The growers behind the Seed Potato Organisation are quietly making progress and will be launching in the next few months.

Following a packed-out session at the Potatoes in Practice event, held near Dundee last month, and lots of discussions with growers over the summer, a co-operative is now formally being set up to support the British seed potato sector.

Those who want to help support the development of the seed potato sector are urged to sign up at: https://seed-potato-organisation.mailchimpsites.com/sign_up

Aberdeenshire grower Mike Wilson said: “There was a real buzz at Potatoes in Practice, and it has given us the confidence to go ahead with formally setting up the organisation. We are now securing the details of growers who are interested.

Peter Shiells, a grower from the Borders added: “We have spoken with many growers now and we are clear on what we need to do to support the seed potato sector going forward. If you haven’t already passed your details on to those on the steering committee, you can sign up on our website, or pick up the phone and speak with us.”

Jim Cargill, a grower from Kincardineshire, spelled out why there is a clear need for this organisation stating: “There is a real danger that without a body to support and develop the seed sector, it will lose out on opportunities and its reputation. Scottish seed potatoes are highly regarded internationally, and we want to build on that.” Ends

Notes for editors:

• Details on the Seed Potato Organisation can be found at https://seed-potato-organisation.mailchimpsites.com/