THERE were no chips, burgers or hot dogs for sale at the Eastleigh Chilli Fiesta.

Only an event that celebrates all things chilli.

The temperatures suitably soared under glorious sunshine for much of the free event on Saturday at Leigh Road Recreation Ground with organisers estimating 2,000 people attended.

There was no junk food – instead, masses of chilli-related produce: sauces, cooking sauces, pickles, chutneys, jams, cocktails and beer.

Top chefs such as Aunty Jee served up delicious concoctions for the passers-by.

The bravest nibbled on some of the hottest chillies around while others posed with models of two-foot long chillies.

Organiser Alexander Mustang, of Chilli fest UK, a non-profit-making organisation, said: “It was brilliant, awesome. We had more people than last year. We had a superb selection of the best chilli producers in the country. The people of Eastleigh were brilliant, supporting the event.

“The British public have a diverse palate. They want to explore new horizons in spicy food. You won’t find burgers and hot dogs at our event. That is not what we are about.”

This is the third time the event has been held in Eastleigh and Mr Mustang said it would definitely return next year.

For more information, see chilli_festival on twitter and www.chillifest.net.