CHEFS from 1 Rifles at Beachley will be one 'special' item you won't want to miss on the menu at this year's autumn Forest Food Showcase on Sunday (October 2, 10am-5pm) at Speech House.

The best of the Forest area's food and drink will also be featured in the popular annual event, which this year promises to be bigger and better than ever in spite of a looming funding crisis.

"Whether you are a serious food fanatic or someone who just appreciates good food and drink there's more than enough at our Forest showcase to ensure that you, and your friends and family, have a great time," says organiser Amnda Smith.

"There's a wonderful festival atmosphere – and you'll certainly be able to taste the difference."     

On offer is an interesting mix of over 50 producers, themed demonstrations and special promotions. There will be everything from cheese and chutneys to ice cream and hot sausages, wild boar and local venison, artisan breads and plenty of ciders, wines and beers to accompany them.

YeeHaa Outdoor Pursuits will be at the event for the first time, and they will be teaching skills to any young people interested in fire lighting and bushcraft, as well as cooking over an open fire.

The chefs from 1 Rifles will be offering tasters of ration packs in return for a donation to their a Swift and Bold Appeal.

A 1 Rifles masterchef will also be cooking up a special dish to launch the "Cook for the Cause" recipe file, made up of tasty recipes donated by Michelin star chefs, local school children and producers, and well known food fanatics such as Kate Humble, Adam Henson and Alex James from Blur.

The appeal is to provide much needed immediate support for families of lost and seriously injured soldiers who are based at Chepstow but are currently deployed in Afghanistan.

Swift and Bold wristbands will be on sale at the event, plus an opportunity to purchase the unique Cook for the Cause Recipe File before it is promoted nationally.

•With a subsidy from the Forest of Dean District Council discontinued, Showcase organisers say they remain confident they can run another event next year with help from suppliers and local businesses.

"A lot depends on how well we do this year – so please try to come along and make it an even bigger success," said Amanda.