Isle of Man: Whisk Out Those Baking Bowls and Support the Annual Bonnag Championships at Dalby!

Bonnag is synonymous with the Isle of Man and perhaps even more so with St James Church in the village of Dalby, where the Annual World Bonnag Championships have been held for more years than the organisers care to remember!

Each year keen amateur bakers wend their way to the west coast of the Island to compete in this popular event, in the hope of winning one of three categories; gents, ladies or children. And in addition one of those lucky winners will be presented with the Buttermilk Trophy awarded by the Isle of Man Creamery as overall champion. But this year there’s an extra category to attract the professional baker and caterer with a new trophy.

The interpretation of what constitutes as a bonnag in catering establishments across the Island has widened in recent years, and the Dalby organisers of the World Championships are keen to maintain the true identity of the simple wholesome, old-fashioned Manx bonnag. Traditionally an un-yeasted bread handed down from well-worn family recipes, it is a staple food of the Manx farmhouse table and much-loved at country events.

The evening also includes a selection of Manx entertainment hosted by John Kennaugh, and a generous supper; which might include a slice or two of bonnag. Judging of the competition entries (which should be on a paper plate with your name under the base) will take place during the interval.

Cheques will also be presented on the night by the Friends of St James Church to The Friends of Robert Owen House and The Malawi Mission Project concluding fundraising activities during 2013.

The evening will draw to a close with a mighty auction of all bonnags entered for the competition, with a proportion of money raised divided between the new Breast Cancer Unit for Noble’s Hospital and the overseas charity School for Uganda.

The Annual World Bonnag Championships will be held at 7.30pm on the 28th March with a charge of £7.50 on the door, but get there early if you want a seat.

Further information is available from Margy by phoning 834768.

www.stjamesdalby.org

Valerie Caine
© March 2014 (inc photos)