Showcase of best talent at new shopping fair

Simply Cheshire takes place at Arley Hall on May 22 and 23 with demonstrations, live music, food and drink alongside a host of handpicked and unique exhibitors.

These include independent designers, producers, artists and entrepreneurs who are all based in Cheshire or originally from the county.

The event is being organised by Cheshire women Suzie Dickens, from Knutsford, and Sally Jones, from Chester, who runs her own bespoke clothing company called Silver Pink.

Beauty and quality have been as great a factor in choosing exhibitors as the all-important Cheshire link.

Suzie said: "You can go to some fairs and there's something beautiful but then there's a lot of rubbish around it.

"We want this to be a beautiful event that showcases the county.

"There are a lot of fairs around but this one is very different in that it's just for Cheshire.

"We are very proud of it, proud to be based here and every time I find new talent it makes me even prouder.

"I just want everyone in Cheshire to know what we have got on the doorstep."

Simply Cheshire will include 80 exhibitors selling clothing and accessories, unusual items for the home and garden, food and drink and stalls that fall into the category 'Other Lovely Stuff'.

Suzie said: "A lot of these people work from their homes but that doesn't mean that what they produce is rubbish.

"People are passionate about what they're selling, which is lovely, and they will be there at the event showcasing their work – a lot of them will be demonstrating what they do."

The event will feature live performances from Paul Pashley, who will sing classics from the likes of Sammy Cahn, Cole Porter, Harold Arlen, Johnny Mercer and Cy Coleman.

Simply Cheshire also supports The Joshua Tree children's charity.

Tickets for the event are £6 in advance or £8 on the door and free for children under eight. For more information visit simplycheshire.co.uk, email hello@simplycheshire.co.uk or ring 07814 008482.