Q. When is a Guernsey not a Guernsey?

Answer:  "When its an imposter" Phone lines at BBC Radio Guernsey were hot today with lively discussions about the island's unique knitted seaman's sweater, known to us all as a Guernsey. We learned many things - they're not easy to make, it's a technique that needs to be taught, the art is dying out; to call the garment 'a Guernsey Sweater' is incorrect, it is simply a 'Guernsey' and even has its own entry in the English Oxford Dictionary. By definition, this means that whilst Guernsey style sweaters can be knitted anywhere in the world, a Guernsey can only be considered authentic if it originates out of Guernsey. In fact, it has been described as Guernsey's national costume. Put simply, there is no such thing as an Alderney Guernsey, or a Jersey Guernsey.   We heard that 'Imposter Guernsey's' are being made in Manchester and sold out as authentic.  Forgive the (k)nit picking, but whilst we take enormous pride in protecting our unique Guernsey cow (never a bit part Sark Guernsey Cow), it seems that the same cannot be said for our other national treasure, The Guernsey. This beggars the question - is it possible to protect production rights for authentic Guernsey's? It's a product that belongs to the island and an industry that could uniquely benefit the island. Why wouldn't we be possessive over the Guernsey?  Can we protect an important part of our heritage? We welcome your feedback and insight. The weaving machines (the noise!) ... a classic Guernsey ready to go Guernseys ... Ready to leave ... from Guernsey Many thanks to Arthur & team - an amazing 'tip of the iceberg' insight into a knitting industry that's belonged to the island since 1600's.