MALTON’S monthly food market will have a taste of south American when it returns in March.

The market, on Saturday, March 14, will coincide with the fourth annual Yorkshire Cajun and Zydeco Festival, which will take place over the same weekend at the Milton Rooms.

With an al-fresco theme, the market stalls and cookery theatre will be outside, with Cajun chef Janice Appleton and Masterchef’s Saira Hamilton doing the demos.

Glyn Roberts, of the Cajun Festival, said: “The festival is now recognised in the UK and across Europe as one of the leading one of its kind outside the US.

“It will feature music, dancing and food from the bayous and prairies of South West Louisiana with a Mardi Gras theme, so it will be an exciting and visually stunning event.”

There will also be a parade of Mardi Gras costumes and masks through the Market Place during the food market.

“Joining forces with Malton Monthly Food Market means the food aspect of the festival can really come into focus,” said Mr Roberts.

“Janice, who has visited Louisiana recently, will show Cajun and Creole food at its best.”

Dishes from the Cajun-inspired chef will include boudin sausage, gumbo, jambalaya and other traditional recipes.

This year’s festival will feature eight bands, including the UK’s Rough Chowder and Holland’s Zydegonutz.

Tom Naylor-Leyland, director of the monthly food market, said: “The first market of 2015 will certainly get off to a colourful start.

“The Yorkshire Cajun and Zydeco Festival is one of Malton’s premier events, and it’s wonderful that we’ve been able to join forces this year.”