* This Saturday marks the first Witney Festival of Food and Drink. Taking place around the iconic St Mary’s Church and Church Green, a variety of stalls will demonstrate the amazing abundance of quality food and drink produced in Oxfordshire in this flourishing market town.

The festival will officially be opened by comedic legend and Pointless presenter Alexander Armstrong, before numerous foodie treats that will take place throughout the day – cooking demonstrations from local experts, free talks from restaurateurs and food producers and, of course, the stalls, which feature everything from cupcakes to hog roasts. Check out witneyfoodfestival.com for more information.

* With the upcoming festival in mind, Witney Lakes Restaurant is holding an extra special foodie night this evening to kick off the festivities early. Everything about the menu boasts locally sourced ingredients, so you won’t have to look far to know where your meal comes from; nor will you have to break the bank, as two quality courses cost just £16.

The main is a loin of lamb from West Oxfordshire farms, with seasonal asparagus from Rectory farm and minted creme fraiche from Church Hanborough – the mint is from Witney Lakes’ own garden! For pudding, indulge in Rectory Farm rhubarb crumble or cheese from Rodger and Karen Crudge in Kingham. To book a table, call Lauren on 01993 893012.

* For National Vegetarian Week, Giraffe on George Street are offering 2-for-1 on all veggie mains from May 20-24. These include the delicious ‘Western’ omelette with roasted veg and manchego cheese, the ‘Deluxe’ falafel burger and the roasted vegetable and black bean burrito. Just print off your two for one voucher from giraffe.net/classic/ promotions and you’ll get the cheaper dish of your choice for free! Book a table at Giraffe in Oxford by calling 01865 201030.

* To match their new Spring menu, Prezzo in the Oxford Castle have introduced a range of tasting wines for diners to try. Each comes served in a 125ml glass and is accompanied by mixed olives and ciabatta. The hearty Italian reds are Prezzo Sangiovese, Valle Antia Chianti and Morellino di Scansano; fruity and aromatic white wines are of the Verdicchio, Fiano and Chenin Blanc varieties. There are also a pair of rose and one sparkling wine: Rosato Veronese, Pinot Grigio Rose and Prosecco. Call 01865 791748.

* Nick Gladwin has added another string to his entertainment bow and following a successful time spent running the Baby Simple bar, based on the Cowley Road, he has launched Bar Simple. Providing stylish mobile bars in and around Oxfordshire, Bar Simple is suited to any type of occasion including weddings, private or corporate parties, balls and festivals. Visit barsimple.co.uk