I try to attend as may food shows and events that I’m able to within reason in the year and The Good Food Show, Birmingham is one of the longstanding food events that I run too armed with an empty belly.

I walked around the show with fellow foodies Julie and Rosie and was incredibly pleased to see so many local producers from Northamptonshire and Bedfordshire.

We arrived at 10.30am and were thrown out at 6pm, the day seemed to fly by. I think the Warner Edwards gin, prosecco and alcoholic key lime pie had something to do with it. I must have consumed my own body weight in food and drink (that’s allot) and so glad I did. I will say though that there was no real Italian food stalls apart from a cheese stall with a small variety of cheese. The show clearly needs Carmela’s Kitchen to attend next year, laden with fresh handmade pasta, homemade ragu, antipasti and bread! (Any investors are welcome)

From local rapeseed oil www.farringtons-oils.co.uk to incredible tasting gin www.warneredwards.com , and  spicy hot chili growers Edible Ornamentals. I left the show with heavy arms full of  products, produce and a huge paella pan too.

The Good Food Show highlights local, independent producers who work incredibly hard to build up and market their specific brand. Food events are a great way to try before you buy. To taste a little something different and to meet incredible, funny witty people at the same time.

Supporting local brands and small independents is so important at The Good Food Show, but equally when you return home to your own town too.

One other huge benefit of such food events is also meeting and interacting with incredible chefs, renowned for their own style of cooking, amazing restaurants and wonderful manner with the general public. Theo Randall, one of the most incredible Italian chefs in the UK, took stage and was an absolute gentleman, he has not got an Italian bone in his body but said he has an Italian soul!! Incredible. An inspiration to anyone who loves and cooks Italian food, and Theo you are so right, Puglia is a fabulous region.

Carmela x