TOP chefs are set to descend on York’s historic Guildhall as part of this year’s Festival of Food and Drink, writes Becky Timms.

The three local celebrity chefs, Stephanie Moon of Rudding Park, Tim Bilton of The Butcher’s Arms, Holmfirth, and Andrew Pern, of the Star at Harome, will be providing entertainment with culinary competition and professional banter as they prepare their signature dishes which featured on the popular TV programme, The Great British Menu.

Stephanie said: “When I was filming the latest TV series, I thought it would be great if we could reproduce that atmosphere for food lovers back home in Yorkshire.”

Michael Hjort, director of the festival, agreed and visitors will be able to see the chefs in action on Tuesday, September 20, at 7.30pm, with Yorkshire nibbles and aperitifs to get guests into the culinary spirit.

Tim Bilton said: “I’m looking forward to getting cooking again with two great professional chefs, and also looking forward to a great evening of food and banter at one of the North’s most prestigious food festivals.”

In addition, guests will have the opportunity to glean tips from the chefs about entertaining and recipes. It is anticipated that this will be the most entertaining element of the evening, as the guests will be challenged to persuade the chefs to part with their deepest culinary secrets.

During the interval, samples of award-winning English beef from Thirsk’s Taste Tradition will be offered to guests. Following the second half, coffee and cakes will be served to round off the evening’s proceedings, which can all be enjoyed for just £25 a head.

For more information, phone Michael Hjort or Debbie Waite on 01904 635149.

• The York Festival of Food and Drink runs from September 16 to 25. For more information, and to book events, visit yorkfoodfestival.com or phonel 01904 466687.