Northern Irish sourdough specialist Ursa Minor Bakehouse has won international backing to set up a working expo to spread the message about artisan breads.

The business is the latest bakery to be named among the Économusée network, which celebrates the skills of artisan craft enterprises. It will showcase sourdough skills to visitors at the bakery.

Économusée (a working museum) is a concept that was developed in Québec, Canada and involves partners from a number of countries, including the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. It provides a platform for artisans to present their expertise to visitors and includes workshops on their produce and craft techniques.

Dara O’Hartghalle, owner of Ursa Minor Bakehouse, said it was fantastic to join the Économusée network of artisans.

“It is a tremendous honour to be counted among a group of pioneering craftspeople across the world,” O’Hartghalle said.

“We look forward to creating working relationships with the artisans, as well as welcoming groups into our bakery and spreading the word about sourdough bread.”

There are currently 70 mini museums across eight countries with an additional 20 to be launched by March 2018. Within Northern Ireland there are currently six Économusée workshops.