Ketchup addicts are in for a shock as Sardinians show the world how many other uses there are for the humble tomato.

Between August 8th and 10th tomato farmers, vendors, cooks and fans gather in the town of Zeddiani to toast the red fruit's enduring versatility in a bustling fair.

Demonstrating just how serious these people are about their product, traditional festival entertainment of music, folklore and dance is put on hold.

Instead, the day focuses on showing off tomato recipes and sampling the tasty results as part of an enormous communal meal at the end.

A more general gastronomic fair - or mostra-mercato - accompanies the event to provide a little culinary variety.

Zeddiani is situated near the town of Oristano on the west coast of Sardinia. The stunning cathedral of St Mary and tower of St Columbus provide year-round reasons to visit.