Weekend serves up sizzling treat

AS temperatures soared, appetites were well and truly satisfied as crowds tucked into a double helping of food, drink and entertainment at Rochdale’s Street Eat festival.

The event, at Town Hall Square, attracted well over 4,000 people over the two days.

Visitors basked in the sunshine while having their tastebuds tickled and their thirst quenched - and enjoying live music and entertainment.

The event, organised by Rochdale Town Centre Management and supported by Rochdale council, was sponsored by building and construction company Willmott Dixon.

It showcased the town’s best food and drink establishments, with dozens of mouth-watering dishes including Spanish, Italian, English, Chinese and American.

There were fun activities and rides for children and guest appearances by Captain America and Spiderman.

As well as a tasty menu of fine food, there were bars and live music on stage hosted by Revolution 96.2, with a full line-up of live music featuring local acts including The Funky Two Hats, Noel Fraser, Between the Vines, Indigo Sunset, Rochdale Music Service and more.

Paul Ambrose, from Rochdale Town Centre Management, said: “Street Eat showcased the fantastic food and drink that Rochdale town centre offers and it brought many people back into town who hadn’t visited for a while. We heard many comments from people who were really impressed with the progress that’s been made here, and I hope the event will encourage locals and visitors from across the region to return. Over 7,000 servings were dished up and it was a great weekend enjoyed by people of all ages.”

Traders included La Mancha, Cocka Doodle Moo, The Clock Tower Dining Room, Vicolo de Vino, The Flying Horse Hotel, The Wellington, The Art Cafe and The Riverside Restaurant.

Rochdale council’s neighbourhoods, community and culture chief Janet Emsley said: “It was very busy with a fabulous atmosphere, showing off our town’s diverse food and drink offer and evening economy scene.

“You don’t need to wait until Street Eat returns. These fantastic restaurants and bars are open every day, so do support them and get a table booked soon.”

Daniel O’Donnell, principal surveyor at sponsor Willmott Dixon added: “We were very pleased to have been able to sponsor and support Street Eat.

“Members of our team attended, tried some delicious food and were very impressed.”

●●Pictures by Alan Hamer