As part of its work of promoting Manx food and drink, the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture is offering local food and drink producers the chance to showcase their produce at three of the Island’s key food and agriculture events: the Southern District Agricultural Show (July 28th & 29th), the Royal Manx Agricultural Show (August 10th & 11th) and the Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival (September 22nd and 23rd).

The Department hosts Manx produce marquees at the two agricultural shows and manages the entire Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival as a showcase for the Island’s varied and tasty local food and drink products.

 To take part, the Department asks that all produce sold is grown, reared, caught, brewed, pickled, baked or smoked in the Isle of Man or, where processed, contains local produce.   “Local” means produce from the Isle of Man.

Application forms and further information can be obtained from DEFA by telephoning 685856 or email audrey.fowler@gov.im or download from http://www.gov.im/daff/food_and_farming/food.xml (shows) or http://www.gov.im/daff/food_festival/exhibitor_info.xml (Festival). The closing date for all applications is 11th May 2012.

DEFA Minister, Phil Gawne, MHK said: “an important aspect of my Department’s work is to promote produce which makes full use of our excellent Manx agriculture and seafood sectors. From quality meat, eggs, dairy, flour, vegetables, seafood and more, we can be proud of the provenance, taste, quality, safety and variety of food which we produce. By choosing Manx produce, everyone can support the local economy whilst enjoying great tasting food.  I hope that producers will take advantage of these opportunities to promote themselves to the many Manx people and visitors who attend these events”.