IN 2015 more than 12,000 people visited Vegfest 2015.

And with 200 stalls, 15 caterers and a vegan comedy festival on offer at the Brighton Centre, in King’s Road for this year’s event, organisers are hoping to smash that record.

Now in its eighth year, Vegfest, which is on Saturday, February 27, and Sunday, February 28, is about promoting the vegetarian lifestyle in a fun and accessible way.

“It’s VegfestUK’s wish to inspire activists for animals all over the globe by showcasing creative peaceful vegan education,” says founder Tim Barford.

“We see this as a cornerstone of animal rights advocacy and it is our aim to demonstrate creative ways of vegan education that engages people and gets them thinking about going vegan – and most importantly, forms of advocacy that everyone can do in their own communities.”

New features at this year’s event include summits focused on teachers and vegan activists, encouraging discussions and workshops in communities, schools and universities, as well as the FxEctive contest where activists will be showing off their persuasive talents for a £1,000 top prize.

"It's fantastic to see the continued growth of demand for a vegan ethos that puts justice for both human and non-human animals at the forefront of our agenda to make the world a better place,” says Vegfest operations manager Dr Alan Lee.

“People all over the UK are warming to the idea that veganism is actually a joy instead of sacrifice, and most importantly no non-human animals are used in the process.

“At VegfestUK, we are balancing a clear vegan message with lots of fun activities in store for an amazing day out for all.

“Whether you are already vegan or not, you'll find lots of interesting features at the show which will leave you hard-pushed not to warm to veganism!"

The weekend will also feature cookery demonstrations, kids activities, a LifeWell SuperHub promoting holistic approaches to wellbeing and live music.

Single vegans can take part in a free speed dating event on Sunday from 1pm, run by Karin Ridgers from Veggie Vision, which also includes a glass of bubbly.

On Sunday there will be live comedy sets from vegan comics Jake Yapp, Carl Donnelly, Andrew O’Neill, Lou Sanders and music journalist John Robb.

Advance tickets cost £5 per day or £8 for the weekend. On the door prices are £8/£4 concessions. Under 16s are free.

For more information visit www.brighton.vegfest.co.uk/