Summer food extravaganaza to return to Horsham town centre

‘The Big Nibble – A Slice of Sussex’ is a local food and drink spectacular, organised by Horsham District Council in conjunction with Horsham Markets, and is the launch event for the district wide Food and Drink Festival, which runs from August 31 to September 29.

One important part of the popular event’s success is the ever expanding local produce market in the Carfax in Horsham town centre, which extends from the usual market that takes place on a Saturday in the town.

This year visitors can return on Sunday for a second chance to browse the large and diverse mix of artisan producers booked to attend the event.

Those visiting the town will also be able to try before they buy in many cases and there will be hot food to eat on site, as well as attractive arts and crafts stalls, great for gift ideas.

One of our regular artisans looking forward to the Big Nibble weekend is Bartie of Sussex Faire.

Bartie’s Sussex Faire is owned and run by John ‘Bartie’ Bartlett and, having started in 2008 as a hobby business, it is now a full time concern for him and it involves most of his family.

All of the products are made by Bartie in his extended home kitchen using traditional methods in small batch sizes. He uses many local ingredients with even some of the fruit grown himself or sourced from a local network of private individuals who have surplus seasonal fruit.

He can be found, in all weathers, every Thursday and Saturday on the Local Produce market in the Carfax.

Marion Carter, Horsham Markets, said: “We are thrilled to be working with the council again on the Big Nibble. This will be our third year bringing in local producers for the two day event and we have more than ever.

“Horsham has become a real food hub with our weekly local produce markets on Thursdays and Saturdays together with a fantastic choice of restaurants, specialist food shops and delis. The Big Nibble is a great opportunity to showcase what the town and the District has to offer.”

Helena Croft, HDC’s deputy leader and cabinet member for communication, Horsham town, and special projects, said: “I’m really looking forward to another year of this exciting and popular event.

“The wonderful range and quality of local food and drink, both during the event and all year round, really supports the fact that the Horsham District is THE foodie centre of Sussex.

“I hope as many home bakers as possible take up the chance to put their skills to the test this year with the exciting addition of the Great Horsham Bake Off!”

There are plenty more events taking place at The Big Nibble, including the Horsham Beer Trail, demonstrations as part of the ‘Live Food Show’, Nibble Trail, live music, street theatre, The Great Horsham Bake Off and more.

Horsham District Council would like to thank all partners and sponsors for their involvement with the event, including: Horsham Markets, T West Sussex County Times, West Sussex Gazette, The Mid Sussex Times, The Weekend Herald, Skoda Station Garage, Southern, The Black Jug, Spirit FM, Southdowns Historic Vehicles, Beales, Steamer Trading Cook Shop and Waitrose.

For more information about The Big Nibble event on 31 August & 1 September, visit the website () or contact Horsham District Council by calling 01403 215529.

The Big Nibble launches the Horsham District Food and Drink Festival, which runs from 31 August to 29 September.

For more information and to download the year-round local produce guide, visit the dedicated website.