Food is often closely associated with particular regions and forms an important part of local culture as well as contributing significantly to a visitor’s experience. Given the Isle of Man’s past history as a holiday destination and the many benefits of local food and drink production, DEFA has commissioned research to define and describe the role that locally produced food has, and is, playing in Manx culture.
 
The research is being carried out by the University of Liverpool’s Centre for Manx Studies and will cover the late nineteenth to the early twentieth centuries.  As well as examining historical sources, researcher Anne Connor would love to hear from anyone with information (for example, photos, posters, anecdotes) on the use of local produce during this time and the extent to which it was, or was not, promoted to visitors. Anne can be contacted on anneconnor80@hotmail.com before 30 September 2012 so that a final report can be prepared for DEFA by the end of November.
 
Once the report has been completed, DEFA will use the information to create promotional material to build pride in this aspect of Manx culture and generate additional sales opportunities for local producers. DEFA Minister Phil Gawne, MHK said: “Manx food and drink has evolved over time and continues to do so. I’m sure that the research will reveal much fascinating information which we can build on to produce compelling stories about this industry, to the benefit of producers now and for the future. I would urge anyone with information to contribute to this project and help us to create a story worth telling”.