"GREEN" businesses are being invited to take part in a business development scheme for wood-based crafts.

It seeks to encourage a resurgence of skills such as coppicing and furniture-making using local materials.

The initiative is available to new and existing small/medium-sized businesses operating within the Red Rose Forest area.

They are being offered a comprehensive information and advice service, training opportunities, access to business support agencies and the possibility in some cases of grants for up to £5,000.

The scheme is part of a wider £2.29 million package to enhance the image of the area and develop the local woodland economy.

Those who stand to benefit include charcoal burners, coppicers, landscape gardeners, tree surgeons, wood turners, timber merchants and furniture-makers.

The development conforms with one of the objectives of the Countryside Commission and the Forestry Authority - to encourage "green" enterprises in the country's 12 community forests.

The Red Rose Forest area covers almost 300 square miles of land in Bolton, Bury, Wigan, Trafford, Manchester and Salford.

It is a joint initiative by the six councils, the Countryside Commission and the Forestry Authority to increase the amount of local woodland cover.

This "Community Forest", which is partly funded by Euro-money, is designed to create a more attractive and productive environment and to stimulate leisure and business enterprises in and around large towns and cities.

Local Euro MP Gary Titley was on hand in Cricket Ground Wood, near Worsley, for the launch of the new initiative.

He said: "The scheme presents a superb opportunity for people wishing to develop greenwood businesses while at the same time helping to ensure the efficient management and sustainability of our woodlands."

He added: "The injection of Euro-money has been crucial and I am sure that there will be many firms in Bolton who will wish to take advantage of this new opportunity."

The scheme is being managed by Anne Craig of Salford University Business Services on behalf of Salford City Council and the Red Rose Forest Partnership.

She can be contacted on 0161-957-0011.

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