ORGANISERS of the Moretonhampstead Festival of Food, Drink and the Arts are encouraging potential exhibitors to get in touch. having already booked 30 stalls to take part in this year's event.

The festival takes place on Saturday March 10, enjoying its fourth outing. It is the first of the year's food festivals, a celebration of the coming of spring in the heart of Moretonhampstead. 

Festival organiser and owner of Posh Pig Promotions Bob Small said: 'We saw a record attendance at last year's festival, and we're expecting an even bigger turn out for 2012, so we are encouraging exhibitiors to get in early if they want to be sure of securing a slot.

'This year we are looking to sign up as wide a variety of participants as possible so that we can demonstrate the huge diversity of South West suppliers and producers as well as hoteliers and craftspeople.

'There is space for everyone from the smallest outfit to the biggest talent.'

More than 80 food and drink exhibitors and 20 artists took part in the 2011 event with 5,000 visitors enjoying the festivities. 

Applications from exhibitors are still welcome but must be received by January 31.  For more information visit the website http://www.moretonfestival.com">www.moretonfestival.com