Wells is set to host its much-anticipated food festival once again, bringing nearly 200 food and drink traders to Somerset's cathedral city this Sunday, October 8, between 10.30am and 4.30pm.

The annual Wells Food Festival is a free event, celebrating the rich culinary tapestry of Somerset and beyond, and is expected to attract around 15,000 visitors.

"This will be the festival's 11th year and I'm delighted that out of the 200 traders, we are expecting to join us, nearly all our regular stallholders are returning, including some who have been with us since the very beginning. We are also excited to welcome some really interesting newcomers, so visitors can expect to be surprised and delighted by the breadth of what's on offer!" said festival director Jon Abbott.

Festival-goers can expect an international gastronomic journey, with vendors offering food from diverse regions such as Guyana, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, South Africa, Tibet, Australia, Thailand, Mexico, and the South West.

But the Wells Food Festival is not only about indulging in delicious eats; it's also about giving back to the community. The 'Food For Thought' initiative aims to highlight how communities can come together to address issues like food poverty, food waste, high energy costs, and family struggles. Participating organisations include Help for Homeless, Somerset Community Food, the Vineyard Foodbank, the Shepton Community Fridge, The Country Food Trust, Roots Connections, and Wells City Council Allotments.

Charlie Bigham's, the festival's headline sponsor, is introducing a whimsical addition to the event with 'Charlie Bigham's Plate Spinning Championship.' "We recognise how busy life can be, there isn't always time to make a delicious dinner. We want to seek out and celebrate all those people who know how to keep the plates spinning," Charlie explained.

For those interested in wine, a special celebration of English Wine will take place on the Palace Green, where visitors can learn from vineyard representatives and enjoy a taste or two. The award-winning Fun Kitchen will offer free cookery sessions for children themed 'Oodles of Noodles,' teaching them how to make a 'posh pot noodle.'

With such a packed schedule and varied activities, including a dedicated children's zone and interactive trail, this year's Wells Food Festival promises to be a culinary delight and community experience for all ages.