THOUSANDS of people flocked to a castle in the region at the weekend as it became the setting for a massive food festival.

Organisers of the Wear Valley Food Festival at Auckland Castle, Bishop Auckland, said the event was such a huge success that plans were already under way for the next one.

The festival provided the chance for local food producers and craftspeople, many of whom are farmers who have diversified, to show what they have to offer.

Saturday's event was so well-supported that crowds queued outside the castle long before the 10am start and organisers had to open extra entrances so people could move more freely.

William Hurworth, managing director of Auckland Castle, said: "The event has far exceeded our expectations and we are already looking forward to holding it again next year."

Traders were equally delighted, with many having to go back home for more supplies after selling out early in the day.

Gill Shea, of Paper Pastimes, said: "It has been great. It is such a fantastic set-up having it at the castle and opening the facilities for the public.

"It is a fabulous promotion for the castle and local craftspeople. I hope they do it again."

Audrey Taylor, from Audrey's Crafts in Thornaby, Teesside, said she would like to see the event held more than once a year.

Castle manager Kim Fryer said: "The castle opens its doors for the tourists from Monday and this is a fabulous start to our season. It is the first time that we have done this and I have to say we are looking forward to next year."

Bishop Auckland MP Derek Foster attended the festival with his family and said he was overwhelmed by its success.

He said: "It has been tremendous and this is such good encouragement for people such as myself and the traders who are trying to put Bishop Auckland back on the map and boost tourism in the town."

Town centre manager Derek Toon said: "I'm astounded. We would have been happy with a few hundred people but this has been amazing."