Rural priorities funding for Orkney

Thirteen projects in Orkney are set to benefit from a total of almost £1 million in the latest round of Rural Priorities funding.

In all £20 million will be distributed across Scotland, £953,000 of which is being invested into projects in Orkney, which will back a range of schemes to support business development and rural enterprise across the region.

Among those in the county who are to receive funding are A and L Whyte of South Ronaldsay, who have been given £78,863 to invest in a new slatted court and slurry store.

Vetquoy Farms, of Twatt have been awarded £100,000 to build a new purpose built hen house and processing area. The Vetquoy investment will safeguard three family jobs.

Rural affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said:“This latest round of more than £20 million of Rural Priorities funding will provide much needed support to rural and community enterprises and businesses across rural Scotland. This investment will safeguard and create around 1,200 jobs across Scotland, vital to sustaining our rural economy.”