Marlow's first Pub in the Park was a chance to show off the “lovely” town to visitors from all over the country, says Tom Kerridge. 

His plans for the festival were first announced in the Marlow Free Press in October last year, after an interview with Tom revealed that he thought the town was “crying out” for a festival that would celebrate the best chefs the county has to offer.

And with just shy of 16,000 people welcomed to Higginson Park across the weekend, the event did not disappoint.

Speaking in the aftermath of the huge event, the celebrity chef, who lives in the town, says the gastro-music festival was “incredible”.

He said: “What an incredible, amazing weekend. The vibe was fantastic, the food was stunning, the music outstanding, but above all else, the people of Marlow made the whole event feel very special. 

“It showed off our lovely town to all our visitors and the chefs from all over the country.”

A staggering 45,000 dishes were served up by ten of the UK's most successful chefs. 

Chefs from pubs and restaurants as far-flung as Edinburgh and Padstow presented an array of signature dishes in a bid to give revellers a taste of what is on offer at their critically-acclaimed eateries - including Tom Kerridge’s own Hand and Flowers and The Coach. 

With well-known TV chefs like Tom Kitchin, Angela Hartnett and Bake Off winner,Candice Brown taking to the stage, the likes of Russell Brand, Alex Jones and Chris Evans were among the crowds of delighted festival-goers enjoying the show. 

After sampling the culinary delights cooked up by the chefs, Tom Odell, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, James Morrison, Fun Lovin’ Criminals and 10cc led the musical entertainment with electric performances. 

As the weather got warmer, hearts melted after Garry Christian, from The Christians, joked that he wanted an ice-cream to cool himself down. 

An eager 15-year-old member of the audience ran straight off to retrieve one for the star. 

The riverside setting was fully taken advantage of by festival-goers, who enjoyed a selection of free boat rides, on-board wine tastings and VIP water taxis - with Huey from The Fun Lovin’ Criminals last seen sailing off into the sunset after their energetic set on Saturday evening. 

Organisers say they hope the festival will return to the town next year following the "great success" of this year's event. 

Chris Hughes, CEO of event planning company Brand Events, thanked the residents of the town for helping to make it a success. 

He said: "The first ever Pub in the Park was a great success. We’d like to say a big thank you to the chefs, the exhibitors, the musicians and everyone who helped put it together.

“Our biggest thanks goes to the people of Marlow and the surrounding area who have supported the idea with so much joy, enthusiasm and feedback.

"We will be learning from everyone’s feedback and are hoping to return next year."

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