It’s all in good taste at East Garston Food Fair

By Barney Goodall

'Through primrose tufts, in that green bower, The periwinkle trailed its wreaths; And 'tis my faith that every flower Enjoys the air it breathes.'

Or so you might find if you take a trip over to the East Garston Food Fair this month. Indeed, Wordsworth himself would be tempted to write an entire series of overtly pastoral poetry if he were to experience the fair himself.

In case you didn’t know East Garston is a beautiful picturesque village near Hungerford in West Berkshire and if you’re a foodie it’s the place to be on July 21st.

From 11.30 until 3.30pm East Garston will display an orgy of floral delights, the likes of which have yet to be experienced on this earth. Prepare your pastoral palette for the produce and flower show, in which some of the finest local marrows, carrots, aubergines, orchids, wisteria, and tulips will make colourful appearances. The competition is open to everyone, and entry forms are easily downloadable from http://www.east-garston.com.

This display of home grown, organic decadence will be judged by none other than Somerset's own Charles Dowding, champion of the 'NO DIG' method of garden maintenance. Mr Dowding will introduce us to his 'revolutionary' methods, and help garden lovers get the most out of their soil.

Not only can you feast your eyes on these marvels of modern gardening, but you'll also have the opportunity to purchase your own in a frenzy of horticultural hedonism.

The local food and drink market will be in session during the fair, in which the latest and greatest in local soil based commodities will be available for your pleasure.

An incredible total of 25 independent market stalls are said to be functioning with an amazing selection of local produce on offer including pieces of swine, bovine, wine, fresh bread, and much more.

Not only this but a grandiose barbecue run by Guy Manning, expert chef from the Red Lion Free-house in East Chisenbury, will be sizzling with the flesh of various dead animals. Mr Manning is renowned for the unimpeachable quality of his homemade burgers and sausages, and will also be serving local delicacies.

Ales, eels, Pimms, strawberries, more-berries are just some of the possibilities at East Garston's Food Fair. It is free entry and any money raised will go to the Allotment Association and other village voluntary groups. Sounds like a day to remember.