A Scottish Government minister has urged transport firms to follow the example of the Caledonian Sleeper in showcasing local Highland food on their services.
Food Secretary Richard Lochhead made the call after tasting dishes from north companies Groam Farm and Summer Isles Foods at the Dingwall kitchens of sleeper supplier RSF.
He hailed the partnership between the brace of local firms and the Serco-run London to Inverness and Fort William service as a “recipe for success”.
The Moray MSP, who has been heavily involved in promoting his homeland’s rich array of specialist dishes and drinks, said: “Scotland is a fantastic natural larder and is attracting a worldwide reputation for being a land of food and drink.
“The overnight Caledonian Sleeper between London Euston and the Scottish Highlands is one of the world’s greatest railway journeys.
“Tourists and travellers must be able to enjoy what we produce on our doorstep and I’m pleased that the Caledonian Sleeper is supporting local businesses and showcasing great Scottish food on this flagship rail service.
“It is an example which I would like all kinds of transport operators to take on board – because showcasing Scottish food is a winning recipe for travellers.”
RSF is the brainchild of two local husband and wife teams, Michelle and Quintin Stevens and Sabine and Ian Richards, and their collaboration now produces more than 300,000 meals annually for the Caledonian Sleeper as part of a £1million contract.
Peter Strachan, managing director of Caledonian Sleeper, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity to welcome the cabinet secretary and to showcase some of the finest produce from the Highlands region.
“We are committed to working with local suppliers where possible and the fact that 92% of food produce for Caledonian Sleeper is sourced within 50 miles of RSF’s operation in Dingwall is of great importance to us.”