MORE than 2000 people discovered the house and grounds of Lainston House Hotel in Sparsholt as it opened its doors for a special festival.

The Lainston House Family Food Festival, which is the first one at the hotel in Woodman Lane, has held was a bigger success than anyone anticipated.

More than 2,500 people descended on the hotel on Sunday where they enjoyed a variety of food demonstrations, entertainment and a style workshop.

The festival was opened by TV presenter Linda Barker who used to host Changing Rooms.

Chefs at the hotel Andy Mackenzie and Olly Rouse delivered an array of demonstrations which included 'tiramisu the hard way' a sensory and interactive demo on olive oil and creative techniques, kitchen myth fact or fiction and food to make you healthier, younger, fitter and happier.

The entertainment included performances by the Winchester Military Wives Choir, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Army Cadet Force Band and Corp's of Drums.

Organiser and sales manager at Lainston House Hotel, Justine Rayner said: "It was such a lovely day weather wise, we felt that we had lots of difference choices for all the family, there were things for children and with the demo's it was fit for all."

The money raised from the event will go to military charity Help for Heroes.