Awards Judges

Julie Neale - LEAF

Sustainability

Julie Neale from Linking Environment And Farming (LEAF) will be joining us as the judge for our brand new Sustainability Award at this year’s Alcester Food Festival!

This new award celebrates those going the extra mile to champion environmentally friendly and sustainable practices in food and farming. We can’t wait to see who impresses Julie with their green credentials!

Best Baker

The Best Baker Award at this year’s Alcester Food Festival will be judged by Claire Tymoshyshyn – an accomplished patisserie chef and experienced bakery manager with a passion for perfection.

Get ready to bring your best bakes – Claire will be on the lookout for creativity, quality, and, of course, incredible flavour!

Best Street Food

Monica Haldar, master Indian chef and founder of The Spice Club, as a judge for this year’s Best Street Food Award at the Alcester Food Festival! With her incredible culinary expertise and passion for authentic Indian flavors, Monica brings a world of spice and insight to the table.

Who will impress her taste buds the most? Come and find out!

Innovation

Nick Irons, Business Manager at Minerva Mill Innovation Centre, will be the judge for this year’s Innovation Award!

Nick brings a wealth of experience in supporting local businesses and fostering innovation—making him the perfect choice to help spotlight creativity and originality in our amazing food and drink community.

Best Alcohol

We’re excited to announce that the Beers, Wines & Spirits Specialist from Waitrose Johnny Williams will be joining us to judge our alcohol stalls! If you’re showcasing beers, wines, ciders or spirits, this is your chance to impress an expert — and maybe take home some bragging rights! Cheers to great taste and even better competition!

Best Brew

Maggie Payne, beloved local community hero, is our judge for the Best Brew Award at this year’s Alcester Food Festival.

From comforting cups of tea to refreshing cold brews, Maggie will be tasting a wide variety of non-alcoholic hot and cold drinks to find the standout beverage of the festival. Her deep connection to the community and passion for local talent make her the perfect person for the job!

Best Deli

We’re honoured to welcome Tracy Parkes from Alcester Court Leet as a judge for this year’s Best Deli Award at the Alcester Food Festival!

Tracy made history as Alcester’s first female High Bailiff, and her passion for the town and its traditions is truly inspiring. We’re thrilled to have her on board to help spotlight the finest local delis and celebrate the best of Alcester’s foodie scene!