Smokie tag cures 'fake' problems

The smokie has been the subject of imitation

The Arbroath Smokie has been given official status to protect it from imitations.

The smoked haddock will carry a European Commission protected product symbol and rank alongside other foods such as Scotch Beef and Shetland Lamb.

Bob Spink, former chairman of the Arbroath Fish Processors Association, who launched the smokie campaign, expressed delight at the decision.

He said it would lead to a boost for trade and tourism in the north east.

"I'm absolutely over the moon. This is the end of a very lengthy process but it's great news for the area," Mr Spink declared.

This is a much welcome boost for the industry and Arbroath in particular Allan Wilson Rural Development Minister

"It's a good news story which comes at a time when there hasn't been much cheer for the Scottish fishing industry."

Mr Spink said the decision would help to boost tourism and trade in the area.

Smokie products will now carry a blue and yellow round stamp on every pack sold and on point of sales display adverts.

The Scottish Executive supported Arbroath Fish Processors Association and Angus Council in their application for Protected Geographic Indication (PGI) for the smokie.

Rural Development Minister Allan Wilson said: "This is a much welcome boost for the industry and Arbroath in particular.

"The registration of Arbroath Smokies provides Scotland with its first fish-based product protected under this scheme."

PGI status is granted to products which are produced, processed or prepared within a definite geographical area and have clear associations with that area.

Arbroath Smokie becomes the seventh Scottish product to receive PGI status.

The others are Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, Orkney Beef, Orkney Lamb, Shetland Lamb and Bonchester Cheese.

Industry representatives will now hold official celebrations in the town on 19 March.