'It has run its course' and 'too expensive': Locals react to Ludlow Food Festival's potential demise

It comes after the organisers of the acclaimed food festival released a statement on Wednesday (September 2) saying they are at a “crossroads” over the event’s future due to an “increasingly challenging climate”.

The Ludlow Marches Food and Drink board of directors, which has put on the Ludlow Food Festival for the last 30 years, said that this year’s event could possibly be the last in its current format.

Organisers blame “rising costs” amongst other factors for the event being at a critical juncture.

Following the development, the Shropshire Star went to measure the mood of people in Ludlow.

“I think that it is really sad,” said Charlotte Childs, who has family in Ludlow.

She went on to say: “Ludlow has always had a tradition for food, and it is obviously associated with food.”

Adding: “I think it is part of Ludlow’s heritage. I think it would be really sad to see it go. I am really sorry and sad to even hear that news.”

Bethany Webb, a fruit and vegetable trader on Ludlow Market, echoed Ms Childs’ sentiments when it came to the potential loss of the festival.

“It is a shame because it brings so many people to the town,” Ms Webb explained.

The trader and her partner also have their own shop in town - the Bullring Farm Shop - and she said the festival has been so good for the town in terms of helping business over the last 30 years.

“It would be a real shame for it to be stopped because it brings in so many tourists and trade - it is good for the market as well.

However, not everyone shared the same views on the Ludlow Food Festival’s potential demise.

Jan and Ron Golby, who live on the Clee Hill, were not as surprised to hear about the festival’s future being at-risk.

“I am not surprised, because now that they have moved it into the castle, it has got too expensive for locals to go,” said Mrs Golby.

Asked if the festival’s potential downfall would be a blow to Ludlow and the wider community, Mrs Golby said: “It probably would because it brings a lot of people in for the other shops and things.

“But because we have lost so many shops, there is not a lot for people to come for now.”

Mr Golby said he recognised that everywhere in the country is struggling due to rising costs, not just the food festival.

He said: “I am not political, but the way the country is going at the moment I am glad I am as old as I am, because what is it going to be like in 20 years’ time, nobody really knows.”

Billy Auger, of Augernik Fruit Farm, from Hopton Wafers, was also not surprised to hear the news about the event.

“Smaller producers like me cannot afford to go in there, it is just too exorbitant,” he said.

“The money they demand for a pitch, you are never going to recover it back.

“That is why it is all gone now to booze and ready to eat food.”

Mr Auger, who has been trading at Ludlow market since 1988, added: “It really was good, and it has gradually gone down and down and down.”

Tom Crowther, from Ludlow, said he thought the festival might have just had its day.

“It is very sad, but I think it has run its course. It has been running for a long time and these things have a life,” said Mr Crowther.

In response to these comments, festival chairman Martin Clemmey said: “We recognise that some people have these opinions but believe we are putting on a great value show with lots of new and revamped features going on this year.”

In their statement released on Wednesday, Ludlow Marches Food and Drink said: “This year, we’re investing in the visitor experience with more immersive demonstrations, kids’ activities, affordable hands-on workshops and opportunities to meet producers, while also bringing back much-loved aspects of the programme, such as the chef demos and live fire cooking.

“We want the festival to be more engaging, interactive and memorable than ever.

“We have always been a not for profit organization and whilst we do employ a few staff most of the organisers are volunteers who do it for the love of it.

“However, like many events, festivals and hospitality businesses, we are operating in an increasingly challenging climate.

“We weathered the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression and we re-emerged after Covid but rising costs, economic pressures and technology changes mean that staging large-scale events has never been more difficult.

“We remain committed to delivering an exceptional experience, showcasing the very best food and drink producers, chefs, retailers and hospitality businesses from the region and beyond. But we now stand at a crossroads.”

The organisers went onto say: “While this year’s September festival could be the best yet with loads of new features for foodies and families alike, rising costs mean that this could be the last one in the current format unless we see more people through the castle gates.

“These festivals are about much more than a weekend event. They support local producers, attract visitors to the town, generate significant economic benefits for businesses across the region, and help maintain Ludlow’s reputation as one of Britain’s great food destinations.

“If Ludlow Food Festival means something to you, this year is the year to support it. Buy a ticket, bring friends and family, spread the word, and help ensure that this iconic festival can continue for future generations to enjoy.

“Together, we can help secure the future of one of the UK’s most treasured food festivals.”

This year’s edition of the Ludlow Food Festival takes place between September 11 and 13.