Italian music, aromas and language filled the air in Castle Street on Friday when the Italia in Piazza food market visited Farnham.

The Italian food market was organised by Farnham Town Council to mark the start of Feast of Food. The Feast is a two week celebration of the national and international food experiences that can be enjoyed in Farnham and is sponsored by a number of local businesses including BBS Ltd who supply catering equipment and spares.

The colourful market stalls that partially lined one side of Castle Street, tempted browsing members of the public with authentic Italian food. Shoppers could choose from several types of genuine Italian pasta; bowls of fresh olives; a range of cheeses and beautifully presented torrone.

Councillor Jill Hargreaves, Lead Member for Tourism and Events attended the market and said: “I hosted Farnham Town Council’s information tent and was genuinely impressed by the number of people who said how much they liked the market. The food on offer was delicious and was very popular with shoppers. I do hope the Market will return to Farnham in the not too distant future.”

The Italian Market was followed by the start of The Food Fortnight, which is when 14 participating pubs and restaurants in and around Farnham offer customers a special, three-course menu.

Feast of Food’s grand finale will take place on Saturday 27 September when over 70 stalls selling food and food-related items will fill Castle Street. Food demonstrations will take place throughout the day from talented local chefs. The audience will be given an insight into the art of decorating cupcakes, making great brunch dishes or putting together a tasty Thai dish.

See the Food Festival web pages for details about who is taking part in The Food Fortnight and the menus on offer together with a programme detailing what is happening and the stallholders who will be appearing at the Feast of Food.