THE Skipton-based Yorkshire Dales Food and Drink Festival is celebrating after being shortlisted in both the UK Festivals Awards and in Welcome to Yorkshire's White Rose Awards.

The festival, which was held for the first time in 2016, and for the last three years has been held at Funkirk Farm, off the A59 between Broughton and Skipton, is in the running for the second year running in the White Rose awards 'tourism event of the year' category, and at the same time, is in the shortlist for 'best non-music festival' in the UK Festivals Awards.

Following the introduction of camping to the family orientated food and entertainment event, it has grown in size, with more than 43,000 people attending over the last three years.

Rachael Higgins, managing director of the family owned festival, said it was very exciting to be shortlisted for two awards.

"We are super critical of our event, reflecting each year on what we can do better, listening to our customers and partners views and acting on them," she said.

"We learn from our mistakes - we’ve made a few - and work really hard to make each year fresh and exciting for our guests. If you’ve not been before it really is a fantastic weekend in a beautiful setting for all the family, including the dog, so be sure to get your tickets before the sell out."

Planning is already well away for next year's festival, due to take place in July, when chef James Martin will be back for a fourth time, and when Ainsley Harriot will be making his first appearance.