A NEW event is set to showcase the best that Cheshire has to offer this spring.

Simply Cheshire will feature handpicked independent designers, producers, artists and entrepreneurs based in Cheshire or originally from the county.

The fair, which takes place at Arley Hall on May 22 and 23, will include demonstrations, live music, food and drink.

Knutsford mum Suzie Dickens, one of the organisers, said: "We decided we wanted to showcase the talent that's in Cheshire but at a certain level of quality and we know each stall is unique.

"It's about showing all this talent that people don't know is on their doorstep.

"I've known it's been here but have really enjoyed finding it."

The shopping fair will feature more than 80 exhibitors, including established producers and new.

Simply Cheshire also supports Northwich children's charity The Joshua Tree, which has launched its Dig Deep campaign to raise £250,000 needed to build a support centre for families of children with cancer.

Suzie, whose son is a pupil at The Grange School, in Hartford, said: "We chose The Joshua Tree because they're a Cheshire charity and the money they raise will be spent in Cheshire.

"They do some amazing work and give so much support to families, they've also launched their Dig Deep campaign and we want to support that.

"It's not just about raising money but about promoting them and getting the word out about them."

Tickets for the event are £6 in advance or £8 on the door and free for children under eight.

Guardian readers can get 10 per cent off that standard advance ticket price by using the early bird code guardebd10 until March 14.

For more information visit simplycheshire.co.uk, email hello@simplycheshire.co.uk or ring 07814 008482.