RECORD numbers of visitors flocked to the Wirral Food and Drink Festival over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Thousands of people poured into the festival and enjoyed some of the best produce available from across the North West.

The two-day event at Claremont Farm, in Bebington, attracted more than 100 producers and stalls offering goods including chocolates, beers, vegetables and free-range meat.

Now in its fourth year, the event also attracted famous foodies, from the Great British Menu’s Aiden Byrne to Coronation Street’s Sean Wilson, who showcased four of his award-winning cheeses yesterday.

Sat behind a poster saying “You wouldn’t think I’d make cheese”, the television star posed for photographs with cheese and soap fans alike.

Paul Askew, of The London Carriage Works, who was demonstrating at the festival, said: “It has a real atmosphere. It is a proper festival and a proper celebration of all things food.”

The children’s area offered the chance for youngsters to challenge their tastebuds at the Chefs Adopt A School stand, as well as face painting and Punch and Judy shows.

One of the festival’s surprises was an NFU Food and Farming roadshow, which showed the connection between food and farming.

Livestock on show included ducklings, cows and sheep, such as some Hebridean sheep from Chorlton Lance Farm.

Children were able to try their hand at milking a fake cow.

Brian Mellor, of Claremont Kitchen, who hosted the chef demonstration area, said: “The chefs, whether experienced or doing it for the first time, really entered into the spirit of the whole event.”

The day also featured chef and producer demonstrations and live entertainment from folk band Reckless Elbow and traditional morris dancers.

Helen Pimbley, of Claremont Farm, said: “It has been a great way to raise awareness of the British Heart Foundation.

“We are grateful to the food festival for allowing us to be here because we have raised loads of money for a good cause.”

The beer marquee, sponsored by local brewery Betwixt, was busy all weekend.

A new cocktail bar, provided by Gusto Restaurant, also went down well with visitors.

Mike McGuigan, of Betwixt Brewery, said: “It was a tremendous festival with a fantastic atmosphere.”