Be shellfish and promote Scottish fare

TOURISM minister Jim Mather, executive chef John McWhirter and chief executive of Scotland Food and Drink Paul McLaughlin launch a year-long celebration of Scots food.

The Government will provide 500,000 to fund events promoting Scotland as a land of food and drink.

Mr Mather said yesterday: "Tourism is playing a vital role in Scotland's recovery and was instrumental in our recent return to growth, having a significant economic impact during the year of Homecoming.

"It makes economic sense to build on this success by spotlighting some of Scotland's greatest assets."

Scottish produce will be showcased at June's Royal Highland Show and October's BBC Good Food Show Scotland, among other events.