To say the Harris Tweed Industry has taken it’s fair few knocks in recent years is probably an understatement. In an attempt to bring new blood into the aging workforce twelve people are to be trained as weavers of Harris Tweed. This course was created after concerns were made by the Members of the Harris Tweed Liaison Group, which includes Western Isles councillors. The course has been developed by Cardonald College in Glasgow
The 12 new trainees will start later this month. The course will be based on the remote Scottish island of Stornoway.
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.”