In praise of Harris Tweed

THE turnaround in the fortunes of the Harris Tweed industry has been a remarkable story.

Just a decade ago, the iconic handwoven cloth – which has a history stretching back to the mid-19th century – was on the brink of disappearing forever with rapidly declining production and an ageing workforce.

Now, thanks to efforts to salvage the industry and endorsement by a range of celebrity names and high-profile designers, the fabric is once again in high demand as a fashion favourite. As the Sunday Herald reveals today, what was once seen as a tough, uncertain job carried out by older generations in a draughty loom shed has become an industry seen to be offering career prospects in everything from weaving and designing to marketing.

Teaching pupils about Harris Tweed is an ideal way to spark that interest early on and alert young people to the opportunities in the industry. It is important in light of long-running concerns about a “youth drain” crisis on Scottish islands. The efforts by the Harris Tweed industry to encourage young people to get involved in it are welcome.