TICKETS for the Bolton Food and Drink Festival are selling fast — with seats sold out for the Hairy Bikers and just a handful of places left to see their fellow celebrity chefs.

Two-star Michelin chef Michael Caines is opening this year’s four-day festival, which starts on Friday, August 26, with TV favourites James Martin and Gino D’Acampo also making appearances.

Council leader Cllr Cliff Morris said: “With just weeks to go to our biggest festival to date, preparations are well under way.

“Tickets have been selling really well and the Hairy Bikers have already sold out.

“There are a handful left to see Gino and James in action and I’d urge people to reserve their seats while they can.”

The Hairy Bikers’ sold out shows take place on the Saturday, with Italian chef Gino D’Acampo entertaining crowds on the Sunday, and James Martin cooking on the final day.

All demonstrations take place at 11am, 1pm and 3pm and the shows last for 40 minutes. Tickets cost £5.

Michelin-starred chef Michael Caines will do two demonstrations at 12.30pm and 2pm on the Friday, and there is no charge for these shows.

A pop-up restaurant will also occupy the former Olive Press building in Nelson Square during the festival.

Chefs from the awardwinning Second Floor, in Harvey Nichols, Manchester, will take up residence in the vacant restaurant.

Tickets for cookery demonstrations can be bought from the Albert Halls box office on 01204 334400.