THE Bishop Auckland food festival is set to make its 15th return to the historic town next year.

The 2020 festival, which will be held on Saturday 18 and Sunday, April 19, will bring more tasty treats, culinary inspiration and exciting street food inspired by international cuisines., and will also see celebrity chefs make an appearance.

Other activities will include live music, children’s entertainment and interactive cookery demonstrations.

After his visit BBC MasterChef co-presenter Gregg Wallace described Bishop Auckland as “one of the nicest, friendliest places I’ve been”.

In April earlier this year, the festival attracted more than 29,000 people, and more than 90 per cent of those visitors rated the festival as good or very good.

The festival has also boosted the takings of local businesses and of more than 150 traders.

Cllr Joy Allen, Cabinet member for transformation, culture and tourism at Durham County Council, said: “Bishop Auckland Food Festival’s success means it is now a key event on the foodie calendar and shines a well-deserved spotlight on the region’s gastronomic heroes.

“The festival brings vital income into Bishop Auckland and has helped develop County Durham’s reputation as a culinary destination.”