CLOSE TO a thousand school children converged on Glamis Castle yesterday to help open a weekend of events.

The attraction hosted the launch of Scottish Food Fortnight by cabinet secretary for rural affairs Richard Lochhead, who revealed a bright past year for Scotland’s food producers which saw demand on the rise.

Mr Lochhead spoke as Glamis prepared to host Scotland’s Countryside Festival today and tomorrow, with thousands of visitors expected to enjoy a programme showcasing the nation’s food, country pursuits, culture and attractions including the Devil’s Horsemen stunt-riding team.

Mr Lochhead said, “Consumers are becoming increasingly interested in the provenance of what they buy.

“They want to know where their food comes from and they want to support local producers.

“Supermarkets recognise this increased demand for Scottish food.

“I know that one leading supermarket has increased sales of Scottish products in Scotland by 20% and in the rest of the UK by 14% in the last year.

“The Scottish Government wants the freshest, finest future for Scottish food which is why we are busy developing Scotland’s first-ever national food and drink policy.

“The seismic shift in consumers’ preference for Scottish food shows that the public also want to do their bit to support the local producers.”

He added, “We are also seeing more people grow their own food for their own consumption and for local sale.

“Food prices are forcing us to turn back the clock and become more self- sufficient.”

Mr Lochhead announced plans to ensure Scotland’s reputation for food and drink was at the heart of next year’s Homecoming celebrations.

“Homecoming will celebrate some of Scotland’s great contributions to the world.

“Our food and drink is up among the best so we need to ensure those returning home next year get to sample it and become international ambassadors for our industry.

“The Scottish Government is therefore funding a post dedicated to ensuring food and drink is properly showcased during Homecoming.”

The launch took place amidst a programme for youngsters—many Tayside schoolchildren—who participated in interactive sessions and demonstrations as well as tasting Scotland’s finest produce.

Experts from 30 rural organisations taught the children about the abundance of wildlife in Scotland’s woodlands, moorlands and rivers.

The youngsters also enjoyed falconry, gun- dog and fly-fishing demonstrations, and learned about conservation, climate change and food production.