For the first time, Newbury Fringe Festival will celebrate food alongside art, music and dance for one day only: Sunday 27 May. Local food writer Debbie Hearn will lead the day from a specially-designed demonstration kitchen in the Food at The Fringe marquee in Victoria Park.

Festival-goers will be able to stay all day, enjoying free cookery demonstrations and tastings as well as the established Fringe favourites. After visiting a food festival in Wales, Fringe organiser Catriona Ottner realised that the craft of food making was missing from the Newbury event. With the help of a dynamic hard working volunteer committee, assistance from the Town Council and much needed sponsorship the idea has grown and grown. She explains that "There is a sheer need to feed those that flock to the festival. With this new venture we are offering the chance to browse and buy hot food, drink and local products.”

Debbie Hearn says, "I was delighted to be asked to head up Food at the Fringe. The opportunity to celebrate the rich diversity of our local food culture seems just too good to miss."

Plans for Food at The Fringe are developing at a feverish pace, and details of demonstrations and other attractions will be announced in due course. It is not too soon to put a date in the diary for an exciting, festive Fringe 2007.

The Newbury Fringe Festival is an annual community arts festival aimed at showcasing local artists, craftspeople, bands, musicians and dancers. In 2007 the festival will be presented in various venues around Newbury on Sunday 27th May, with an extra day of music in Victoria Park on Monday 28th May.

Help to paint a mural, take part in a workshop, feast on ethnic cuisine or simply enjoy the acts on offer. All activities, demonstrations and performances are provided free of charge. There’s something for everyone at the Fringe.

Debbie Hearn is a member of the Guild of Food Writers and the founder of the Big Little Fruit Campaign, which highlights heritage culinary fruit. She has lived in the area for most of her life and is a lively enthusiast for local produce.

For further details on the Newbury Fringe Festival visit www.newburyfringefestival.org  email press@newburyfringefestival.org  or call 07798 845625 or 07774 291892 with all press enquiries.