Visitors from far and wide descended upon Padstow over the past weekend to partake in the town's annual Christmas Festival.
Now in its 16th successful year, the event, named the 'UK’s Best Christmas Market' by National Geographic for 2023, offered an array of festive activities; celebrity chef demonstrations, a large Christmas market, community events and a spirited fireworks display were the order of the day.
Despite the winter weather, the public's affection for the event ensured a welcoming and warming atmosphere.
Tina Evans, the Festival’s Founder and Organiser, expressed her gratitude towards those involved in making the festival successful.
She said: “It’s hard to put into words how thankful I am to everyone who has contributed to the Padstow Christmas Festival this year - it has been truly exceptional.
"From local school children creating their lanterns for Friday night’s parade, our revered celebrity and local chefs who all donated their time for free, and the army of volunteers who we owe so much, to our market traders, our incredible sponsors, local businesses and of course, every visitor who came along, thank you!
"We simply couldn’t put on such an incredible event without you all.”
The Festival's popularity has seen it become a well-loved annual event on the national calendar.
This year’s Festival treated the public to cooking demonstrations by famous chefs, including Rick Stein, Paul Ainsworth, Valentine Warner and Michael Caines MBE, among others.
Local culinary stars also graced the festival, including Chris McClurg, Jude Kereama, Rick Toogood and Ross Geach.
Presenter Fern Cotton compered for her niece Rose Dann on the Sharp's Festival Kitchen Stage.
“We even had a Hollywood actor here in Padstow - the amazing Alistair Petrie joined Jack Stein, who cooked up recipes inspired by Alistair’s film roles," said Ms Evans.
"Another heartwarming moment was watching Alistair bring out a young apprentice from Stein’s Cookery School, praising his attitude towards the hospitality industry and world of work."
Ed Hughes, Beer Sommelier at Headline Sponsor Sharp's Brewery, spoke highly of the event.
Mr Hughes said: "Yet again, Padstow was awash with the very best of what Cornwall has to offer, and what Tina Evans and her group of volunteers have created here is magic.
"Everyone at Sharp's Brewery is so proud to be involved with Padstow Christmas Festival."
Sharp's Brewery ensured visitors had a unique gastronomic experience with their 'Solar Wave Silent Bistro'. Guests were treated to specially chosen sounds through headphones while they tasted and experienced beer and food in a new way.
Run as a not-for-profit event, the festival is funded from sponsorships.
Funds raised benefit local charities, schools, and community groups.
Tracy Hart, Volunteer Business Mentor for The Prince's Trust, partner charity of the Festival, said: "It was an incredible event and we were able to share the mission of The Prince's Trust with people from far and wide and showcase some of the young people who have successfully started their own business with the help of the Prince's Trust.
Ms Evans summed up the proud sentiments of the festival's team.
She said: We couldn’t be prouder of our Festival. What started as a tiny little event in Padstow Memorial Hall with a couple of small cookery demos, has now grown into a renowned Christmas Festival which attracts the eyes of the world, bringing in countless visitors to our town at a time when the local economy really needs the support."
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