HMSG’s first food festival has left a sweet taste in the mouth for members of the public and stallholders alike.

Around 350 visitors turned up to Haberdashers’ Monmouth School for Girls on Saturday, March 7 to learn new cooking skills, try locally sourced produce and watch live demonstrations.

The inaugural event, organised by Friends of HMSG, looks to become an annual tradition thanks to its success.

Wendy Rist, the group’s chairman, said: “It was a lovely day.

“We had hoped that the event would bring the School and the local community together over a shared interest, and it certainly did that.

“We’re already looking forward to the next one.”

HMSGTV presenter India interviews Mrs Wendy Rist, Chair of Friends of HMSG and organiser of the 2015 HMSG Food Festival to find out what made the event such a success.

Pupils, staff and members of the public were able to try a mouth-watering range of speciality foods, including honey, chocolate, smoked foods and fine wines.

There was also a series of demonstrations by the best local chefs, including Michelin Star-trained Simon King from Restaurant 1861 in Abergavenny and Steve Robbins from Bistro Prego, Monmouth.

Gareth Baker, of Wye Valley Apiaries, enjoyed a successful day selling honey at the festival.

He said: “It was an excellent day and we look forward any future events.

“Follow-up phone calls have been very good with leads from all sectors, other suppliers, food events in and out of county and people asking about wedding favours.

“There was also some good networking time with other producers during the guest talks.”