As you will have heard, the good news for farmers, consumers and Isle of Man Meats is that you can buy locally produced Manx meat at Tesco once more. Look out for ’Make Sure It’s Manx’ signage and branding in the meat aisle.

Local farmer and Isle of Man Meats procurement officer Kirree Kermode said: ’We as farmers are absolutely delighted with the news, it is a huge achievement for us all. It’s essential Isle of Man Meats continues to find new customers like Tesco as their sales impact the demand for our livestock.

’We can produce all the stock in the world but without sales for it, especially locally, it’s very nearly pointless. Once you get forced down the export route there comes a raft or even more uncertainties.

’I believe it’s important that farmers build strong relationships with their outlets and work together, especially in this day and age when competition is fierce, squeezing every penny out of already tight margins.

’As farmers we are very proud to supply our island’s people with quality, Manx-raised products hitting the highest of welfare standards and having the lowest food miles.’

Neil Connell, Tesco Douglas store manager, said: ’This is an important affiliation for Tesco to support the local farming community.

’We know that there is a demand for locally produced, high-quality meat - and more and more consumers are becoming aware of the fact that supporting local farmers is good for the local economy. We’re pleased to see Manx meat on our shelves, with joints available in the first instance.

’The timing couldn’t be better with Christmas around the corner.’