Scottish Government supports Festival

Smallholdings are an important part of the fabric of rural Scotland. The Festival organisers are delighted to announce that the event has received a major boost from a new partner that will help consolidate the event as the premier show for the smaller farmer and producer in Scotland.

For the next three years, the Scottish Government will support the Festival. This support recognizes the key role that smaller producers can play in Scotland’s rural economy, and reinforces the growing view that smallholders can make a real difference as part of the fabric of the farming landscape.

Cabinet Secretary for the Rural Economy & Connectivity, Fergus Ewing said:

 “Smallholdings are an important part of the fabric of rural Scotland. I wish the organisers an excellent event where they can help to support economic growth and jobs in the rural economy; and underpin key growth areas such as food & drink, energy and tourism.”

Rosemary Champion, from the Festival’s organizing team, reinforced this view

“Smallholders are often overlooked due to the size and nature of their enterprise, but many smallholders are playing a crucial niche role, whether it is in local produce, a focus on rare and traditional breeds of livestock, or bringing forward new innovative ideas. We are delighted that the Scottish Government has recognized this, and very pleased that they will be partnering with us over the next three years.”

The 2016 Festival will take place on Saturday 24th September at Lanark Agricultural Centre. Schedules of classes, entry forms and commercial packs are available now. The closing date for entries for livestock, poultry and waterfowl classes is Friday 2nd September.