Trainees get weaving on bright future for Harris Tweed

Over the next 12 weeks, the first 12 trainees will be taught traditional skills practised by the islanders for centuries.

There will be lessons in the history of clo mhor (meaning "big cloth" in Gaelic), alongside instruction on how to assemble and maintain a loom. At the end of the course, successful students will get official accreditation allowing them to work as weavers.

The course is being delivered by Cardonald College, Glasgow, which has recruited two Harris Tweed weavers to pass on their skills in a Stornoway training centre.

Sam Goates, of Cardonald College, said: "The college worked with the industry to run a series of information sessions which gave people an opportunity to hear about the industry from the mills and from existing weavers. There is a strong interest in the weaving occupation and lifestyle."

Councillor Angus Campbell, chairman of the Harris Tweed Industry Forum, added: "There has been no formal mechanism for training new weavers over a decade or so. This project is essential in putting in place a structure to ensure new entrants meet an appropriate standard, which recognises the skills and craftsmanship required."