Food festival cancellation: 'One size doesn't fit all'

DEFA Minister says one big annual event doesn't suit all local producers

The mixed reaction from Manx food producers to the cancellation of this year's Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival shows the diversity of needs for local businesses.

That's the view of the Environment, Food and Agriculture Minister Clare Barber, who says concern over rising ticket prices and the impact of adverse weather were among the reasons this year's event has been scrapped.

Instead, her department will be putting on an event for producers to meet buyers, and she says the festival could return in a different form in the future.

Concerns have been raised by some about the impact the loss of the event will have on their businesses.

However, Minister Barber believes having one big annual event doesn't suit everyone: