New funding to promote Highlands food and drink

Alex Salmond said showcasing local produce was important to the economy

New funding has been announced to help events in the Highlands to celebrate Scotland's Year of Food and Drink.

The Scottish government said the £25,000 would help encourage greater use of local produce.

Events to receive funding include September's Blas Festival and the Golden Spurtle World Porridge Making Championship in October.

The announcement was made in Dornoch, the location for one of four government cabinet meetings across Scotland.

Running until next May, the year of food and drink is a legacy of the Scottish government's Homecoming Scotland celebrations last year.

First Minister Alex Salmond said showcasing local produce was important to Scotland's economy.

He said: "The events in the Highlands that have been chosen to receive funding can help enhance Scotland's reputation as a land of food and drink.

"The food and drink sector is key to our economic recovery.

"Visitors to Scotland spend one pound in every five on food and drink-related activity and we produce some of the finest produce in the world."

The Royal National Mod in Thurso and Wick, Living Food in Cawdor and Baxters Loch Ness Marathon and Festival of Running have also been targeted with funding.