Multi-Michelin star chef Jean Christophe Novelli made a welcome impression on people in Carlisle as his first masterclass got underway.

The celebrity chef is in the city centre today for the return of Carlisle Foodies Fest.

He's one of a number of chefs and local producers sharing their culinary skills in a string of demonstrations at the thee-day festival.

"I love produce and Cumbria is definitely the place to be.

"Not just for produce. To visit it's fantastic," Jean Christophe told the News & Star.

"I come to Cumbria a lot. I like Whitehaven, Carlisle, the Lake District just for a rest, going on your bike, and also I have been swimming in the lakes.

"One of my very close friends is in Whitehaven. Whitehaven is like my little destination pied-à-terre. It's the place I want to go outside home."

Other traders showcasing their offerings to the hungry public include Pioneer Foods, Two White Hats, the Circle Bar, the Tipsy Filly and the HDM Spice Shop.

Shoppers and visitors to the city have been spoiled by the sample of locally-sourced produce and flavours from further afield.

The festival, which aims to celebrate everything that is great about Cumbrian food and drink, while also including a mix of international cuisine, has been brought to the city by RR Events in partnership with Carlisle City Council.

Elsewhere 40 produces have arrived in Whitehaven for Taste Cumbria, today and tomorrow, while an international festival is taking place in Murray Road, Workington.