Visitors to the National Eisteddfod in Ebbw Vale this week can taste and buy some of the award-winning food and drink produced in Wales at the event’s new food hall – Y Pantri
The Rural Affairs Minister, Elin Jones has visited the Eisteddfod Maes to officially open Y Pantri, which has been created by the Welsh Assembly Government in partnership with Menter Môn cyf.
As well as providing a showcase for some of Wales’ best produce, Y Pantri – which is managed by Caffi Cart – includes a café and shop and is the focus of a series of food-related activities throughout the Eisteddfod week.
During her visit to the Eisteddfod the Minister also launched a new bi-lingual DVD promoting food tourism in Wales, which is being screened at Y Pantri.
Comprising of key message about the food tourism industry, the DVD highlights the importance of creating a ‘Sense of Place’ atmosphere for visitors to Wales, which is a key part of the Welsh Assembly Government’s Food Tourism Action Plan.
The DVD is the result of a joint initiative between the partners and stakeholders in the South East Food Tourism Group, and it will be used by partner organisations and private sector companies to promote the case studies and food tourism in Wales.
The film features four food and drink and tourist businesses and organisations: Tŷ Tanglwyst Dairy near Porthcawl; the Cardiff Bay’s Norwegian Church Arts Centre; the Bunch of Grapes pub in Pontypridd, which is owned by Otley Brewery; and Llansantffraed Court Hotel in Monmouthshire.
Elin Jones said:
“It’s great to be here in Ebbw Vale and I’m pleased to be able to open Y Pantri, which will bring the best of Welsh food and drink to Eisteddfod-goers. If you’re going to be visiting the Eisteddfod Maes this week, it’s well worth a visit.
“The Food Tourism Case Study DVD will be used to promote the use of quality Welsh Food and Drink as part of the visitor experience that tourists have whilst in Wales.
“The case studies give varied examples of how this can be achieved and demonstrate the different ways in which local producers can add value to their product and venues.”
