New Forest Eats ‘n’ Treats returns to Brockenhurst College for festive shopping and entertainment

Christmas shoppers can browse and purchase an array of unique, locally-produced, artisan products, as well as enjoy a mix of lively entertainment, by attending New Forest Eats ‘n’ Treats at Brockenhurst College on Sunday 15 November.

Now in its eighth year, the annual event is a joint venture between Brockenhurst College, The New Forest and New Forest Marque.

Between 10:00am and 3:00pm, more than 70 stall holders will show and sell goods including food & drink and arts & crafts items, making this year’s event the biggest ever.

Stalls will set up in the College’s Main Hall and Brock Hub, while mobile catering outlets, serving a wide variety of hot food, will set up on the nearby Staff Lawn.

Meanwhile, a licensed bar run by Pig Beer will be on-hand to bring added Christmas cheer by meeting the needs of thirsty shoppers.

Live music will come courtesy of student performers, the Beatlets, Winchester’s Carley Varley, musical theatre performer Matt Traher and New Forest Rock Choir.

Face-painting, Christmas decoration-making and writing-to-Santa activities will also be available to keep children amused.

Plus, there will be food preparation demonstrations from well-known local producers, including top chefs.

All food demonstrations will take place in the College’s fine-dining restaurant, known as MJ’s.

Food demonstrations will be a highlight of the event, with Brockenhurst College’s Allan Collier and Mark Russell leading the sessions alongside Neal Jepson, Head Chef at New Park Manor.

Visitors will have the chance to pick up expert tips and inspiration to bring a little extra flair to their own cooking.

Allan Collier spent more than a decade as Head Pâtissier at London’s Ritz Hotel, where he helped deliver the hotel’s renowned afternoon tea to around 400 people every day.

Mark Russell’s career began at Brockenhurst College, where he won an international student bartending competition at the Calvados Nouvelle Vogue International Trophies. He went on to become Assistant Restaurant Manager at The Montagu Arms Hotel in Beaulieu before returning to the College to lead front-of-house training in its MJ’s restaurant.

Head of Marketing and Communications at Brockenhurst College, Rebekah Donawa, said: “Eats ‘n’ Treats has grown bigger and better every year, and it’s wonderful to see both traders and visitors embracing an event that brings the College and wider community together.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to sample outstanding local produce, enjoy live music and expert demonstrations, and discover unique Christmas gifts you simply won’t find on the high street.”

Onsite parking will be provided without charge, while entry will cost £3.00 for adults and children under 16 will be welcomed FREE.

There is no need to book in advance – visitors can just turn up on the day. Please note that Brockenhurst College is a smoke-free, vape-free, dog-free campus.