A BID has been launched to give two Scottish delicacies - the rowie and Hamlyns Porridge Oats - the same status as Arbroath Smokies.

The two products have been highlighted for their potential to earn Protected Food Name (PFN) status.

Grampian Food Forum chairman Keith Whyte said he would love to see support for the north-east breakfast dishes to join the Smokie with the same status.

He said: "The buttery is synonymous with the north-east and people travel miles to get the type they like best.

"We're also the country's main growing area for oats because the soil is so good, so there would be a good case for Hamlyns Porridge Oats.

"I think people would really get behind protected status for our butteries and oats."

Scotland's Food and Drink Minister Richard Lochhead said he would support PFN applications for the rowie and oats.