Monmouthshire Cottages guests join Raymond Blanc at Abergavenny Food Festival

29th September 2015

The second day of Wales’ biggest food festival saw thousands of foodies arrive in the South Wales market town  in glorious sunshine to witness their favourite chefs in action.

A long-awaited event of the Abergavenny Food Festival line-up was Raymond Blanc OBE speaking with BBC Radio Four’s Sheila Dillon. Raymond Blanc OBE, President of the Sustainable Restaurant Association and Food Made Good champion which launched yesterday, shared stories of his upbringing and entertained the crowd with early lessons learnt from Maman Blanc in the sold-out event.

Raymond Blanc OBE, who uses Welsh meat in his restaurant, Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saison said: “The Abergavenny Food Festival has been magnificent. The connection between the exquisite food on offer and the beautiful setting is perfect.”

Elsewhere, the Festival programme boasted chef demonstrations with Theo Randall, expert tips from baking champion Frances Quinn, and sold out events from Wyn Ma and Cyrus Todiwala, and NOPI duo Yotam Ottolenghi and Ramael Scully.

Bringing even more variety to the day, people were treated to foraging talks and walks, the chance to cook alongside the best in the business in the Artisan Kitchen School, and a full day of free chef demonstrations in the historic Market Hall.

Brand new for this year, the Festival's meat market and craft brewery area, dedicated to celebrating the best in craft beer and cider from Wales and the borders, also proved a huge hit with festival-goers.

Monmouthshire Cottages guests were there to enjoy the talk and the brilliant sunshine, as were thousands of people. Roll on next years event.