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Weaver training to help tweed industry

Posted on Wednesday, 03 March 2010 05:12AM by BBC News, Highlands & Islands
Twelve people are to be trained as weavers of Harris Tweed amid fears about the industry's ageing workforce.

Members of the Harris Tweed Liaison Group, which includes Western Isles councillors, have previously raised the concerns.

The 12 trainees will later this month begin a course in Stornoway developed by Cardonald College in Glasgow.

An SVQ Level 1 in manufacturing textile products qualification has been adapted for Harris Tweed weavers.

Angus Campbell, chairman of the Harris Tweed Industry Forum, said he was delighted the trainee weaver project had reached the course stage.

He said: "There has been no formal mechanism for training new weavers over the past decade or so.

"This project has been essential in putting in place a structure to ensure new entrants to the industry meet an appropriate standard, which recognises the skills and craftsmanship required of Harris Tweed weavers."