It is time to fish out the sardine nets again - the Surbiton Food Festival returns next month.

From the traditional opening event - the Seething sardine catch and barbecue - to the village fete packing out St Andrew's Square, the unorthodox festival will delight and confound during the first two weeks of May.

Restaurants and other businesses will vie for attention with games, tasting sessions and demonstrations, while Kingston Pound organisers will hope to spread the reach of their borough-based currency.

Robin Hutchinson, director of organising body the Community Brain, said: "This year's festival introduces new elements such as 'Foodie Films' as well as the fantastic competitions that are open to everyone.

"For two weeks [in] May Surbiton is the only place to be."

Also new to the festival this year is the mystery of the Seething pasty.

Organisers know the ingredients but need your help in pinning down the recipe. Go online to find the ingredients and present your effort at the village fete on May 10.

Surrey Comet: Sophie Welsh, five and Susannah Welsh, eight, finish second in the three-legged race

Sophie and Susannah Welsh at last year's Seething sports day

The final weekend of the festival will see the Seething sports day run alongside the Fun Dog Show, held in aid of Guide Dogs.

Games and advice are on offer, as well as awards including best puppy and dog that looks most like its owner.

Alison Persson, chairman of the Surbiton Business Community, said: "Over the past few years, the Surbiton Food Festival has offered friendly encouragement and support to individuals who wanted to get their food businesses started.

"It provides a platform for foodie entrepreneurs to work with other local businesses [and] an opportunity for businesses to engage with their current and future customers."

The Surbiton Food Festival will run from May 2 to May 17. Key events include:

  • Sunday, May 3: Seething Freshwater Sardine Festival, from 1pm to 6pm in Claremont Gardens
  • Saturday, May 9 and Sunday, May 10: Village fete and beer festival, from 12pm to 6pm in St Andrew's Square
  • Saturday, May 16: Maple Road Farmers' Market, from 9am to 1pm in Maple Road
  • Saturday, May 16: Seething Community Sports Day and Fun Dog Show, from 12pm to 4pm in Victoria Recreation Ground