Italian chef, Gennaro Contaldo, will be at the Isle of Wight food and drink festival, The Great Wight Bite, when it returns to Northwood House in Cowes, on September 7 and 8.

In 2023, more than 5,000 foodies enjoyed culinary delights and entertainment from across the Isle of Wight and the south coast.

This year, Gennaro Contaldo, who mentored Jamie Oliver and is a regular on Saturday Morning Kitchen, will visit.

With TV credits and cooking books to his name, he said: “The last time I was on the Isle of Wight was 20 years ago.

Isle of Wight County Press: Chris Bavin and chef Robert Thompson on stage, in 2023Chris Bavin and chef Robert Thompson on stage, in 2023 (Image: Great Wight Bite)

"I am sure a lot has changed since then, but I know the Island is still blessed with incredible food and drink producers."

He will be demonstrating recipes from his latest cook book, Verdure, which is all about making vegetables the star of the show.

He will also be helping out at the children's cookery school, The Little Chefs' Den.

Broadcaster Chris Bavin will return, to host the Chef's Demonstration Stage.

“Last year’s festival was one of my highlights of the summer.

"There was such a great atmosphere and it was great fun working with all the local chefs," said Chris.

Isle of Wight County Press: Chris Bavin in the Little Chefs' Den, in 2023Chris Bavin in the Little Chefs' Den, in 2023 (Image: Great Wight Bite)

Isle of Wight County Press: Drinks expert, Helena Nicklin, who now lives in GurnardDrinks expert, Helena Nicklin, who now lives in Gurnard (Image: Great Wight Bite)

Gurnard resident, drinks expert, writer and broadcaster Helena Nicklin, will also be at the event.

Helena said: "As a new permanent resident of the Island, I have been blown away by what I've seen of the food and drink scene and how quickly it's growing.

"I couldn't be happier to bring my passion for wine and spirits to such an engaged and excited, hungry and thirsty audience!"

Adult cooking classes will be run by Zoe Ombler, from the Epicurean Sailor.

Visitors can also expect stallholders at the show, which aims to champion the food and drink industry, along with an Elton John tribute act.

Isle of Wight County Press: Ultimate Elton will be on stageUltimate Elton will be on stage (Image: Great Wight Bite)

Chef, Matt Egan, will delivering this year’s pop-up restaurant, showcasing ‘cooking over fire’.

The Great Wight Bite will also be supporting the Isle of Wight Foodbank.

Event Director, Richard Nowell, said: “Cowes is rapidly turning into one of the most exciting foodie destinations in the country. Expect even more delicious food and drink, plus some fantastic festival entertainment."