Food revolution on Hove Lawns

The beach area at The Foodies Festival on Hove Lawns

Wildebeest burgers and Sussex ales were on the menu today at the Foodies Festival on Hove Lawns, which celebrity critic Loyd Grossman hailed for its diversity.

The festival tours the UK and features live cooking shows from Michelin-starred chefs, wine tasting and stands serving up a variety of delicious cuisine.

Mr Grossman, dressed in a black suit and blue Puma plimsolls, said there was a great mix of people selling food to take home and eat on the spot. 

Loyd Grossman

"It's great to be by the sea with such knowledgeable audiences, and people in Brighton have a greater propensity to be adventurous with food. The festival shows a general revolution about food - 15 years ago this show wouldn't be here," he said.

The Wild Gathering food stand reflected Mr Grossman's views, with its llama sausages and springbok steaks providing options for the more adventurous. "The wildebeest burgers are selling fast, they're very popular'" one of the stand's chefs said.

The drinks masterclass tent featured a light-hearted but informative introduction to real ales by Melissa Cole, author of 'Let Me Tell You About Beer'.  "Beer should be fun," she declared, before inviting people to try a selection of Sussex ales while explaining how they are brewed.

The Bus Bar

Around the lawns were a tea terrace selling cream teas and snacks, a bar created from a double-decker bus and a sandy beach area complete with deckchairs.

Hundreds of people enjoyed the event in the sunshine, with live bands playing jazz music and favourite cover versions.

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Samba in the sunshine at St Ann's Well Festival

Brighton School of Samba

Samba beats were the soundtrack for a sun-drenched St Ann's Well Gardens Spring Festival today, which united the Seven Dials community with its eclectic mix of entertainment.

The annual event is run by The Friends of St Ann's Well Gardens charity, which works with Brighton and Hove City Council to protect the gardens. The free festival is laid on to raise money for park maintenance from donations.

Linda Austin, secretary of the charity, believes visitor numbers topped last year's turnout of 4000 people. "It's a great place to meet friends and there's a choice of events for all the family," she said.

A dancer from Brighton School of Samba urges the crowd to join in

On the main green, Brighton School of Samba served up an infectious blend of drums, whistles and dancing with performances throughout the day. Delighted crowd members were invited to join in with the party and dance with the group.

Michelle Palmer, who was in the crowd, said, "They were absolutely brilliant, it makes you feel so happy when everyone gets involved."

Grant Capsopoulos said, "I don't know much about Samba but that was great, they had amazing energy."

Ellen and The Echo

The main stage featured a variety of music acts, and among the many highlights was soul band Ellen and The Echo. Their laid-back sound fitted the occasion, and there was more than a touch of Amy Winehouse about Dublin-born singer Ellen Cosgrove's lilting vocals.

The Candy Queens

Around the park were stands selling hand-made clothes, jewellery and cakes, while the Candy Queens boasted the biggest queues at their candy floss stall. "We're super flossing mad," one of the Candy Queens said.

Ms Austin said, "We want to offer people a great day, and I feel like we've done that."