Islington Tribune - News: Antony Worrall-Thompson helps boost Whitecross Street food festival

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Islington Tribune - by TOM WALKER
Published: 3 August 2007

Antony-Worrall-Thompson meets traders at the Whitecross Street festival

Celebrity chef helps boost food festival

CELEBRITY chef Antony Worrall-Thompson opened the fourth Whitecross Street Food Festival on Friday.
The festival, run by regeneration body EC1 New Deal, and Islington Council, once more brought a host of luxury food and drink to the Finsbury street.
Mr Worrall-Thompson was paid £1,100 for his short appearance, spending time chatting to stallholders and market-goers.
The chef dispelled criticism that the festival was driving away traditional traders.
He said: “Local people might not be able to afford all of it, but they can afford some of it.”
Jazz Vyas, who runs the Mantra Indian food stall, added: “We prepare the food as if we’re going to eat it at home. It’s all fresh produce.”
Andy Murphy, chief executive of EC1 New Deal, said, “Traders are queuing up to take permanent pitches, which is the sign of a thriving market. It’s always a boost to an event to get a celebrity along – and the increased trade they generate fully justifies the minimal fee charged.”

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