Multi award-winning independent estate agents, James Du Pavey, have been confirmed as the headline sponsor of the James Du Pavey Festival Food Theatre at this year’s 9th annual Ginger and Spice Festival, taking place in Market Drayton, Shropshire.

This culinary highlight will be staged under the historic 19th-century stone Buttercross on Cheshire Street, right in the centre of town, from 9.30am to 4.30pm on Saturday 27th September 2025. The theatre will feature top local and regional chefs showcasing their skills, with free entry for all visitors.

James Du Pavey said:

“We’re absolutely delighted to once again support the Food Theatre at this year’s Ginger and Spice Festival. With so much to enjoy – from mouth-watering food and live cooking to food and craft stalls and family activities – it really does offer something for everyone.”

For the first time, Eccleshall-based Perrys Field to Fork Artisan Cookery School joins as the supporting sponsor.

Deborah Hill, owner of Perrys Field to Fork, commented:

“We are thrilled to be supporting the James Du Pavey Food Theatre. It’s a fantastic platform to showcase the talent of our passionate chefs, and we can’t wait to bring a flavour of what we do to this vibrant community event!”

A Star line up of Chefs

The Food Theatre will be hosted for the first time by Ryan Kennedy, presenter of the mid-morning show on Shropshire Live

Chefs taking part (many from Perrys Food to Fork Cookery School) include:

  • Sara Guidi – Italian cook

  • Michel Nijsten – Chef & Master Baker, The Inn Baschurch & British Bread Company

  • Scott Shepley – Shepley’s Butchers, Market Drayton

  • Dan Smith – The Pastry Box Shropshire

  • Stephen Hill – Perry’s Field to Fork

Many of these talented chefs also teach at Perrys Field to Fork, giving festival goers the chance to pick up expert tips to try at home.

About the Ginger and Spice Festival

Now in its ninth year, the multi award-winning Ginger and Spice Festival celebrates Market Drayton’s unique culinary heritage, historic links to gingerbread, and local food culture. Held during British Food Fortnight, the event promotes local producers, markets, and places of historical interest.

A full line-up of events will be announced soon – keep an eye on the What’s On page for updates.

See Who’s Cooking 

Click the button below to see our exciting line up!

Fun and Community Spirit

The team from James Du Pavey’s Eccleshall branch, led by Branch Manager Lee Davies, will be at the festival all day, adding to the fun atmosphere. Expect children’s face painting, branded balloon giveaways, and plenty of community engagement.

Food Theatre Host

The Food Theatre will be hosted for the first time by Ryan Kennedy, presenter of the mid-morning show on Shropshire Live, who brings over 12 years’ experience at the BBC.