This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Minister visits north east
01/08/2006
Environment and Rural Development Minister Ross Finnie visited a community garden, leisure activity centre and leading cheese producer in Aberdeenshire today.
Mr Finnie was shown around the Methlick Community Garden which has been created by the local Formartine Partnership.
He then visited the Lochter Fishery and Activity Centre. The owners branched out from farming seven years ago and set up the centre which offers a range of exciting activities including off road driving, fishing and clay pigeon shooting.
Mr Finnie ended his tour at the award winning Craigmyle Cheese Company which produces hand made, organic cheese from cow's milk. The recently established firm has received 58 thousand pounds worth of funding from the Scottish Executive's Processing and Marketing Grant Scheme and has created four new jobs in the area.
Commenting on his visits, Mr Finnie said:
"The Methlick Community Garden is an excellent example of local people coming together to encourage the community to learn more about their local environment and help protect the plants and animals that make it unique.
"They have created a truly interesting and relaxing green space for local people and visitors to the area to enjoy."
"The owners of the Lochter Fishery and Activity Centre have transformed their farm business in just seven years, creating an exciting outdoor adventure facility which has created 20 jobs in the local community.
"I am committed to delivering a strong and diverse rural economy and the success of companies like the Lochter Fishery and Activity Centre can help us achieve that goal."
"The Craigmyle Cheese Company has only been trading since Christmas last year and has already won a Scottish Food & Drink Excellence Award for its delicious "Wummle" cheese.
"The company's success in targeting top quality niche markets has created jobs in the local community and is helping deliver a sustainable rural economy in Scotland."