CHESHIRE'S reputation as a fine dining destination will be celebrated when chefs from the town’s top restaurants headline at Foodies Festival Tatton.

Head chef Joe Liptrot of The Cottons Hotel, pastry chef Connie Oriolo of The Courthouse and Executive Chef Mark Fletcher from The Mere Golf and Spa will share their Christmas cookery tips over the weekend, November 16 to 18.

The talented trio will demonstrate their skills in the Chefs Theatre as part of an action-packed weekend on a festive theme.

Also appearing will be MasterChef winner Kenny Tutt, Great British Menu winner Adam Reid of The French in Manchester and Aiden Byrne of the city’s new 20 Stories Restaurant.

Making a popular return will be Wholefood Warrior Eva Humphries and Burlesque Baker Charlotte White.

Joe will rustle up his alternative to a traditional Christmas turkey – ox cheek with all the trimmings.

Dessert guru Connie will share her recipe for a chocolate and Grand Marnier Yule log while Mark will demonstrate how to make a turkey ballotine.

“It’s my second Christmas at the festival and I’m really looking forward to it. It has a great vibe,” said Joe.

“My presentation is based round one of my favourite dishes on the new winter menu at The Cottons. It will be a pleasure to demonstrate it to food-lovers.”

Attractions also include the ever-popular Gin Alley and Champagne Ski Bar as well as award-winning treats in Pudding Hall and an artisan street market with more than 100 stalls selling food and gifts.

Workshops will offer a chance to decorate Christmas cupcakes and make orange garlands with fragrant botanicals and edible Christmas gifts.

Champagne masterclasses, chocolate tasting and Christmas cocktail workshops are sure to go down well.

Budding young chefs can make festive treats in the Elf’s Cookery School and the whole family can enjoy a music stage with choirs singing Christmas carols.

More than 15,000 people are expected to enjoy the weekend and tickets are selling well.

Knutsford Town Council is delighted to welcome the festival back to town as it plans another Taste Knutsford event offering visitors a chance to sample food around local restaurants.

A spokesman said: “We’re very proud of Knutsford’s reputation for fine food and the festival provides a great showcase for our local chefs.

“It supports the local economy by drawing crowds of foodies to town and helps showcase other local businesses.”

Festival director Sue Hitchen added: “Cheshire offers incredible choice to restaurant-goers and Knutsford is one of the top destinations.

“We love it there and are very proud to be one of the biggest events on the local social calendar.

“We look forward to seeing everyone at beautiful Tatton Park.”

For more information and tickets, including VIP entrance, visit foodiesfestival.com