First ever Lanchester food week to take place in half term

Lanchester Food Week is set to showcase the village's thriving food scene from October 25 to November 2.

Founder and podcast host Barrie McDermid has organised Lanchester's first ever food week offering discounts to restaurant-goers (Image: BARRIE MCDERMID)

Local organiser Barrie McDermid said the idea came from a love of the village’s growing food offer.

He said: “I very rarely have to leave the village if I want to eat out, and I just thought we should all work together to help promotions.

"This is the first ever one. I love the village and only a couple years ago Front Street shops were shut and there wasn't much in the village but it has really turned around again.

"This is to encourage people in the village and outside to come and enjoy the hidden little treasure we have to see what it has to offer. It has a lovely community spirit and its a lovely village to be a part of.”

Founder and podcast host Barrie McDermid has organised Lanchester's first ever food week offering discounts to restaurant-goers (Image: BARRIE MCDERMID)

Throughout the week, local favourites are rolling out special offers. Grandpa’s Fish Bar will serve mini fish and chips in a cone for £5, while the Gallery Coffee Shop is offering a free toastie or panini for one child with every adult lunchtime special.

Ravello's Italian Coffee Shop will hand out a free mini cannoli with every coffee, iced coffee or tea, whether sit-in or takeaway.

Yanni’s Greek Restaurant is giving away free kids’ drinks for diners and free takeaway drinks with orders over £10.

A sign in the village advertising the food week paid for by the Parish council (Image: BARRIE MCDERMID)

The Old Ice Cream Shop will run Halloween-themed treats, including Haunted Hot Chocolate, I-scream Shakes and Wicked Sundaes for £3 each, with a spooky late-night opening on Halloween.

Golden Valley Chinese Takeaway is offering a salt and chilli pepper box meal for £12.90, Crinnions is tempting diners with 20% off food and a chance to gamble for a bigger discount, and Lanchester Country Basket will offer fruit and veg boxes at cost to showcase local produce.

The Methodist Church is also joining in, acting as a drop-off point for Stanley Food Bank from October 25 to November 1, and hosting a series of community events including charity coffee mornings, a themed Sunday service, and a Tuesday lunch club.

Visitors are encouraged to enjoy their food outdoors in the village’s community garden, which will be open throughout the week.

Barrie, who also hosts the weekly podcast About Small Businesses, said the event is a perfect way to bring people together during half-term and shine a spotlight on Lanchester’s independent traders.