FOODIES will be in gourmet heaven this week as Wales’ largest and longest running food festival returns.

The Abergavenny Food Festival takes place this weekend, and it's an event that attracts people from across the world as the town is transformed into a gastronomic destination for two days.

The festival, which is in its 19th year, is expected attract more than 35,000 visitors across the weekend.

This year, big-names from the world of food are returning to speak at the event including Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, who is best-known for his Channel 4 program River Cottage, and Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge who has appeared on various culinary television programmes.

Ireland’s best known cook Darina Allen is also one of the speakers, as is acclaimed food and drinks writer Kay Plunkett-Hogge and author Genevieve Taylor. They will appear on the festival’s Borough Theatre stage.

Highlights from the culinary celebration include a pop-up feast by crowdfunded restaurant and food research hub Edinburgh Food Studio, and Ukrainian born chef Olia Hercules cooking up recipes from her soon to be released second cookbook Kaukasis, at a special book-club dinner to include readings and stories from the author.

There will also be skills workshops from Australian chef and author Rebecca Sullivan, an oyster masterclass from Simon Lamont, and seasonal British and Indian cookery classes from chef Romy Gill, MBE.

Visitors to this year’s festival can look forward to an expanded producers’ market which will once again showcase the best British food, as well as local produce.

This year sees the return of the Night Market on Saturday from 6pm at the Lower Brewery Yard, which also features live performances from The Poobahs and The Box Band.

Families can also enjoy the fun as there are plenty of activities for kids, including free cookery classes and a new edible education space which has plenty of opportunities to get little hands dirty.

Visitors and residents can also enjoy the Saturday night fireworks spectacular and party at Abergavenny Castle, and those not going into the festival space can enjoy the fringe events are hosted by the Abergavenny community.

The festival's new chief executive, Aine Morris said: “We’re incredibly excited about the strength of the festival line up this year.

“Our programme is a reflection of the skills, passion and commitment being shown to their craft by all those involved in bringing food to the table.

“Abergavenny is fundamentally all about the food, with a focus on real food, real farmers, and real chefs. We are keen to get people trying new things, tasting new produce and strengthening their engagement with where food comes from.”

Find out more at abergavennyfoodfestival.com.