THE Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Elisha McCallion, is calling on people across the district to back an online campaign to have Derry crowned the Foodie Town of Ireland.

The city has been shortlisted in the prestigious national industry competition which is organised by the Restaurants of Ireland and a public vote could sway the outcome.

With two weeks left to vote, Mayor McCallion urged local food fans to register their support online. “I am thrilled to see Derry shortlisted and I’ve already voted online.

“The city is undoubtedly establishing itself as a premier food destination and with the success of our recent food festivals, including the Flavours of the Foyle and the Legenderry Food Festival, our reputation continues to grow.

“I am a huge supporter of local restaurants and food producers and Council is committed to supporting and growing the food industry here in the North West.

“Winning the Foodie Town of Ireland title will gain further national recognition and enhance the city’s profile as a top destination for food tourism.”

The Foodie Town of Ireland competition recognises the efforts made to establish a location’s foothold in the food tourism market, through events and activities such as food festivals, gourmet trails and markets, as well as establishing a reputation for dining excellence.

Mary Blake Tourism Officer with Council who is leading the local campaign said: “We are delighted that our bid is through to the shortlisted stage. Derry is galvanised under the ‘LegenDerry Food’ mantra, promoting exceptional quality and locally sourced food.

“The ancient Walled City has many high quality and independently accredited restaurants along with quality cafes and delis.

“Eminent food critics such as Georgina Campbell have claimed that we are now justifiably flagged as the North West’s Gourmet Capital.

“Winning Foodie Town Ireland would be a real testament to the food revolution that has been taking place in our city over recent years.

“Voting for Derry will support all our hardworking chefs, artisan food producers, fishermen, farmers, restaurateurs and hospitality staff.”

Derry has been named among the top ten food destinations in Ireland and two independent assessors will now visit the city in the coming weeks to see what’s on the local menu. A national public vote will carry equal weight in the deciding the overall winner.

You can register your support for the local food industry by going to www.foodietowns.ie and voting before 5pm on October 2nd.