A delightful combination of food, drink and dance proved the perfect ingredients at a renowned celebration of the Westcountry's culinary expertise in Exeter.
More than 16,000 people attended the Exeter Festival of South West Food and Drink, held at Exeter Castle and Northernhay Gardens between Friday and Sunday.
But it was unable to eclipse last year's record-breaking 10th anniversary festival when celebrity guests included actress Caroline Quentin and War Horse author Michael Morpurgo.
Festival organisers said were "delighted" by numbers this year after there was heavy showers and strong winds on two out of three days.
Derek Phillips, chairman of the festival, said: "We welcomed over 16,000 visitors to this year's Exeter Food Festival which we are delighted with given the wet weather. This shows the great support that the festival has in the region which we really appreciate. The atmosphere was fantastic, the festival is largely under cover and so the weather didn't dampen any enthusiasm for the amazing food and drink, chef demonstrations, workshops and masterclasses."
Some of the 100 exhibitors reported record takings over the event, as visitors sampled a wealth of locally-produced food from across the region.
Simon Bryon-Edmond, of Ottery St Mary pie and pasty company Chunk of Devon, described the festival as a "show-stopper". He said: "People who are really serious about their food come here, year after year. It's phenomenal for Exeter to be able to showcase itself on the regional and national stage."
Rik Pedrick, of Bideford savoury tart company Big Bellies, said: "I have had no sleep as I have been baking each night to keep up with the demand! The festival has completely exceeded my expectations."
Since 2004 the festival has established itself as a big event in Exeter and the South West, bringing together local producers, the region's best chefs, and a food-loving public.
Of the 20,000 people who visited in 2013 – 75 per cent were from outside Exeter, 40 per cent from outside Devon and 29 per cent from outside the South West.
Michael Caines, MBE, co-founder and organiser of the festival, said: "It is right that we celebrate here in Exeter all that's great and wonderful about the region."
As well as daytime activities there were After Dark parties featuring live music from local performers.
Councillor Rosie Denham, of Exeter City Council, said: "It's one of the best events that happens in the city, and it's a real highlight of both the cultural and business calendar."
The 12th Exeter Festival of South West Food and Drink will take place on 24-26 April 2015.
