Farm gates open for visitors as new season of events begins

Farmers in the county will be opening their gates to the public again this spring and summer as the popular programme of Cumbria Farm Days returns for another year. The events provide opportunities for the public to gain a unique insight into the important role farmers play in producing local, quality food and in maintaining our valued landscapes. Over 40 farm events are planned from the end of April through to the autumn. They will allow people to visit farms not normally open to the public and from farmers first hand about the link between farming and land management.

"Farmers no longer just produce food," said Carol Douglas, Farm Events Officer at Friends of the Lake District. "They produce a whole range of products and benefits that are enjoyed by the public and it is important that people recognise the link between the food they eat and the landscape they enjoy".

Many of the events are being run in partnership with the Cumbria Farmer Network - a local farmers' co-operative set up to address the challenges faced by agriculture today. The project is funded by the Cumbria Fells and Dales Leader + Programme, Friends of the Lake District, Cumbria Tourism and Natural England. Individual farmers are also involved helping to raise awareness amongst the public about the work they do.

Events will be held throughout the county focusing on various themes and giving examples of the wide range of work that farmers are involved in. The next event are on April 28th and 29th near Carlisle and at in Martindale. For details of all the events visit www.floraofthefells.com or call 01539 720788.