Former Gordon Ramsay executive and Cote chef Steve Allen confirmed for Our Bury St Edmunds Food and Drink Festival

A former executive chef to Gordon Ramsay is the latest appearance confirmed for Bury St Edmunds’ food and drink festival later this month.

Steve Allen, who once worked under the celebrity chef but is currently employed by restaurant chain Cote, will be one of several experts taking to the stage at the free-admission Our Bury St Edmunds Food & Drink Festival on August 24 and 25.

Attendees can expect a wide range of activities over the August bank holiday for the event.

These include popular eateries like 1921, ICE, Giggling Squid, Rustico and Bellota sharing their kitchen secrets and The Wine Cellar hosting a demonstration day, while chef Rowen Halstead offers tips on minimising food waste.

One highlight appearance is TV chef Ching-He Huang, who will host three demonstrations on Monday, slotted between food and cocktail demonstrations from Bay Tree Café.

Mark Cordell, chief executive of Our Bury St Edmunds Business Improvement District, said: “We’ve got a stellar line-up in the kitchen this year and are very much looking forward to welcoming Ching-He Huang.

“She won’t just be demonstrating that Chinese cooking doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming but if her fans bring along copies of any of her books, she will be happy to sign them too.

“The two branches of Waterstones in the town both stock her books, so getting hold of a copy couldn’t be easier.

“Of course, as with all our events we have plenty going on throughout the town centre for all ages to enjoy.

“As well as the Farmers’ Market, the fairground rides and a wide range of stalls offering food and drink from around the world, our many hospitality businesses in the town will also look forward to welcoming visitors.”