DOZENS of farmers logged on for a virtual farming roadshow hosted by an MP.

Penrith and the Border MP Dr Neil Hudson organised the event to give farmers, landowners, and other rural stakeholders an update on the delivery of current schemes and a chance to hear details on the Future Farming and Countryside Programme (FFCP).

The Cumbrian MP was joined by around 70 farmers and rural stakeholders.

Joining Dr Hudson throughout the Road Show included Janet Hughes, Programme Director, Future Farming and Countryside Programme, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and Alison Johnson, Engagement and Operational Readiness Director, Rural Payments Agency (RPA).

Dr Hudson said: “I set up this roadshow as I was really keen to link farmers and rural stakeholders in Penrith and The Border with senior officials at DEFRA. There is much anxiety in our rural communities about the changes in farming payments moving forwards and I wanted to give folk the chance to raise their concerns directly with DEFRA.

“We covered a huge amount of ground and the feedback from participants was really positive. It was very encouraging to hear folk wanting to work together with DEFRA to make the new schemes work well for farming and the environment."