IT was almost too much to savour as Christchurch's latest, and biggest, food festival arrived to tantalise the taste buds of thousands of visitors.

The Daily Echo-backed festival was officially kicked off by the borough's mayor, Cllr Josephine Spencer, on Saturday.

The streets were filled with mouth-watering sights and smells as 60 traders sold their wares during Saturday and Sunday's International Food Market.

From sizzling sausages to scrumptious strawberries Christchurch served up a whole host of gourmet delights at the start of its 10-day Food Fest 3.

The town was buzzing as throngs of people enjoyed the wonderful aromas that were wafting from the market stalls.

Throughout the High Street there were dozens of local traders selling the best in regionally produced goods.

And in Saxon Square Christchurch welcomed its friends from its twin town of Saint-Lo, France where the best in French cuisine was on offer.

To whet the appetite there was also many stalls selling wines, beers and ciders plus the Ye Old George Inn was slaking thirsts with its beer and wine festival.

Festival organiser, Mary Reader, said: "It's wonderful to see so many people here enjoying themselves and bringing their friends and families especially into Christchurch for the food festival.

"The festival has created additional business for the town but even more it has produced a wonderful community spirit.

"The festival just keeps growing and getting better with each year and I hope people will enjoy the rest of the week's events."

There's still a week of finger-licking, lip-smacking fun to come as pubs, hotels and restaurants hold a series of events.

There will Golden Jubilee candlelight illuminations today and tomorrow and until Sunday there will be food sampling sessions and cookery demonstrations throughout the borough.

The festival culminates in a final night dinner at the Chewton Glen Hotel where proceeds will go to the Echo-backed Domino Appeal in aid of a new school for children with autism at Hurn.

To find out more call the Christchurch Information Centre on 01202 471780 or visit www.christchurchfoodfest.co.uk.

l THE annual Christchurch Food Awards, as voted by Daily Echo readers have been announced: Best Pub Food - The Kings Arms; Favourite Coffee Shop - The Copper Skillet; Favourite Family Restaurant - The Crooked Beams; Best Take Away - Top Wok; Best Fish and Chip Shop - Somerford Fish and Chips; Best Italian - Topogigo; Best Chinese/Thai/Indian Restaurant - Starlight; Favourite restaurant for food and service - Bistro on the Bridge