Red-hot chilli festival comes to Melton

Paul Murrell from Chilli Pepper Pete's PHOTO: Tim Williams

There were plenty of spicy surprises awaiting foodies who went to the third Melton Mowbray Chilli Festival hosted by Chilli Fest UK.

Attendees were treated to a range of fiery delights including chilli sauces, chilli jams and chilli beer at Brooksby Melton College on Saturday.

Chilli producers from across the country descended on the town for the third occasion, this time indoors for the first time, providing residents with the chance to taste chilli of all varieties from mild to eye-wateringly hot.

Shelagh Core, Melton BID manager, said: “This was the first time we had brought the event indoors and it worked well. There was a great variety of traders, some old and some new.

Looking for some hot stuff PHOTO: Tim Williams

“Despite the footfall being slightly down, business was booming throughout the day and the festival was perfect for true chilli lovers.”

Exhibitors included Naga Masala, Pimento, Mabs Sauces, Peri Peri Naga Dip, Sonny Artist, Mr Fitzpatrick, MKS Olives, Fallen Angel, Brockleby Pies, Chilli Pepper Pete, Hoppy Family Brewery, Jethro Sauces and Aunty Jee.

Vegans and vegetarians were also well catered for with a range of food products to suit their palates.

Plans for the festival to return next year are already being made, with organisers looking at February 29 as a possibility.