Skills awards for north-east butchers

Professional development has paid off for several north-east butchers who have been recognised by Craft Skills Scotland awards.

In Strichen, three of the staff completing their Modern Apprentice SCQF 6 award in Meat and Poultry Skills at Bert Fowlie, Darren Baxter, Callum Morrice and Alistair Forsyth were presented with their awards having worked through their qualification individually, but at the same time, seeking out improvements and efficiencies to the business.

For Darren there was also an early Christmas present from Craft Skills Scotland assessor John Farquhar, in the shape of his Craft Butcher Diploma of Scotland.

He has worked for nine years honing his skills to achieve the pinnacle of Scottish Butchery qualifications.

During this time he has developed into a vital part of the team at Bert Fowlie which has won Scottish Butcher Shop of the Year three times.

He has also competed at the inaugural Butcher Wars Pairs competition in Perth and is now helping to train the next generation of butchers.

There was also an early present for Scott Neil of Ewan Morrice Quality Butcher in Mintlaw who was presented with his Craft Butcher Diploma of Scotland.

Scott has worked hard over the last seven years, developing and working on his skills, taking part in, as a pairs finalist, in the inaugural Butcher Wars competition with his boss Ewan Morrice and he is now manager of the Mintlaw branch.

In Alford, Steven Donald of Graeme Barber butchers was awarded his SCQF 5 Modern Apprentice qualification in Meat and Poultry Skills.

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