The HIE-funded Highlands and Islands Local Food Network (HILFN) is holding a training event to help farmers and crofters across the region supply the growing customer demand for high quality locally produced meat.

The meat supply training day will be held on Wednesday 22nd February at Dingwall Mart and will be open to any producer interested in finding out more about selling their meat direct to consumers, from the farm, through local butchers or mail order.

The day will take participants through each step in the process of delivering meat from the farm to the local consumer. There will be visits to a local abattoir, butcher and caterer, as well as presentations from experts on marketing and hygiene regulations. Lunch will consist of locally produced food, served in the Plough Inn, Rosemarkie.

Hazel Gordon, processing advisor with the Food Network and organiser of the course, said: "This day will give farmers and crofters the chance to see first hand the processes involved in local meat supply and to speak directly to those involved. It will prove useful whether they are just thinking about local meat supply or already have a business underway."
 
The course is funded by the Scottish Agricultural College, with support from the European Social Fund and Highlands and Islands Partnership Programme, which means that the fee for the day is just £20 +VAT. Bookings can be made by contacting Caroline on 01381 600525 or book online at www.hilocalfood.net