NEW FILM SERIES UNVEILS STIRLING’S HIDDEN CULINARY HERITAGE

To mark the 900th anniversary of the Royal Burgh of Stirling, Forth Valley Food and Drink has launched a series of four captivating short documentaries that delve into the lesser-known stories of Stirling’s rich food and drink heritage.

The first episode of Forth Valley Food Tales premieres today (Wednesday 14 August) on the network’s Facebook and YouTube channels kicking off a journey that will reveal surprising and fascinating aspects of Stirling’s history that are often overlooked by historians.

Funded by Scotland Food and Drink’s Regional Food Fund, the films uncover a range of unexpected tales, including:

• Kippen’s Grape Legacy: Discover Kippen’s claim to fame as the home of the world’s largest grapevine.
• Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Cure: Learn how a medicinal posset restored Bonnie Prince Charlie’s health at Bannockburn House.
• Stirling’s Secret Pies: Explore the mysterious symbols found on Stirling’s historic pies.
• The Stirling Jug: Learn about the Stirling or Scots pint, the burgh’s oldest surviving object.
• Scotland’s Smallest Whisky Distillery: Uncover the royal connections of Scotland’s smallest whisky distillery.
• Stirling Castle’s Epic Feasts: Relive the elaborate three-day feasts at Stirling Castle, featuring Scotland’s first fireworks display.

Lesley Wilkinson of Stirling PR, who co-produced the films with Bill Bruce of Different Voice, commented on the project: “It’s been exciting to uncover the stories that have shaped the region’s food and drink heritage over the centuries.

“Through our collaboration with Stirling archaeologist Murray Cook and a series of interviews with local experts, we’ve unearthed intriguing tales that offer a fresh perspective on the Royal Burgh’s history.

“These films provide a unique opportunity to discover aspects of Stirling’s rich past that you may not know, while also highlighting the dynamic food and drink innovations happening today.”

Head of Regional Food for Scotland Food & Drink, Fiona Richmond praised the project: “I couldn’t be prouder of the incredible work undertaken by the Forth Valley Food & Drink regional food group in bringing these remarkable films to life.

“These documentaries are a perfect celebration of Stirling’s rich culinary heritage, stretching back over 900 years, while also spotlighting the vibrant and innovative food and drink businesses thriving today.

“By fostering a deeper connection to our local history and supporting both established and emerging producers, these films truly capture the spirit of community that lies at the heart of the region.”

Three more episodes will be released in the lead-up to Forth Valley Food and Drink Festival, which takes place at Stirling’s Forthside Square – across from the Engine Shed – on Saturday 24 August from 10am-5pm; with over 50 stalls, chef demos and fun family activities on offer.

Stirling Council Leader, Cllr Chris Kane said: “These films shed new light on Stirling’s fascinating food and drink history as we celebrate our 900^th anniversary.

“From farmers and chefs to brewers and bakers, the remarkable stories of the people in the films show how food and drink are vital to understanding our social and cultural history.

“They also celebrate Stirling’s vibrant and diverse food and drink scene in the present day with the sector a key part of the regional economy.

“Watching the videos will leave you hungry for more, so why not head to the Forth Valley Food and Drink Festival on Saturday 24 August to sample some of the best food and drink we have to offer.”

Join us for Forth Valley Food and Drink Festival on 24 August 10am-5pm at Forthside, next to the Engine Shed.