene Valley’s reputation as a food lover’s paradise was on full display this weekend as the inaugural Nene Valley Food & Drink Festival took place at Rushden Lakes. The event brought together the very best local producers, offering a tantalizing array of artisan foods, craft beverages, and street food delights.
Thousands of visitors browsed stalls laden with local cheeses, handmade chutneys, freshly baked bread, and award-winning sausages. The air was filled with the delicious aromas of wood-fired pizza and sizzling burgers, while local breweries and distilleries offered samples of their craft ales and gins. Live cooking demonstrations from local chefs drew large crowds, providing tips on how to make the most of the region’s fantastic produce.
“We wanted to create an event that truly celebrates the incredible food and drink we have right on our doorstep,” said festival director, Maria Thompson. “The quality and passion of our local producers is second to none, and it’s been wonderful to see so many people come out to support them.”
One of the most popular stalls belonged to ‘Nene Valley Cheeses’. Owner John Peterson said, “The response has been phenomenal. We’ve had people tasting our cheeses for the first time and regulars stocking up on their favourites. It’s a fantastic platform for small businesses like ours to reach a wider audience.”