A HOTLY anticipated celebration of spice was held for the first time by a South Lakeland estate.

Holker Hall, Cark-in-Cartmel, played host to its first Chilli Fest, which delivered heat, fun and flavour to almost 5,000 visitors during the weekend.

“We didn’t know what to expect but we were really pleased, it was a fantastic event and there was great atmosphere,” said Holker’s visitor services manager Jillian Rouse.

Chilli lovers were treated to a variety of stalls from all over the country offering everything from take-home goodies and specialist chilli produce to hog roasts, curries and churros.

There was also live music, the chance to salsa dance and learn from expert demonstrations held by Made in Cumbria’s Ambassador for Cumbrian Food, Gary McClure.

But the highlight for many was the appearance of Tony Ainsworth, better known in the chilli world as Darth Naga, who presided over the chilli competitions which saw eight people each day battle it out to consume the hottest pepper.

Holker Hall host many food and horticultural oriented events and Ms Rouse said this fitted their ethos.

“We talked about of the first time at last year’s garden festival and it’s taken 12 months to plan,” she added.

And with the success of the debut event, Ms Rouse added it should ‘hopefully’ be here to stay.