DAREDEVIL foodies are being invited to feel the heat at the return of the Colchester Chilli Challenge.

Taking place at Colchester Market, in High Street, competitors will be tasked with eating a series of progressively hotter and hotter dishes which have been freshly prepared by market stalwarts Mex Appeal and Peck.

Entry to the competition costs £10, including a Colchester Chilli Challenge T-shirt, and there is a hamper prepared by Beer Me Now up for grabs for the winner.

Trophies, created by Tom White of Sculpted Forest, will also be given to the winner and two runners up.

Martin Goss, councillor responsible for waste, environment and transportation, said: "Our market has a thriving food scene, with an excellent choice of dishes from all over the world.

“We want to attract visitors and residents to our market, which is why we put on a variety of events throughout the year.

"The market is a great place to pick up unique gifts and enjoy a great variety of foods.”

Colchester Chilli Challenge kicks off at 11am on Saturday, February 23.

Competitors must be aged 18 or above for health and safety reasons.

Visit www.facebook.com/ColchMarket.

More information about Beer Me Now can be found at BeerMeNow.co.uk.