VOLUNTEERS are starting preparations on one of Wirral’s biggest events of the year – the Food and Drink Festival.

Back for its fourth year running, previous festivals have exceeded all expectations, attracting thousands of visitors from across the region.

As in previous years, the festival will be held over the August Bank Holiday at Claremont Farm, Spital, and this year the theme is “Food Matters”. The NFU will be bringing their roadshow to the farm so visitors can learn more about farming and food.

Andrew Pimbley, who hosts the event on his family’s farm, said: “The festival has proved more successful year after year and this time we really want to press the message home – Food Matters. The NW has the best produce in the UK and we want to celebrate this.”

Last year, around 27,000 visitors enjoyed two rare days of 2008 summer sunshine, and there were more than 100 stalls, along with restaurant food to sample, regional beers and chefs’ demonstrations and entertainment.

The festival is supported by Wirral Council, Wirral Farmers’ Market, as well as local charity fundraising group, Wirral Lions.