ENGLAND may have lost to Italy in the World Cup at the weekend but we still love Italian food.

A market selling olives, meats, cheese, pasta and herbs and spices straight from Italy popped up in Brewery Square, Dorchester.

It’s the sixth year Italia in Piazza has come to the county town, but the first time in Brewery Square.

And organiser Simon Faro said there was plenty of football banter to go round.

“We’re getting a lot of attention because of the football.

“This is authentic Italian food, which has come straight from Italy, is sold by Italians – and we’ve even brought some lovely Italian sunshine too.

“Having the food come straight from Italy makes such a difference as opposed to what’s made in other countries as ‘Italian’ food.

“We import from local Italian producers and farmers,” Simon said.

He added that bestsellers are things like extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Parma ham and parmesan.

“Usually when we’re in Dorchester we’re in South Street but this weekend with the carnival it’s Brewery Square.

“It looks lovely with all the flags. And of course the nice weather helps,” added Simon.

• ARE you the best pizza chef in the land?

A competition is now open to find the Pizza Chef of the Year 2014.

There are four categories in the Pizza, Pasta and Italian Food Association (PAPA) awards.

Written entries will be whittled down by a panel of judges before regional heats.

Winners will be announced at an awards dinner on November 14.

For entry forms send your name, postal address (including postcode) and telephone number to Pam Sainsbury before Friday July 4 2014.

Pam can be reached on pam@papa.org.uk or call 01291 636341. Visit papa.org.uk.