THE 2017 Hampshire Food Festival got off to an auspicious start when it was launched by a former Masterchef winner and Hampshire resident.

Jane Devonshire – 2016 winner of the hit cooking show – introduced this year’s programme of events with a picnic in the grounds of 2017 sponsors, mineral water firm Hildon Ltd, at Broughton.

Guests were treated to a hamper of local goodies from producers Lyburn Cheese, Jake’s Artisan Foods, Hampshire Cheese, Danebury Vineyard, Parsonage Farm, Two Hoots Cheese, Cottonworth Vineyard, Tatchbury Farm, Fjordling, Chocolate Craft, Appetite Kitchen and Catch.

During lunch, guests had the opportunity to meet Jane, who will be supporting Ark Cancer Charity with two pop-up events at The Myers Touch in Winchester.

As previously reported, the talented chef and mum-of-four recently revealed her ten-year battle with cancer. But calling herself “one of the lucky ones” she has now been in remission for more than three years.

Now in its 17th year, this edition of the Hampshire Food Festival includes over 60 events with farm, distillery, vineyard and brewery tours, opportunities to learn and explore with local producers, pop-up dining events and fairs and fêtes.

With events like a walk amongst the vines, ‘meeting the buffalo’, and the chance to try your hand at charcuterie making, visitors will also be able to see lavender fields and dine in pop-up restaurants.

Tracy Nash, commercial manager of Hampshire Fare commented: “This year’s programme of events is divided into ‘Taste’, ‘Discover’, ‘Learn’, ‘Fêtes, fairs and festivals’ and ‘Stay’. There are so many talented producers bringing flavour to our county, July is the time to get out and discover the faces behind our food.”

Sponsors Hildon Ltd have recently been granted the Royal Warrant of Appointment to The Queen.