The deadline for food and drink producers to enter three major events to showcase their wares to thousands of customers is looming.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture is inviting food and drink producers to apply for stands at the Southern Agricultural Show, the Royal Manx Agricultural Show and the Isle of Man Food and Drink Festival.

Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said: ’These three events attract huge crowds, eager to sample and purchase Isle of Man food and drink, and are a great forum for established and new businesses to promote high quality local products.’

The Southern Show is held on July 29 and 39 at Great Meadow, Castletown, the Royal Show on August 11 and 12 at Knockaloe near Peel and the Isle of Man Food and Drink Festival on September 16 and 17 at the Villa Marina Gardens in Douglas.

Food and drink exhibited should be grown, reared, caught, brewed, pickled, baked or smoked in the Isle of Man or, where processed, contain ingredients from the island.

Producers can download application forms from www.gov.im/manxfood (shows) and www.gov.im/food (festival), ring 685856 or email [email protected]

The deadline for applications is April 28.