Notice: Downton Abbey Star To Open Vegan Fair In Woking

Published on: 3 May, 2018
Updated on: 3 May, 2018

Downton Abbey actor and well known advocate of animal welfare, Peter Egan, will give the opening address at the third annual Surrey Vegan Fair in Woking on Saturday, May 19.

Peter Egan will welcome visitors to the event, where they can browse stalls and listen to talks from a packed line-up of guest speakers. Joining him to give the keynote address will be vegan chef and author Keith Squires.

Keith Squires said: “I am delighted to be heading over to Woking to be the keynote speaker and open the fair with Peter. The fair is for everyone who likes to try something new and different.”

Organised by local group Surrey Vegan, the fair will host more than 50 stalls offering food and drinks, ethical clothing, cruelty free skincare, beauty and lifestyle products, recycled goods and much more, as well as information from animal and conservation charities. The event promises to be a great day out for the whole family.

Surrey Vegan hosted its first annual fair in November 2016 at The Guildford Institute. Surrey Vegan moved to a new home at the HG Wells in Woking in 2017. Event co-ordinator Frin Moodie said: “The fair is a great place for anyone with an interest in eco-friendly living or plant-based food. Whether you’re interested in ethical clothing, looking for information about healthy eating, or wondering what on earth to cook for your vegan relatives when they visit, we know there will be something for everyone.

“We’re aiming to give a boost to small local businesses and start-ups, and really showcase the massive array of creativity and choice available. We’re also thrilled to be able to support the amazing work of animal charities and organisations.”

The popularity of vegan food has grown in recent years. According to latest research, there are now 3.5 million vegans in the UK, and an even greater number of people choosing to cut down on meat (31%) and dairy (19%) products. The major supermarkets have each expanded their range of vegan-friendly products, and increasing numbers of pubs and restaurants now offer vegan menus.

Surrey Vegan Founder Louise Simpson said: “Last year’s fair attracted over 800 visitors, and we’re expecting even more through the doors this time around. Since Veganuary this year we have seen a huge rise in the number of members on our Surrey Vegans UK Facebook Group, which now boasts over 1.000 members, and rising every week. This is our biggest and busiest event of the year, and we’re all set for a day of really hard work and a warm, positive and friendly atmosphere as always. We trust lots of people will come along, see what’s on offer, enjoy themselves and maybe learn something new.”

The fair will take place in the H G Wells Conference and Events Centre from 10am until 5pm. Those unable to attend the fair on the May 19 can keep an eye out for the Surrey Vegan monthly markets, taking place in towns across the county. Visit www.surreyvegan.co.uk for details.