Allen leads food event

RACHEL Allen will appear as the celebrity chef at a top food festival in the Middle East next month.

The well-known author will set the menu for a special Irish themed dinner at the Gourmet Abu Dhabi festival.

The 40-year-old has already decided on a menu of potato soup, smoked salmon and Irish lamb.

"I am really looking forward to learning more about Arabic food and culture, as well as linking up with the many Irish people living and working in Abu Dhabi," said Ms Allen.