AROUND 70 farmers and rural stakeholders attended the virtual Farming Roadshow hosted by Dr Neil Hudson, MP for Penrith and The Border.

The unique event gave farmers, landowners, and other rural stakeholders in Penrith and The Border an update on the delivery of current schemes and a chance to hear details on the Future Farming and Countryside Programme (FFCP). Attendees were also given the opportunity to ask questions and raise concerns directly with Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affarirs and the Rural Payments Agency.

Dr Hudson said: “It was a great opportunity for farmers and rural stakeholders to come together to share their hopes and fears for the coming months and years. The atmosphere was collegiate and constructive with some fair but tough questioning of the panel members.

“At this time of change in rural funding, it is vital that our farming community has the opportunity to raise any of their concerns with both DEFRA and the RPA to ensure they can compete globally and these standards can continue to be upheld.”

Janet Hughes, Programme Director, Future Farming and Countryside Programme, DEFRA said: “I hope we are able to do justice to the questions and look forward to a repeat fixture in future.”