Councillor Kevin Parkinson said, 'Our employees deserve credit for a record attendance at this years Food and Drink Fair at Hardwick Hall'.

A well planned and coordinated event was enjoyed by all who visited last weekend where we showcased some of the best culinary supplies over this 2 day event.  'I enjoyed meeting many visitors and producers who say the festival has become their favourite sector event nationally.'

13,500 visitors enjoyed an action packed programme of entertainment during Saturday and Sunday.

Councillor Kevin Parkinson, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said:

"Not only were there a record number of visitors, we also had more exhibitors than ever before with over 150 stalls selling produce from Derbyshire and further afield.

"As always it was a great value-for-money family event which provides a real boost for the Derbyshire economy.

"There are few other events in this region where over 150 exhibitors would have the opportunity to sell their produce to 13,500 visitors over two days.

"A lot of planning and hard work from our staff goes into ensuring the fair continues to grow and has developed a national reputation for excellence.''

Derbyshire Conservatives have adopted a private sector support policy that can be delivered at £Nil cost to Derbyshire County Council through our Council Tax Payers.  

Our objective is to reduce the amount of public money used to support both the Food and Drink Festival, and Annual Awards Dinner to zero by 2015.

''After another successful year of planning by my team, I am confident we will both meet our own target to continue to support our private sector, and saved valuable council money that can be better invested in our front line workforce''.

Councillor Kevin Parkinson added: