SUPPLIERS joined a food show in Kendal.

Local businesses were welcomed back to the McClures Food Show on March 7 after an absence of three years due to Covid. This year, they took advantage of the conference facilities at Kendal Rugby Club.

Open to trade customers only, visitors came from all over Cumbria, Lancashire and North Yorkshire to catch up on the latest products and samples.

Filled with both national and local suppliers, old and new, there was plenty for local businesses to see.

The Westmorland Gazette:

Marketing manager Sarah Keast said: "It was great to be back exhibiting again and seeing some familiar faces. It’s been a tough few years with Covid and now we want to put that firmly behind us and get ready for what we hope to be a great season. Our customers are anticipating a busy season ahead, and we have had some great feedback from them about what we have on offer today."

One of the local suppliers was Bowness Bay Brewery.

Their Head of Sales Rick Eastwood said: "We found the day to be really interactive with a great range of complimentary brands driving high footfall of both new and existing customers. The offers on the day and professional sales team approach by  McClures, were really appreciated in helping us to secure additional orders."

Any food products that were left after the show were taken to the Ambleside food bank.

A spokesperson for the food bank said: "Thank you for your donation, it provided food to 30 food boxes and for over 20 hot meals given out to those in need  in the local community on Wednesday."

McClures are based in Windermere and employ over 150 people locally supplying and delivering to the hospitality industry.