A NEW food and drink festival has hit it out of the park – being hailed a huge success.
Durham Cricket’s Chester-le-EATS event took place earlier this month (October) and organisers say it was an “overwhelming success”.
Thousands of foodie lovers turned out in the sunshine to enjoy the North East’s finest street food, as well as shop for local produce from artisan producers – providing a significant boost to businesses trading as well as to Chester-le-Street.
Attendees were also treat to the best musical talents the North East has to offer, from Jessie Dale who wowed on The Voice Kids, to PICNIC, an up and coming funky pop band.
Rob Warren, Durham Cricket’s Venue Director, said: “It was great to be involved in the launch and delivery of Chester-le-Eats. The concept was born during covid, and we wanted to create an event where the local community could come down to Seat Unique Riverside for a free event and enjoy food and drink from North East vendors, whilst listening to some amazing solo artists and groups.
“To see how well the event was attended in year one was very pleasing and it will act as a steppingstone to future years where we hope to see the event grow and become a must-attend in everybody’s calendar.”
Ythan Sale, Durham Cricket’s Events Manager, said: “It’s been such a pleasure to be a part of the first annual Chester-le-EATS. From concept to execution, it’s been so much fun producing a new, exciting event for Chester-le-Street. The weekend has been an overwhelming success and we’re already in talks to make the event bigger and better next year. We can’t thank the local community enough for getting behind this.”
On the menu was cuisine from around the world with Caribbean, Greek and Bangladeshi dishes as well as loaded fries and plenty more. Visitors were also able to pick up everything from homemade piccalilli, Geordie sausages to cupcakes, sweet treats and gin, rum and vodka all made by producers from the region.
Martin Summers, the co-founder of Clarence Spirits – which produces St Mary’s Gin, Rum and Vodka, said: “Wow, what a weekend. Events like this really help us get our brand out there on our home turf in the North East – and are a great revenue stream to businesses.” Martin, who set up the business with his wife, Julie, added: “The event was extremely well organised, had a fantastic attendance and we’ll 100% be back again next year.”
Want to take part next year?
If you're looking for more information on CLEATS 2023, we're already taking enquiries for next year's festival. From musical acts, to food and drink we're happy to keep your records on file for when we announce further details over the coming months.