THOUSANDS of food lovers are expected to flock to Alcester for its 7th food festival, which is taking place on Saturday, October 18.

More than 100 stalls will fill the High Street and Church Street selling a huge range of locally produced products including a selection of free range turkey or duck for Christmas, hand smoked meats, cakes, breads and cheeses.

The event will launch The Great Alcester Cake Off where participants will create masterpieces with the theme of A Winter Cake.

Entries can be taken to Cafe 26 in Alcester High Street by 10am on the day of the festival. Judging will take place at 1pm.

To apply visit the cafe for an application form which can be collected from the counter or emailed. Competitors can also request a form by emailing coffee26@email.com.

A selection of treats suitable for vegetarians and those with gluten allergies will also be on offer.

Visitors can enjoy a meal from local produce followed by hand-made chocolates and desserts.

Local beers mulled ciders and range of English wine will also be on available.

Around 20,000 visitors attended the last food festival event which took place in May.

Due to high attendance at this event, visitors will be able to use a free park-and-ride facility.

The festival is organised by a voluntary committee of six people, supported by many other volunteers in Alcester as the festival day approaches.

Two fetes, held in May and October, now take place each year to cater for the event's ever-growing popularity.