A NEW food festival featuring treats from all over the world is taking place for the first time next summer.

Seaham Food Festival will take place over two days next June, when the best regional food will be showcased alongside flavours from across the world.

The seaside town hosts the new festival, run by Durham County Council, on June 8 and June 9 next year.

Councillor Carl Marshall, cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “You can’t beat a day at the coast and food is a big part of that experience - whether you are tucking into fish and chips or a delicious ice cream.

“Seaham Food Festival will offer people the chance to sample new and exciting produce, along with the traditional seaside treats we all know and love.

“It will also provide an opportunity for local food producers and retailers to reach new customers, while bringing vital revenue into the town and creating an event residents can be proud of.”

The council is inviting traders to apply to sell their produce at the event, with up to 100 spaces available.

The council is hoping the new event will enjoy the same success as Bishop Auckland Food Festival, which this year attracted 27,000 to the town and boosted the local economy by more than £530,000.

A council spokesperson said: “With its desirable location on Durham’s heritage coast, Seaham has the potential to draw in similar crowds and reap the same economic, cultural and social benefits as its sister festival.”

Food lovers can look forward to barbecues, seafood, ice cream, cocktails and alfresco dining by the sea.

The event will also feature cookery demonstrations to inspire home chefs, live music and children’s activities.

To find out more and to keep up to date with the latest news about Seaham Food Festival, visit www.seahamfoodfestival.co.uk or visit its social media sites.

Traders can also apply for a place via the festival website.