HUNDREDS and thousands of pounds has been brought into the Carrick area thanks to the success of the Ballantrae Festival of Food and Drink.

An independent study has revealed that almost £150,000 was brought into the local economy thanks to the festival.

The Ballantrae Trust commissioned the Economic Impact Study carried out by MKA Economics. The festival has run since 2015 only missing in 2018, and this year was the first time that it ran over two days.

The popular festival is organised by a committee of volunteers from the village.

Committee Chair, Dr Mhairi McKenna, says that the variety of food and drink producers was one of the main attractions that brought almost 3,000 visitors to the village.

She said: “We had everything from speciality teas, coffees, gins and other beverages to fish, meat, pies, chocolate and cakes. There was street food on offer which was also a great success, as were the foraging events and cookery demonstrations; not to mention the youngsters, and their parents, found the kite making great fun.”

Plans are already underway for the 2020 festival, taking place over the weekend of June 14 and 15 which coincides with World Gin Day on the Saturday.

There are plans to expand the street food stalls and activities for the children.

The organising committee is on the lookout for volunteers to help at the event. If you would like to get involved please contact ballantraetrust@gmail.com