ACCLAIMED chef Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, from television's River Cottage, is at The Bridgewater Hall in October.

He will prepare a selection of recipes from his latest book in a live cookery demonstration.

This is also a chance to listen to Hugh talking about aspects of his work and life at River Cottage and as a food writer, his commitment to real food and home cooking and the thinking behind his new book -- Meat.

Hugh has become known for his earthy, back-to-basics approach to cooking.

At the Glenfiddich Food & Drink Awards in May 2002, he was awarded the Glenfiddich Trophy for his outstanding contribution towards widening the understanding and appreciation of excellent food and drink in Britain and for his ambition to alter people's perception of food. His River Cottage Cookbook won the best food book award.

Born in London, but raised in Gloucestershire, Hugh has been keen on cookery since he was a child. He didn't train professionally, but instead studied at Oxford and travelled to Africa to do conservation work. When he came back to England, he joined the River Caf in London as a sous chef, but had to leave because he was too messy.

Hugh has since become a familiar face on TV with his series Cook on the Wild Side and TV Dinners. In 1997, he found River Cottage in Dorset which led to three TV series being filmed there. He is also a keen supporter of the organic movement. The evening starts at 8 pm on Monday, October 4.

To book tickets priced £10.00 £12.50 £15.00 phone The Bridgewater Hall Box Office on 0161 907 9000 or book online at www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk