Organisers of the Christmas gift and food fair at Ely Cathedral are promising a bigger and more spectacular event than last year’s successful inaugural show.

Cambs Times: Ely Cathedral Food & Gift Fair, Theresa Hengle, from Lovetocreate, CambridgeEly Cathedral Food & Gift Fair, Theresa Hengle, from Lovetocreate, Cambridge (Image: Archant)

Cambs Times: Ely Cathedral Food & Gift Fair,Ely Cathedral Food & Gift Fair, (Image: Archant)

The fair is taking place today (Friday) and tomorrow, with opening hours from 9.30am-4.30pm and late-night shopping tomorrow from 6.30-8.30pm.

More than 100 gift stalls will be situated inside the cathedral with additional exhibitors offering specialist cheeses, oils, chocolates and locally brewed beverages in the festive food hall set up in the Lady Chapel.

Lesley Ann Thompson, marketing manager at Ely Cathedral, said: “We were delighted with the event last year and we want to make it even more exciting and spectacular for shoppers and visitors this year.

“We have made room for plenty of new exhibitors, introduced additional cooking and floral demonstrations and have organised some very special ‘added’ attractions.”

The festival will include seasonal cookery demonstrations and tips by celebrity chef Alex Mackay and a talk by well-known cook, writer

and Sunday Telegraph columnist Diana Henry, who will reveal her favourite food writers and Christmas recipes.

In addition, there will be cookery displays by several local chefs including Tim Hayward from Fitzbillies in Cambridge.

Members from the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies from across the Eastern region will hold seasonal floral workshops and, on Saturday, children can enjoy a ride on a vintage carousel and meet some Christmas elves and reindeer.

Entry costs £2.50 and children are admitted free.