The first Best of Britannia fair showcased established and emerging British talent in music, design and entrepreneurship in Clerkenwell last weekend.
The brainchild of Dragon’s Den investor, Deborah Meadon, the three day exhibition at Farmiloe House aimed to cure Olympic hangovers by re-igniting the energy of London 2012. Visitors were treated to a variety of stalls, offering everything from marmalade vodka to speedboats.
Chief organiser Joe Pidgeon said: “London 2012 offered a fantastic feel good factor but missed a big opportunity to help promote British manufacturers and designers. Rather than stimulate business in this country, the merchandise was largely made elsewhere.
This year, of all years, we wanted to give British brands, designers and manufacturers the chance to put themselves on the map, gain an audience, and show everyone that Great Britons are not only found on the track and field.”
Songwriter Guy Chambers, who produced hits for Robbie Williams, Miles Kane and Kylie Minogue, helped assemble a line-up of musical talent to watch out for in 2013. Acts including They Say Jump, Jessica May York and the much hyped Janice Graham Band performed over three stages.
Further entertainment included the UK’s first ever live hologram performance, featuring songstress Paloma Faith.
Clerkenwell local and critically acclaimed jewellery designer, Jessica De Lotz, launched a new range of jewellery using miniature wax seals at the exhibition. Items from her collections are commonly featured in fashion magazines and worn by celebrities. Last month, Tulisa, the X Factor judge, wore one of her necklaces during the televised live shows.
There are plans to make the fair an annual event after 7,000 people attended last weekend.
