This project is designed to identify, promote and maximise opportunities for the development of the wool industry in Powys. The project will support the whole supply chain and will work with and for producers, processors and users of local wool.

At the All Sheep conference held in 2001 a number of key areas for research and development were realised. The following areas will be carried out under this project: the feasibility of a wool scouring plant in Powys, the need to look at alternative breeds of sheep that produce finer quality wool, develop marketing opportunities for locally produced wool and raise the awareness and encourage people to use Welsh wool.

I am happy to say that all three of the key areas have been started.

The scouring feasibility study was successfully tendered by Heather Mitchell who has completed her study and this will be available on the website.

We are currently working with ADAS Pwllpeirian to assess the viability of the Bowmont flock in Mid Wales. The Bowmonts are a cross between Shetland and Merino and can produce wool as fine as 16 microns. The project has just completed its first year with some very interesting findings.

A number of events have been organised to raise the profile of locally produced wool, namely the Wool & Willow Festival. This is an event in its second year that incorporates both wool and willow products. The event offers workshops for both children and adults in felting, knitting and basket making.

For more information please see the events page.