WIE helps market gardener sow seeds of success

Western Isles Enterprise has recently approved a development grant of £900 and a business start up allowance of £1,500 to Denise Bridge from Kilbride, South Uist to launch a herb, fruit and vegetable growing business.

The development grant will assist Mrs Bridge to buy poly tunnels which are essential for commercial market gardens as product needs to be planted early if they are to be ready for the busiest times during the summer.

Mrs Bridge relocated to South Uist with her husband in December 2002 and has many years of experience of small scale horticulture.  During her time in Uist she has seen the need for the sale of home grown herbs, fruit and vegetables especially during the summer months to visitors and locals alike.  She will also be preparing small potted plants and shrubs for sale.  All will be sold directly to the public from her home which is on the main route from the Eriskay ferry to Benbecula. 

Isabel Macdonald, Uist Area Manager from Western Isles Enterprise said: "WIE welcome this expansion of a current horticultural business noting its alignment with the Action 35 initiative which aims to maximise and diversify crofting income in the Western Isles.  This horticultural business is an example of such and at the same time helps satisfy a local market demand."