A Hat Trick of hot Stuff will come to Eastnor Castle when it opens its gates for the third annual Chilli Festival.

Organisers say the event will b "bigger, better and hotter", and one highlight will be the change to test your bravery with a chilli eating challenge.

David Littlewood, General Manager at Eastnor Castle said “We are really thrilled with the success of our Chilli Festival and it has gained a huge following. "The Clifton Chilli Club are back by popular demand this year, hosting the chilli eating competition for anyone brave enough to join in."

The local hero will be head groundsman, Nick Robinson, a man who actually grows his own chillies.

Mr Littlewood said: "He will be taking part in the competition to see if he can better his third place last year”.

The event will take place on Sunday May 4 and Bank Holiday Monday, May 5.

There will be over 50 stalls and the castle courtyard will be transformed into a chilli market and visitors will be able to try and buy chocolate, bread, cake, vodka, cocktails and chutney as well as grow-your-own chilli plants.

There will also be a number of specialist hot food suppliers selling authentic Asian curries and other spicy foods.

In the cookery theatre, Thai chef Suree Coates, from Shropshire who is chef of the year semi-finalist and has her own restaurant ‘The King and Thai’ will be demonstrating her authentic cookery skills.

And chef, Marina Ibrahim will be showing visitors how to make delicious Egyptian mezze.

Younger visitors will get catering tips in the Children’s Cookery Theatre.

Mr Littlewood added: "To create a real carnival atmosphere, there will be live musical entertainment from local Mexican band – Los Squideros from Hereford, and joining them will be One Island Steel Band and Basha Beats Samba Band.

The third Eastnor Chilli Festival will be open from 11am to 5pm on both days and admission prices are Adults: £10, Seniors: £9, Children: £6.50 and a Family Ticket (2+3) is priced at £26.50. Discounted tickets are available on-line.

Further details