Horticulture Research International has unveiled a new joint-venture initiative to offer growers in south Lincolnshire a chance to diversify.

The England Rural Development Programme is assisting with the creation of South Lincolnshire Seed Producers; a jv partnership between HRI and growers in the area. It also has support from Defra and the European Agricultural Guidance & Guarantee Fund.

The initiative will enable growers with spare glasshouse and tunnel capacity to move into production of different lines.

'The group will initially concentrate on flower and vegetable seed production, cleaning and grading for both conventional and organic crops,' said Robin Wood who manages the initiative for HRI alongside Lorraine Berry. The aim in the longer term is to broaden the crop range and to develop seed enhancement facilities with specialist crops the main target.

A consultant is also on board with the joint venture to advise on legal matters and international regulations. The group is now actively seeking growers to produce seed working under contract. Interested parties should contact Wood at HRI on tel: 01205 723 477.

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