PRODUCTS bearing the Yorkshire Lamb brand went on sale this month. And the backers of the scheme are inviting more lamb producers to join.

At present, the Yorkshire Lamb Producers Club has 200 members. Speaking for the club, Jeremy Eaton said: "As consumer demand grows, we need to sign up more farmers with continental cross and Suffolk cross lambs in addition to those with hill breeds, as we start to open up export and home market opportunities for 'Yorkshire Lamb'."

He added: "As a co-operative, the club has substantial collective buying clout that will enable us to negotiate special prices on feeds and machinery for members." Membership of the Yorkshire Lamb Producers' Club is free and there are no contractual obligations on members.

Mr Eaton said that lambs currently being sold through the club are attracting significant price returns.

For information, contact Mr Eaton on (01756) 792375. All farms in the club need to be assured through FABBL (Farm Assured British Beef and Lamb).

The Yorkshire Lamb initiative is supported by the Northern Dales Meat Initiative, Craven District Council, Craven Cattle Marts Ltd and the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority.