Celebrity chefs Mitch Tonks and Mark Hix have come on board for this year’s Isle of Man Queenie Festival.

The TV personalities will be entertaining the crowds, providing demonstrations and cooking up a storm throughout the week-long festival of events. 

Between writing books and appearing in his latest TV show, ‘Mitch and Matt’s Big Fish’, Mitch Tonks is an award winning restaurateur and fishmonger. His knowledge and expertise of seafood is second to non and his attendance at the second annual Queenie Festival will be a real treat for festival-goers.

As well as cooking barbeques and entertaining the crowds, leading chef, author and TV personality Mark Hix, will use his experience as a finalist of the BBC’s Great British Menu to judge this year’s Manx Queenie recipe competition alongside Mitch.

It will certainly take something special to amaze Mark, who has worked as Head Chef and Executive Head Chef for a number of Michelin graded restaurants including Le Caprice and The Ivy in London.

Mitch and Mark will be making up part of the judging panel for the public and hospitality Queenie recipe competitions that are currently open for everyone who fancies trying their hand at becoming an award-winning Chef.

They will be a lively presence at Marine Day and cooking up a treat on the barbeque at the ‘Love Your Beach’ day on Friday 3rd July at Port Erin Beach. Tickets will be available from Paddy’s Market in Port St Mary and at The Bay in Port Erin.

Isle of Man Queenie Festival organiser Tim Croft commented 'We are absolutely delighted to have two guests as well renowned as Mitch and Mark attend this year’s festival. Aside from their celebrity TV statuses, both have earned tremendous accolades for their contributions to the British Food world.

'It really is a fantastic opportunity for the Manx public to see and taste what Britain’s finest have to offer.'

The Isle of Man Queenie Festival, taking place from the 29th June to 5th July 2009, has daily events throughout the festival to appeal to adults and children.

With competitions, big prizes, barbecues, bay swims and the chance to see and taste fantastic creations from two of the Britain’s top chefs, there is sure to be something for everyone.

For more information visit the Isle of Man Queenie Festival website at www.queeniefestival.com or call Tim Croft on 834494.

Pictured: Award-winning restaurateur Mitch Tonks