YORK'S fifth Festival Of Food And Drink has got off to a sizzling start with its busiest ever weekend.

What a hearty and enjoyable affair this, reflecting our national obsession with food.

In an age where we are on first name terms with TV chefs such as Delia, Jamie and Nigella, and when newspapers and magazines contain so many food stories and recipes, it is great that York has put itself so squarely on the map; or should that be menu?

With so much to see, do and taste, from visiting TV cooks such as Sophie Grigson to local chefs, this festival brightens up the city just as summer slips away.

Updated: 10:16 Monday, September 16, 2002