Stranraer Oyster Festival expected to reel in thousands
Final preparations are underway for a weekend of celebrating one of the country's rarest delicacies.
Stranraer is gearing up for its third oyster festival, expecting to reel in thousands of visitors to the area.
The three day event, which generated £1m last year, celebrates the area’s unique coastal heritage, culture and wealth of local produce.
Loch Ryan is the backdrop for the festival and is Scotland's only remaining native oyster bed after stocks elsewhere were destroyed by overfishing.
The shellfish commands a premium price amongst top chefs in prestigious restaurants in London.
The two man crew of the 'Vital Spark' work almost every single day of the year and are Scotland's only fishermen that do the job.
Locally sourced seafood stalls, award-winning pie makers and craft distillery gin tasting will take place in the food and drink marquee.
Scottish Celebrity chef Tony Singh MBE is part of the festival's packed programme this year. He will be demonstrating his cooking techniques and chatting to visitors.
For those who prefer eating oysters rather than preparing them, the Scottish Oyster Shucking Championships and an Oyster Eating Competition will be held Saturday and Sunday.
Stranraer Oyster Festival runs from Friday 13th – Sunday 15th September 2019.
Weekend tickets (Fri-Sun) cost £5, daily tickets £3 and under 12s go free.
For tickets, special offers and programme information visit www.stranraeroysterfestival.com
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