This year marks 200 years since the pip that grew into the first Bramley apple tree was planted in Nottinghamshire. Locally Bramley apples have been grown here since the early part of the 19th Century.
During a visit to the Bramley Apple Blossom Fair, at the Manor Estate and Country Park in Loughgall, the Minister spoke to many representatives from the local Bramley apple industry including growers, processors and packers.
Following a tour of the exhibitions at the event Minister Gildernew said:” It is a privilege to be able to celebrate the long tradition of apple production in the Orchard County and also mark the bicentenary of the Bramley apple. I appreciate the considerable work the industry has put in to make this event a success and I am pleased that my Department has been able to assist by offering support through our local Regional Food Programme. I have no doubt this fair will help raise the profile of the Armagh Bramley.
“It has been very encouraging to meet with a range of people from across the sector here this evening. Co-operation between all players within the supply chain is vital to the industry. As with many sectors, this year will be a challenging one for those in the production, processing and marketing of apples but I am sure that the people involved will meet these challenges head on. My Department will continue to work closely with the apple sector through ongoing support with technology transfer, training and supply chain development.”
At the Bramley Apple Blossom Fair Minister Gildernew also met well known and much acclaimed chef, author and TV presenter Darina Allen from Ballymaloe Cookery School, Co Cork. Darina showed off her considerable culinary skills demonstrating some of the many ways to use Bramley by providing recipes to try at home.
Notes to Editors:
- The Bramley Apple Blossom Fair has been organised by apple growers, processors and packers to mark the bicentenary of the Bramley apple.
- The Northern Ireland Regional Food Programme (NIRFP) aims to promote quality regional food and increase its consumption within Ireland and GB. The programme encourages all sectors of the agri-food industry to work together and provides financial assistance for eligible additional activities. Awards are made on a competitive basis.
- All media queries to DARD Press Office on 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
