YOUNG and old are invited to a special event looking at how introducing younger people to the farm can benefit them and the farmer.

The Farmer Network and Newton Rigg College, Penrith, hold the event on Wednesday (28th) to explain about employing or forming business partnerships with younger staff or family members.

Held in two parts, the first will run from noon to 3pm at the college's Sewborwen dairy unit, focusing on dairying and including a tour of the unit. The second half will concentrate on beef, sheep and uplands and will be in the college conference centre from 5.30pm to 8pm.

At both events there will be the chance to speak to specialists – accountants, solicitors and the Rural Payments Agency – and also farmers with experience of working with young people in different set-ups.

Kate Gascoyne, of the Farmer Network, said: “We understand the need to keep young people active in farming in Cumbria but realise that for some farmers the prospect of employing or going into partnership with them can be quite daunting.

"This event will look at the benefits of working with young farmers and how to formalise contracts and partnership agreements. It will also provide the opportunity to hear from farmers who have already gone through the process and see how they found it.”

For more information or to book a place, call 01768 868615; e mail bookings@thefarmernetwork.co.uk or text 07714 187034