Isle of Man: It's Time to Get Out Those Baking Bowls for the Annual World Bonnag Championships!

Got a few hours to spare and fancy trying something new and creative? Then it's time to reach back into the hidden depths of your kitchen cupboards and seek out those favourite, family bonnag recipes, in readiness for the Annual World Bonnag Championships in Dalby later this month.

Not unlike it's Irish cousin, the soda bread, bonnag is a traditional yeast-free food item which was much-loved on the Manx farmhouse table long before the ubiquitous chips, cheese and gravy became a preferred choice for hungry islanders.

With numerous awards on offer for the best examples of this rural favourite, there are separate trophies for gents, ladies and children's classes, with the Isle of Man Creamery Buttermilk Trophy (and the honour of being named world champion) awarded to the overall winner.

But professional bakers and caterers are also encouraged to contribute their own tasty bonnag under a new category implemented last year, with the winner walking away with the Shoprite Trophy.

Those willing to take up the challenge are asked to turn up on the night with their bonnag on a paper plate, inscribed with name and category under the base for easy reference.

Each bonnag will be judged during the evening, as the audience enjoys some Manx entertainment by The Wandering Players, presenting Them Oul' Times through poetry, prose and song. In addition there'll be a fine Dalby supper followed by auction of all the bonnag entries.

Starting at 7.30pm on the 27 March at St James Church in Dalby, prior booking is essential by phoning Gilly on 844031 during working hours; tickets £7.50.

Proceeds from the evening will be divided between the St James Church Restoration Fund and this year's selected charities, Women's Aid (IOM) and Mannin Sponsors Africa, helping to provide wells in Gambia.

Further enquiries to Margy on 834768.

www.stjamesdalby.org

Valerie Caine
© March 2015