IN A drive to encourage more people to support Scottish farmers and fishermen, Ministers have asked Christmas shoppers to think local and eat Scottish.

They will also announce significant new funding to support the food and drink sector including support for farmers’ markets and funding for Scottish companies to improve links with local suppliers.

Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said: "It’s fitting that as Scotland’s hugely successful Year of Homecoming draws to a close we are keeping up momentum by announcing additional support for one of the main reasons that people visit Scotland in the first place - our fantastic produce.

"This has been a hugely significant year for the food and drink sector with much to celebrate and be proud of, but we must build on this success if we are to reach our ambitious target of increasing its value to GBP10 billion by 2017.

"2010 promises to be a landmark year for food and drink, and we can get off to the best possible start and give local producers a massive boost by eating Scottish where possible this Christmas."

Wednesday’s Protected Food Name (PFN) seminar in Perth is being launched by Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham. PFN status provides legal protection from imitation on a geographical or traditional recipe basis at European level. It is widely recognised as a sign of true quality and has helped increase export sales.

Speaking ahead of the event, Ms Cunningham said: "Our seminar has attracted interest from across the globe and provides a welcome opportunity to exchange ideas about how we can help increase the number of PFNs in Scotland.

"We are determined to help businesses through the recession. The majority of the food and drink sector appears to be bucking the trend. Scottish food and drink exports are up eight per cent this year, and we’ve also seen a huge rise in sales of Scottish brands in British supermarkets. The surge in demand for local produce is highlighted by the increase in farm shops and farmers’ markets.

"Although Scotland is already home to some of the most delicious and well-known produce anywhere in the world, too few have protected name status. Scotland is a land of food and drink and deserves to have its fine reputation protected."

Paul McLaughlin, Scotland Food & Drink Chief Executive, said: "The Scottish food and drink industry is worth billions to our economy. It is essential that we support local businesses to sustain our economy and give us a strong base from which to grow.

"Our country has an enviable list of internationally renowned food and drink products which are enjoyed all over the world. But to help build Scotland s international reputation as 'A Land of Food and Drink' we also need to raise awareness and celebrate what our industry has to offer in Scotland."

George McIvor, Fellow of The Master Chefs of Great Britain said: "I was delighted to be involved in the biggest-ever St Andrew's Day celebrations. The Food Zone Marquee in St Andrew Square was a wonderful opportunity to showcase some of Scotland’s best food and drink. It is always a delight to cook with top quality ingredients, and there are none finer than the superb fish and seafood we have from Scottish waters and world-renowned Scotch Beef and Scotch Lamb."

Events and support for the industry happening this week include: