CELEBRITY chef Jean Christophe Novelli and George McIvor, chairman of the Masterchefs of Great Britain, have opened the first Shetland Food Festival.
The event is taking place in the Clickimin Centre at Lerwick and runs until Sunday.
During Friday night’s launch, both chefs gave live cookery demonstrations using local produce from Shetland. Mr Novelli said: “Shetland is well known for producing exceptional lamb, beef, fish and shellfish, and I’m really looking forward to sampling it all.
“I always use produce that’s seasonal and local, so the timing of the festival provides the best opportunity for me to cook with the best of what’s available.”
French chef Mr Novelli came to Britain at the age of 22. He earned several Michelin stars and by the late 1990s, dividing his time between seven restaurants in London, France and South Africa.
He runs a cookery school and owns two gastropubs, as well as making regular television appearances.
Mr McIvor, who has more than 30 years’ experience in the food and hospitality industry, has recently established his own culinary consultancy.
The festival is being organised by Shetland Island Council’s economic development unit and is supported by EventScotland.
Other highlights will include a farmers’ market, wine and beer tasting, traditional Shetland recipes and talks about cheese making, beekeeping, organic growing and the local fishing industry.
For a full timetable of events visit www.shetland foodfestival.co.uk