Appetites build for Emsworth Food Fortnight

Emsworth’s food fortnight has become renowned in the area – winning a top national award in its first year and coming runner-up last year.

Now as the event approaches in September, organisers hope they will put the village on the map once more.

Lulu Bowerman, one of the organisers, said: ‘We’re building on it so it’s becoming more of an attraction to people in other areas.

‘It puts Emsworth on the map not just in Havant but in Southampton, Chichester and beyond.

The event – which piggybacks on British Food Fortnight – kicks off for its third year on September 17.

It aims to celebrate what Emsworth’s independent food merchants have on offer.

Organiser Alistair Gibson, from Emsworth Business Association, said small businesses have put on extra events this year – a third more than last year.

He said he was ‘optimistic’ for the fortnight’s future following the expansion.

Alistair said: ‘We are actively encouraging Emsworth businesses, whether they’re part of the association or not, to get involved.

‘Even some of the charity shops are getting involved by displaying cookery books in their windows.’

Nearly 60 events punctuate the fortnight’s schedule across 10 venues – from a pork pie masterclass at Tuppenny Barn on September 23, to a big seafood lunch on Emsworth Quay on September 25.

Budding chefs from South Downs College, Highbury College and Fareham College will also be taking over the Brookfield Hotel’s kitchens.

Sue Treagust, owner of H H Treagust & Sons butchers, is offering special discounts.

Sue said: ‘We need all these local events that can showcase the high street. What they can offer is really beneficial.’

Beacon Food Bank and homeless charity Stonepillow are set to benefit from cash raised.

See emsworthbritishfoodfortnight.co.uk