James Martin, Ainsley Harriot and alongside those big named chefs is Bolton's very own Anna Worthington.
Anna, from one of the town's most popular tearooms will get her 'bake-on' on Monday as she gives a live baking demonstration at the Bolton Food and Drink Festival 2024.
Anna along with her husband, Tim, run the popular “Bake and Roast” and at Smithills Hall, which currently serves an array of finger sandwiches, homemade soup, seasonal canapes and a ‘seasonal cake of the week’ offer.
The business also offers custom handmade celebration and wedding cakes, as well as offering catering for occasions.
This year, Anna will make a Burnt Basque cheesecake in front of audiences.
She is among regional chefs who will be running live demonstrations throughout the weekend at Victoria Square.
Anna will be giving her demonstration at 11am.
Anna said: “This is the third time I’ve done a live demonstration at the festival – so I’m not feeling nervous to perform live. We usually get a good group, and the free samples doesn’t hurt turnout!
“In the past I’ve made carrot cake and Victoria sponge but this year I’m going to make a Burnt Basque cheesecake with a fruit coulis sample.
“When people normally think of cheesecake, it’s usually the classic New York style, which you need to get just right to perfect.
“The beauty of the Burnt Basque style is that it doesn’t matter if it cracks, which takes the pressure and stress out of baking and also makes it easier for people to learn and understand about baking.”
This year’s festival will also welcome over 200 traders, arts and crafts stalls, live music and a ‘fun family feast’ at Elizabeth Park Family Zone.
The festival, which runs over the course of four days, also features a ‘picnic and prosecco’ event with the Major of Bolton, Cllr Andy Morgan alongside special guests Rusti Lee, Helen McGinn, Robert Owen Brown and Simon Wood.
Anna said: “There is some big names in the line-up, but I’m feeling confident. We make 90 per cent of the things that we sell – I’m self-taught but we pride ourselves on making good quality food and cakes.
“Although one level it’s scary, it should be good fun, we have been practising every day baking cakes in-house. I’m glad that the festival is putting Bolton on the map.”
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