Growing local food proves popular in Argyll, Bute and Lochaber

Three Grow Local training days set up for local food growers and producers in Argyll, Bute and Lochaber are proving popular. The Highlands and Islands Local Food Network (HILFN) has organised three Grow Local days - 7 March in Lochgilphead, 8 March in Oban and 9 March in Fort William. Each session provides local growers with expert advice and practical tips on how to produce local food and sell it locally.

Calina MacDonald, HILFN production adviser said: "We have been delighted with the interest so far in these sessions.  Interest has come from throughout the area, from Kintyre and the Isle of Bute in the south to the offshore islands of Coll and Colonsay.  We will be working with these prospective growers and producers to help them meet the strong demand for fresh food in the area."

Speakers at the sessions will include Jo Hunt and Calina MacDonald from HILFN, looking at the market for local food and using practical examples of successful enterprise from Calina's native Skye and other areas of the Highlands and Islands. There will also be representatives from Argyll Agricultural Forum, Argyll and Bute Council and local enterprise companies who will highlight business opportunities and support for local producers. The morning session on each day will be rounded off with workshops to discuss participants' own business ideas.

The afternoon of each day will include a visit to a local producer or farm shop, so that the new growers and producers can share the experience of someone running a successful local food business.

Calina MacDonald said, "As well as providing an interesting and informative day about the potential for local food, we are looking for each day to bring out new growers in the area, who we can work with to increase the supply of fresh local food."

There are still some places left on the sessions. Places cost just £11.75 per person, and anyone who would like to book or get further information should either contact Caroline on 01381 600525 or book via the www.hilocalfood.net website.

The courses are funded by the Scottish Agricultural College and the EU through the Highlands and Islands Partnership Programme, and are supported by Highlands and Islands Enterprise.