Organic fruit grown in Bosnia is thriving, thanks to a British sponsored project that aims to rebuild the economy.

Project farmer Dane Vasic, 33, said: "We pick wild blueberries, strawberries and raspberries. There is so much here, the soil is very good." Cucumbers, carrots and beetroot are also grown.

The project is run by local organisers the Economic Co-operation Network (ECON) which promotes the cultivation organic produce. Director of ECON Aida Ljuta said: "Bosnia has a variety of organic produce to export, thanks to the climate, and that 50 per cent of the country is woodland. Cheap labour makes it attractive. Organic produce here and abroad is becoming more popular. Bosnia is in a position to exploit that growing demand. You can see there is real potential."

The UK government initially invested £60,000 while Oxfam also provided support. The Swedish organic certification agency (KRAV) has certified that the produce is truly organic.

Former Liberal Democrat leader and chief international envoy to Bosnia Lord Ashdown is supporting organic farming businesses in the country.

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