It seems three-quarters of Isle of Man residents often buy locally produced food.

That's one of the findings of a comprehensive survey of the Island's food market, commissioned by the newly reformed Agricultural Marketing Society and carried out earlier this year.

The survey targeted a random sample of 1,500 households via the internet and provides a fascinating insight into the purchasing habits of local residents and their thoughts on Manx food.

AMS board member Heather Smallwood says one of the aims was to help farmers understand where opportunities might present themselves in the coming years.

It's also no surprise to learn that, when it comes to buying local, a competative price is important (play attached audio file):

The survey also showed the "I love Manx" campaign and the three legs symbol were readily recognised and understood and residents rated very many local products highly in terms of quality and value for money.

(Picture: A recent "I love Manx" promotion at the Isle of Man College).