CIDER-maker Mike Henney is celebrating sparkling success after the first day of the Worcestershire Food & Drink Festival.

His stand was the apple of shoppers' eyes yesterday at the launch of the two-day speciality food and drink extravaganza, organised by regional producers' champion Heart of England Fine Foods.

Supermarket giant Tesco was so impressed with his tipples, it has snapped up his Frome Valley Cider for its Worcester stores.

Foodies, more of which were flocking to the Worcester Cathedral festival today, were hard-pressed to resist the delicious cheeses, hand-made pickles, speciality beers, herb oils and home-reared meat on offer.

Budding chefs were due to be entertained today by celebrity chef James Martin, who will be wowing would-be cooks with mouth-watering dishes created using regional produce.

"We've got such a star-studded line-up as well as plenty of children's activities and a jazz band, all in the wonderful location of the Cathedral grounds," said festival organiser Jo Amos.

"We shall also be launching Tastes of Worcestershire, an award scheme held in partnership with Worcestershire County Council to encourage more eateries to cook with and promote local food and drink on their menus."

The festival, part of the Three Choirs Fringe, runs until 5pm today.