The Scotland Rural Development Programme (SRDP) is off to a flying start in Argyll with £1.4m already awarded to community groups.

The awards by the LEADER Local Action Group comes from the £2.7m allocated by Ministers to the area to support and transform rural communities.

More money is set to follow over the coming weeks and months with extra resources specifically earmarked for the Highlands and Islands.

Environment Minister Michael Russell said: "I am delighted to note how clearly the Argyll Local Action Group, with the involvement of Argyll and Bute Council, has recognised the importance of agriculture, fishing and forestry to rural Scotland's prosperity.

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"Seeing these LEADER projects get underway is great news. I am convinced that, working hand in glove with the local communities they help sustain, land managers can make an enormous contribution to the growth of Scotland's rural economy.

"The Argyll and Bute Agricultural Forum, for example, has developed an action plan to help farmers adapt to recent changes.

"Another successful group, Argyll Food Producers, has had great success in promoting and selling 'Argyll Foods' at music festivals across the UK including T in the Park and the upcoming Hydro Connect.

"Through LEADER, the SRDP is making a vital contribution to ensuring that rural communities throughout Scotland can secure maximum benefit from a healthy and competitive agricultural sector."

(GK/NS)