A NEW Manchester date has been added to the Fantastical Chocolate Festival tour due to its overwhelming popularity.

Expect Willy Wonka levels of excitement with the festival bringing a mouthwatering selection of the finest artisan chocolate, chocolate fountains and fondues, candyfloss flowers, candy apples, ice-cream, giant chocolate eggs, bubble waffles and more under one roof.

With the January 26 session at Bowlers Exhibition Centre sold out and with the January 27 session down to its last 50 tickets, organisers have announced a third Manchester date on January 25.

The sweet treat for all the family will also feature live music, themed characters and story corners, free themed photo booths and chocolate sculpting.

Kids can also enjoy the arts and crafts station, chocolate egg decorating, chocolate tasting and the chocolate factory play zone, while the big kids among us can also indulge in some chocolate laced booze, including vodka, wine, gin and beers and alcoholic hot chocolate.

It’s pretty safe to say that the UK is a nation of chocolate lovers. We eat an estimated 660,900 tonnes of chocolate a year, an average of 11kg per person.

The events are split into two sessions, afternoon and evening, and tickets begin at £6 for youngsters and £9 for adults. Visit fantasticalchocolate.com