BAKE OFF winner Matty Edgell is among a star-studded line up at the new-look Cheshire and North Wales Food and Drink Festival.
The TV star, who triumphed in the 2023 series of the hit show, forms part of an impressive line-up of top chefs from across the worlds of television, fine dining and independent food for the Easter event.
Edgell, will appear on Saturday, with fellow TV favourite Brin Pirathapan, MasterChef winner 2024, confirmed for Friday, with one more headliner to come.
Acclaimed chef Aiden Byrne is set to appear on Sunday, alongside Neil Aitken, Head Chef at The Forge, and popular fire-cooking duo from Dragon’s Den Lumberjaxe (Jaydon & Brendon), who will appear across both Saturday and Sunday.
They will be joined by Paul Askew and Brian Mellor on Friday, Harry Elliott, Head Chef at Oddfellows, on Saturday, with further appearances from Naomi Griffiths (LittleWelshFoodie), James Ellams (The Caterer “30 Under 30” Acorn Award winner 2025), and Felix Shore of Restaurant 209.
The chef announcements come weeks after it emerged the popular food and drink festival is returning with a brand new name, new leadership and a refreshed format, ensuring the event remains a cornerstone of Chester’s Easter celebrations..
After 25 years of success, the popular Taste Cheshire (Chester) Food & Drink Festival is evolving into the Cheshire and North Wales Food and Drink Festival, under new leadership.
The event is now being directed by Steven Hesketh, local hotelier and the co-owner of Devafest, and Katie Isaacson, owner of CoolBreeze Events.
The pair stepped in after learning the festival was at risk of ending, and they are both determined to keep the much-loved tradition alive.
The 2026 festival promises several exciting changes including:
- Expanded Entertainment: A new kids’ Fun Fair, a dedicated Kid’s Zone, and a live Music Stage will offer something for all ages.
- New Dates: For the first time, the festival will run over Easter weekend, Good Friday (3rd April), Easter Saturday (4th April), and Easter Sunday (5th April).
- Return of Camping: On-site camping will be available, creating a full weekend experience for visitors.
- Improved Layout: A redesigned site plan will enhance footfall and trading areas, ensuring visitors and traders enjoy a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Steven and Katie bring extensive experience in delivering professional, community-focused events.
Commenting, Steven, who also runs the Chester Townhouse and Hotel Wrexham, said: “After 25 years, The Chester Food and Drink Festival was about to end. And the minute we heard that, it just felt wrong.
“Chester at Easter without the food and drink festival isn’t Chester. It’s one of those traditions that quietly becomes part of the city’s identity.
“You don’t realise how much it matters until someone tries to switch it off. So I’ve decided to step in, take it on, and we’re keeping the Chester Food and Drink weekend alive — with a few new twists.”
Katie added: “It’s a real privilege to pick up the baton of this iconic festival alongside Steven Hesketh FIH.
“Chester Food and Drink Festival has meant so much to this city for 25 years, and as we step into this new chapter as the Cheshire & North Wales Food & Drink Festival, we’re really looking forward to bringing our own personality to it, while keeping the heart of it exactly where it belongs: supporting local producers, celebrating brilliant hospitality, and delivering a weekend that still feels like a proper Easter tradition for everyone.”
Trader opportunities are now available to book, with consumer ticket sales also now open. The new management team is prioritising applications from existing and local traders, reflecting a commitment to community and continuity. Due to high demand, interested parties are encouraged to act quickly to secure a pitch.
For more information visit Cheshire & North Wales Food & Drink Festival website.
