JOKERS have created a tourist brochure – for a Scottish island that does not exist.
The guide to Mama Westray, Orkney, claims it is famous for its “fish-eating pigs” and that actress Cate Blanchett is a regular visitor and keeps her “own pedal car in a garage at the airport”.
The joke is based on the fact that Orkney has a real island called Papa Westray.
But an unsuspecting tourist would probably be taken in by the spoof guide’s professional presentation and lavish detail.
The Orkney Tourism group today (Thurs) confirmed that the brochure was nothing to do with them and put it down to someone “trying to have a bit of mischievous fun”.
It remains unclear who created the brochure, which has appeared at various locations about the chain of islands.
The island’s fish-eating pigs are described as having been trained to “swim out into the bay and eat” any surplus fish that have been thrown overboard by fishermen.
It also states: “The younger pigs are fitted with buoyancy aids until they gain full confidence in the water.”
The non-existent island also sounds like a paradise of fine cuisine and can apparently provide visitors with a wide range of culinary experiences.
The brochure continues: “The harbour front restaurants are a great place to enjoy a meal out. The restaurants here have an international reputation.”
Below the description there’s a comically mocked-up image of Cate Blanchett sitting in what’s supposedly her own red pedal car, parked in front of Burger King, KFC and Pizza Hut.
Some have come to the conclusion that the spoof is inspired by the real island called Papa Westray.
Locals on the real island fear that because the fake brochure is so professionally produced, it may cause some confusion with their own promotional efforts.
Despite the fears, the prank has proved popular with Facebook users who have shared the comic creation.
Jon Southerington simply said: “Love it!”
Tracey Hawkes Pratt said: “Excellent”.
Whilst Anita Griggs was feeling amused and commented: “The islands are awash with talent.”
Ann Marwick, co-chair of Orkney Tourism Group, said: “We don’t know where this brochure has come from – it’s definitely not one of ours – but someone’s obviously been trying to have a bit of mischievous fun.
“Thankfully, we’ve got dozens of real islands in Orkney, with lots of genuine information available on our many attractions.
“If anyone’s looking to confirm the existence and location of any of our islands, they should visit our website at www.visitorkney.com”
