FAMILY-owned farming business Stewarts of Tayside has appointed a new chairman as part of a succession plan.

Jim Stewart, who co-founded the business 40 years ago with wife Mary, is being replaced by younger brother Will.

The fresh produce supplier is believed to be the largest grower and packer of swede in the UK as well as the biggest independent grower and packer of strawberries in Scotland.

Jim Stewart, 66, will retain a small equity holding and continue as a director. The deal was supported by Clydesdale Bank.

The 54-year-old Will Stewart and wife Sheen have worked at the business, based in Glecarse, Perth, for 20 years while their son Liam joined in 2007.