Celebrity chef James Martin arrived in the north-east yesterday, ahead of his appearance at today’s Taste of Grampian food and drink festival.
The former Saturday Kitchen presenter, who is one of the most recognisable faces in the gastronomic business, is the headline act for today’s event at the Thainstone Centre, Inverurie.
He will be taking part in a number of cookery demonstrations as well as walking around the festival to meet food and drink producers and north-east foodies.
The festival, which is sponsored by Specially Selected Pork, will also feature demonstrations from P&J columnist and food writer Lady Claire Macdonald and award-winning chef Brian McLeish from Aberdeen’s Moonfish Cafe.
The Press and Journal/Evening Express Motor Show, which is staged at the event, will feature a special Blast from the Past section with a range of classic cars.
Exhibitor Finnie 4×4 has also arranged for a Highland calf to be on its stand, allowing people to get a selfie with a calf.
The day climaxes with a new after-party, called the Mart Fest, which runs immediately after the main event from 5pm to 11pm.
It will feature performances from the popular Red Hot Chilli Pipers and former No 1 pop star, Sandi Thom, and will include an array of outdoor street food, live music, piano bar and an acoustic lounge.
Visitors to today’s event are advised to arrive early to avoid disappointment.
Security has been beefed up at the event in light of the Manchester terror attack last month and bag searches may lead to delays in entering the auditorium.
Entry to the main event is £5 for adults and free for children under 16. Tickets for the after party are £10 or £5 if someone has attended the main event first.
All tickets are available at the gate.