Mayo broadcaster in ‘circuitous drive’ to promote Irish showcase event

A shift towards more sustainable means of travel was a topic to the fore when Derek Reilly, popular Belmullet broadcaster and commentator on electric vehicles, took on a forefront role transporting entries to the 17th Blas na hEireann 2024 Irish Food Awards Festival, which takes place in Dingle from October 3 to to 5 next, in partnership with Bank of Ireland.

Driving an all-electric powered Mercedes-Benz eVito van, Reilly completed a ‘circuitous drive’ from Dublin to Dingle stopping at tea wholesaler, Nik’s Tea in Rathcoole, Couverture Desserts in Naas, G's Gourmet Jams in Abbeyleix, The Scullery sauce and relish in Nenagh, and Kearney's Home Baking in Ballyhahill to transport their products entered in the high-profile food festival.

Throughout, his journey and interviews with the food producers involved was filmed for broadcast on his high-profile NEVO YouTube channel.

The annual Blas na hEireann 2024 Irish Food Awards festival is described by Reilly as ‘the biggest competition for quality Irish produce on the island of Ireland’.

Highly regarded by Ireland’s growing body of artisan food producers, the festival is seen as ‘a central point to come together to celebrate the very best of Irish food and drink and raise their profile in the market’.