SCOTTISH SHOPPERS are to be encouraged to buy Scottish this Christmas, and support Scotland's farmers and crofters.

Promotional events are planned for Motherwell and Inverness next weekend, where NFU Scotland's regional teams will be promoting Scottish produce and showing consumers what local specialities are available by providing tasters and samples.

The union’s Forth and Clyde regional team will be wearing their Christmas hats at Aldi, Motherwell on Saturday, December 10, between 11.30am to 1.30pm, and on Saturday, December 17, the team from the Highlands will be present at Inverness farmers' market from 11am to 1pm, with roast lamb rolls, with help from Forbes Farm Fresh, Nairn, and Debbie McBean, of the mart.

NFU Scotland’s supply chain policy manager John Armour commented: “At a time of year when farmers and crofters are working hard to ensure you have food on your plate on Christmas Day, what better way to support them than to buy fresh, Scottish produce.

“Many continue to feed the beasts, milk the cows, and work on the farm during Christmas Day, and we’d ask consumers to show appreciation by making sure their festivities are as Scottish and local as possible.

“The up and coming promotional days are just two of many we’ve held this year to speak to shoppers directly. Many don’t realise the abundance of high-quality, local produce available right on their doorsteps, at affordable prices."