BOUTIQUE WEEKENDER Sunday 4 September:

CIDER DAY at THORNE'S FOODS, SECRET SPAIN at HOTEL DU VIN,

ITALIAN MARKET at BRIGHTON MARINA, tastings at ALOKA

Festival photographer Julia Claxton gives the lowdown on the opening Boutqiue Weekender

Not such a bright day as Saturday, there was even some torrential rain at one point, but it didn't dampen the enthusiasm of those on the trail of tasty delights on the second day of the Boutique Weekender. I started the morning at Brighton Marina where a jaunty accordion player on stilts welcomed me to the Mamma Mia Italian Market. Stall laden with olives, charcuterie and breads stretched temptingly before me, and I couldn't resist the lure of a warm slice of pizza fresh from the oven, which I ate whilst sheltering from a rather violent cloudburst. This fortunately didn't last long, and I continued my journey - back into the centre of town in search of a dry cider at Thornes Food's Cider tasting event. Here 5 very different regional ciders were paired with tasters of local Sussex produce: a hand raised pork pie, honey roast ham and various cheeses.

Next up was Aloka in East Street and a chance to sample their superfood vegan ice creams. I'd been a bit dubious about this as I am not a fan of soya, but was relieved and pleasantly surprised to find that there wasn't any in these cashew nut and superfood [such as Goji Berry, Acai, Camu] confections. I particularly enjoyed the frangipani with almond and raisin.

Finally on to the Hotel du Vin where with the assistance of The Spanish Food Company the courtyard was transformed into 'Secret Spain' a street of Tapas stalls and a wonderful selection of Spanish beers, wines and sherries, with tables arranged in the beautiful leafy courtyard to eat and chat at. The sun even managed to return to shine on this lovely leisurely way to spend the end of this fabulous foodie weekend.

For more photos of the launch visit:

http://photography.juliaclaxton.net/911ff2