THE 21st York Food and Drink Festival took off yesterday with eager crowds already browsing the 130 stands laden with fresh produce from independent and larger producers and street food cafes.

This year the annual fixture has several new features including branding with the message Independent and Proud.

The festival, which runs until October 1, is also taking part in Macmillan Cancer Support’s Coffee Morning every day, with cakes provided by the event’s many great bakers.

Festival director Michael Hjort said: “We went round to buy cakes from stalls to go with the coffee and was amazed when they all donated them free for the cause. It was heartwarming. And Sorrells Coffee is donating 25 per cent of its profits to Macmillan.

“We have had a great opening day and we expect it to be much busier over the weekend. We look forward to welcoming local families and visitors.”

They will be able to learn practical skills such as how to make chocolates, bread or pasta at a new food hub in St Sampson’s Square, as well as cookery classes for children and adults.

Mr Hjort said that for the first time, the hub would also double as a pop-up restaurant at night, run by restaurants including the Star Inn the City and Meltons.

This represents the heart of the festival’s programme, playing host to a market of small food producers on the two weekends and being taken over by 750 primary school children enjoying cookery sessions during the week.

Mr Hjort said: “Among the top chefs attending are Michelin Stars winners like Andrew Pern, Tommy Banks, and James Mackenzie.”

Festival-goers will also be able to explore York through a taste trail of local establishments, and children will be able to make chocolate lollipops or explore a recipe trail through the city.

Mr Hjort added that the festival is a not-for-profit organisation that aims to support independent food producers and bring people to the city.

“We have a loyal local following among York people and are building up a local clientele who take stands even though they have a commercial premises."

Among them is Phil Clayton, of Haxby Bakery, who said: “We have been coming for six years and it works for us. It’s good to see local producers at the festival.”

Entrance to the festival is free but tickets for a variety of events are on sale.

The bars and entertainment tent are open to 9pm every night with the return of York’s Little Festival of Live Music with a programme starting at 5pm.

The festival centres in Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square but new added sites are the Shambles Kitchen and stalls will spill into Fossgate and Walmgate on both Saturdays.

Go to yorkfoodfestival.com.