A NEWLY-formed organic producers' group is appealing for members from across the North of England.

On Wednesday Northumbria Organic Producers is holding a launch day at Houghall college, near Durham City, to promote its activities and aims.

The event, from 10.30 to 3pm, is open to anyone with an interest in organic farming. Speakers include Mr Phil Stocker of the Soil Association and Mary Weston of the Organic Meat Livestock Co-operative.

A walk will be led by Mr Edward Richardson, farm manager at Houghall, to give visitors the chance to see organic farming methods in action and discuss the practicalities of converting.

"There is definitely a demand for organic produce but it is crucial we get together to establish what sort of infrastructure is in place and what we need to do to ensure the market can grow," said Mr Richardson. "That is one of the long term aims of the group and I hope we get a good turnout at the launch."

Full membership is available to the converted and those in conversion. Associate membership is open to anyone considering conversion or with an interest in organic farming.

The group covers Durham, Tyne and Wear, Northumberland, Cleveland, Darlington and North Yorkshire. It already has 30 members but hopes to increase that number dramatically on the launch day, which is the first of a series of events to be held on issues requested by the membership