THOUSANDS of taste-testing foodies have enjoyed a day out in the sunshine at the Colchester Food and Drink Festival.

Gazette: Colchester Food and Drink Festival Colchester Food and Drink Festival (Image: Steve Brading)

Colchester Food and Drink Festival, the biggest of its kind in the region, kicked off in Lower Castle Park today for day one of a two-day event.

Gazette: Colchester Food and Drink Festival Colchester Food and Drink Festival (Image: Steve Brading)

It saw guests sample a range of mouth-watering bites to eat from a range of different stages.

Gazette: Colchester Food and Drink Festival Colchester Food and Drink Festival (Image: Steve Brading)

There was also a number of beverages on offer too.

Gazette: Colchester Food and Drink Festival Colchester Food and Drink Festival (Image: Steve Brading)

This was all presented in a range of stalls, bars, vans and more.

Gazette: Colchester Food and Drink Festival Colchester Food and Drink Festival (Image: Steve Brading)

Visitors were able to soak up the sun and relax in the wonderful atmosphere of this much-loved festival.

Gazette: Colchester Food and Drink Festival Colchester Food and Drink Festival (Image: Steve Brading)