Abergavenny's Food Festival and Christmas Food and Drink Fair are among a select group of food and drink festivals in south east Wales set to share in some new funding from the Welsh Government. The Minister for Natural Resources and Food, Alun Davies, has announced that over £71,203 is being provided to support nine festivals in the region in order to strengthen the nation's reputation as a producer of high quality food.   Overall a total of £184,000 has been announced by the Minister to showcase the best of Welsh food and drink at 28 festivals across the Principality.  Alun Davies said, "Food festivals are an excellent way of showcasing the best produce Wales has to offer and can help small, local food producers increase their customers and strengthen their business.  "Food festivals also attract thousands of people into the hearts of our towns and villages, providing a welcome boost to local businesses and the rural economy." He added: "High quality, distinctive food is a central part of our culture here in Wales and I am determined to help develop this culture to help our food and drinks industry thrive. "That is why I am launching a new action plan this spring that seeks to increase the profile and reputation of Welsh food and drink and deliver a 30% increase in the sector's turnover by 2020."