ORGANISERS of Skipton's first 'foodie' event this weekend are hoping for dry and sunny weather, and lots of visitors.

Skipton Town Council says the 'foodie weekend' (August 13 and August 14) in the canal basin and High Street will be a must for anyone interested in great tasting food and drink.

Hannah Corrigan, the council's events and tourism manager, said: "It is also an opportunity to explore the wealth of fantastic food and drink available throughout the town."

There will be a market at the canal basin on Saturday and Sunday, from 10am to 4pm featuring local traders, fresh produce, food, drinks and crafts.

The regular Saturday market on the High Street will also be in operation, with traders offering fresh fruit and vegetables, cheese, sweets, biscuits, brownies and olives.

And on the Sunday, Real Food Markets, which has held events in Ilkley, will be heading to Skipton for the first time. It will take place on the partially closed High Street from 10am to 4pm.

Lucy Allen from Real Food said: "Real Food Markets is thrilled to be part of Skipton’s foodie weekend.

"We have a wonderful selection of stallholders offering local and speciality produce from coffee, rum and beer, to chutneys, cheese, cakes and brownies.

"Visitors will also be able to find hot food on the day such as wood-fired pizzas made to order and hot sausage and bacon rolls mad with meat straight from the farm."

She added: "There will also be some carefully chosen speciality stalls featuring handmade homeware and jewellery.

"This is an excellent opportunity for visitors to meet our makers, discover some unique products and support local and independent small businesses.”

During the weekend, participating eateries, restaurants and bars in the town will be offering day and evening events special menus, discounts, and meal deals.

Sarah Howsen manager of Skipton Business Improvement District (BID) manager urged people to download a special app to find out about special offers and to make most of the weekend.

"During the foodie weekend special offers will be available in various restaurants and bars which people can find on the LoyalFree app.

"Everyone is encouraged to download the app from their app store to see what is on offer across the town, the app also has trails showcasing where to eat out, sample real ale or find restaurants offering vegan options.

"It is the ideal tool for people who both live in Skipton or are visiting for the weekend."