Thousands of foodies descend on South Tyneside park for huge event

Food and a drink-lovers descended on a sun-kissed Bents Park today, which was full to bursting with tasty treats.

The Proper Food and Drink Festival, which runs until Monday, features 60 of the finest artisan food producers selling some of the best locally-made food.

Stall after stall provided mouth-watering cuisine from all four corners of the globe, with real ales and ciders available from Wylam Brewery, along with a wine and cocktail bar.

And there was an everlasting queue snaking its way into the Pimm's tent to help quench people's thirst on what was a glorious summer's day.

Kids' inflatables, games and entertainment completed the atmosphere in the huge outdoor picnic area.

Michelle Dixon, a head teacher from South Shields, went along with her partner Michael Effard, 48, a factory worker.

Her daughters Sam, 15, and 10-year-old Lily joined them for a day of family fun.

Lily said she was looking forward to getting some fudge and added about the event: "It's really good."

Michelle said: "We thought we'd come down for something different to eat, to see what's available.

"There 's lots of different things so can't decide what we want now.

"It's a gorgeous day and I really like the little bar area with hay bales to sit on."

Rachel Atkinson, 31, had travelled to the festival from Gateshead with nine-year-old daughter Pearl.

She said: "It's much bigger than I thought it would be and the weather has turned out great.

"We've had crepes and Pearl had a burger, both were very tasty. Pearl loved the people chicken and egg costumes and she had her picture taken with them."