THE hottest event of the year is back in South Cumbria - Holker Chilli Festival returns for a fourth year this September.

Whether you’re a fiery food fanatic or a chilli newbie, the new trend for specialist chilli events across the country gives everyone the chance to experience the delights of the Capsicum.

The entertaining combination of chilli plants and produce, speciality food and good old family fun takes place on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10, and is held in the bustling Holker Courtyard, which welcomed more than 4,000 people to last year's festival.

If variety is the spice of life, you’ll be spoilt for chilli choice with a wide selection of growers and businesses attending from across the country, allowing you to buy plants and seeds, as well as sample some of the finest food on offer from handmade curries to Italian street food – there’s even cooling iced-smoothies and handmade ice cream to calm the palate.

Of course, there is the obligatory chilli eating competition; watch the Scoviles soar as those with a strong stomach battle it out to try some of the world’s hottest chillies – taking place at 4pm each day with Darth Naga.

Visitors will be entertained across the whole weekend with the Taste of Cairo belly dancers, live music and cookery demonstrations where you could pick up a few tips on how to incorporate chilli flavours into your home-cooking, plus Andy Jester will be entertaining the crowds with fire eating and stilt walking.

Opening times are 10.30am to 5pm, and entrance is payable on the day. Children under 16 go free when accompanied by an adult.

Holker Hall and Gardens will be open during the festival, and discounted admission charges apply.

For more information, visit www.holker.co.uk or phone 015395 58328.