Tyne Esk LEADER Projects respond to the COVID-19 crisis

A number of Tyne Esk LEADER projects have successfully adapted to the 'new normal' brought about by COVID-19.

Fishing around the Forth, a project to promote local fishing in the Forth region has seen a monumental resurgence since restrictions were eased on 21st May.  A virtually unused website has become hugely popular with sales of permits skyrocketing, growing daily with advice to “stay local”. The applicant sees huge potential in this - the Central Belt population is the largest in Scotland so their aim of making the Forth as attractive a fishing destination as the Dee or the Tweed is far closer in sight. The project is a co-operation project spanning Forth Valley & Lomond, Kelvin Valley & Falkirk and West Lothian LEADER areas as well as Tyne Esk.

Midlothian-based Whisky Frames have also optimised their potential, diversifying with barrel gift maker Darach and producing whisky-infused wood chips for barbeques. Critically, the community-minded business have set up Rosewell Cares which delivers food parcels to those in need in the area, including those shielding or isolating.  Not to be outdone, sister company Armadilla have made the final of a global competition to produce a new style ventilator!  The one-man team came 7^th out of 250 world class medical teams to make this stage. The ventilators are produced be low cost/easy to upscale and will be given to developing countries.

In East Lothian, Redhouse Plant Nursery is finally able to re-open its doors, though the delivery service they ran during restrictions was very successful.

Lastly, legacy project Crowdfund ‘Tyne Esk’ is providing critical support through the Covid crisis. Changes Community Health who provide mental health support throughout East Lothian, acknowledge the overwhelming need due to Covid and are adapting their approach to deliver. A Penicuik-based author has also raised funds for The Friendship Reflection Book which focusses on the bonds being strengthened through Covid. 

Find out more about Tyne Esk LEADER.