The Cheshire Agricultural Society celebration of life in the county, which is marking its 186th year, is the premier summertime agricultural event in the North West of England.
Jean-Christophe Novelli and Shelina Permaloo headline the 2024 show’s line-up of eight chefs in the Roberts Bakery Food Live Theatre.
The 2024 sessions promise a culinary adventure showcasing the finest local produce, interactive food experiences, and top chefs, including Michelin-starred Jean-Christophe; Shelina, who won BBC MasterChef 2012, along with Coronation Street actress Samia Longchambon who plays Maria Connor. Samia teamed up with Jean-Christophe to win ITV's Cooking with the Stars in 2023. The pair will recreate favourite recipes from the show and take part in a Q&A session spilling the beans on all things 'Cooking & Corrie'. Shelina, now a familiar face on TV will show her take on modern Mauritian street food.
Host Brian Mellor will introduce and assist the chefs and demonstrate his own culinary skills and passion for local produce.
The line-up also includes Tom Ince, head chef at The Refuge in Manchester; Sean Noonan, formerly of Cottons Hotel, Knutsford and now head chef at Mitton Hall Hotel in the Ribble Valley; Jake Boyce, head chef at Groobarbs Field Kitchen; Woody Barlow of Bear Inns along with his head chefs from The Swan Tarporley and The Lion Malpas showcasing food and wine pairings, and Adie Munt head chef at The Monastery, Manchester.
As well as the live demonstrations, visitors can explore an array of local produce from artisanal cheeses and cured meats to baked goods and fresh local produce.
Rob Davenport, show director, said: 'We're incredibly excited to bring such a diverse and talented line-up of chefs to the Roberts Bakery Food Live Theatre this year. From Michelin-starred brilliance to the vibrant flavours of Mauritian street food, there's something for every palate to discover. Along with show favourite Jean-Christophe Novelli, and Coronation Street star Samia Longchambon, this year's show promises to be a truly unforgettable culinary experience.'
On Tuesday, the showground stays open until 10 pm for Late at the Show featuring Boyzlife, the supergroup created by Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden who were members of boybands Boyzone and Westlife. There will be performances from House Jammerz and Babalola Jr, dancing, food stalls, bars, a children's fairground, face painting, craft stalls, picnic areas, a tug-of-war competition and a polo match. The evening, which runs until 10pm, is free for daytime ticket-holders. Late at the Show-only tickets are available priced £10 per adult and £25 for a family ticket, with entry from 5pm.
Other highlights across the two days include the shopping village, the horse show and the Agri-Centre, exploring agriculture through interactive exhibits. For the first time, the Cheshire Royal County Show is hosting magnificent giant tortoises, the gentle giants that are living relics of prehistoric times, and natterjack alpacas make a return appearance.
The Knights of Nottingham medieval re-enactment troupe will stage jousting displays, showcasing the chivalry, combat skills, and grandeur of the medieval era. There is a fairground with thrilling rides and classic amusements, and the Mini Off-Rovers, giving young drivers a taste of a mini off-road vehicle.
Cheshire Royal County Show 2024
June 18 and 19
Clay House Farm, Flittogate Lane, Tabley WA16 0HJ
For more information and to buy tickets online, visit royalcheshireshow.org
