They were determined to let nothing stand between them and their palates at the first A Thought For Food extravaganza.

The three-day event at Stansted House near Emsworth got going yesterday just as the heavens opened.

The soggy lawns of the stately home on the outskirts of Rowlands Castle were transformed into a village arena to show off the very best of English produce – with plenty of opportunity to learn how to cook it.

Organiser Lulu Bowerman said: 'We've got our own beer garden, village bandstand, cookery school and demonstration theatre.

'There's an incredible choice of food to try and exciting, innovative tasting and demonstrations to experience.'

She added: 'Don't worry about the weather. The demonstrations, village cookery school and tastings all take place under cover – just bring a brolly along so you can hop between the covered stalls.'

The event is showcasing 100 of the most passionate and talented producers from across the south.

They cover every food from Dorset blueberries to fresh fish and seafood caught locally in Chichester Harbour.

And drink is very much on the menu with world famous sherry producer Javier Hidalgo and Fuller's head brewer John Keeling explaining their dark arts.

National Cookery winner and Worthing schoolgirl, Serena Moriarty, was taking centre stage today. Just 14, she won the Guild of Food Writers' annual young chefs' competition in May. Serena will inspire young chefs at the event, working with TV chef Momma Cherri in her soul food demonstrations.

Today was being devoted to demonstrations by chefs from the region's best restaurants – while in the Village School the award-winning Kitchen Academy was encouraging children of all ages to try their hand at cooking in a fun environment.

The event runs from 10am to 5pm today and tomorrow.