SMALL dairy farms in a part of North Yorkshire have the chance to join a scheme which offers free support and business advice.

Up to 20 family farms within driving distance of Crathorne, near Yarm, can apply to join The Prince's Dairy Initiative.

Now entering its fourth year the initiative is open to dairy farms with fewer than 200 cows, who supply their milk on a standard contract, and who are not already active in discussion groups and workshops.

The scheme has proved highly successful and is designed to help them secure their future through practical workshops, business advice and networking.

The initiative is inspired by The Prince of Wales and his long held concern about the future sustainability of UKdairy farming.

It is delivered in partnership with AHDB Dairy and The Prince’s Countryside Fund with the support of major UK dairy processors, cooperatives, supply and feed companies.

Mike Stevens, of Müller Wiseman Dairies and Initiative chairman, said: "This is an important time for us to support traditional family dairy farmers. With a wider range of farm gate prices than I have ever seen in my career, The Prince’s Dairy Initiative is helping those in most need to improve their overall efficiency as the industry becomes even more challenging.

"Our experience to-date proves that bringing local, like-minded farmers together delivers real benefit. The problem is that too often the farmers who could benefit the most from this initiative are too remote or too busy to seek support. We’re trying to spread the word and reach these farmers."

Since 2012, more than 200 dairy farms have taken part in the programme of business-led workshops designed to help secure the future of their businesses. All are benchmarked and attend workshops delivered locally by experts in the dairy sector and cover topics such as herd health, soil, nutrition and financial management.

Most farmers who have taken part have changed the way they do things on their own farms, helping the long term viability of their businesses.

As well as reducing costs and improving technical farm performance, participating farmers benefit from joining a network of local, like-minded people with whom they can share knowledge and best practice.

Richard Weatherald, a member of the Yorkshire Dales Group, said: "You never stop learning. It is good to get off your own farm and meet different farmers. Both workshops have delivered thus far."

Eligible farmers are invited to an introductory meeting in Crathorne Reading Room, Crathorne, on September 14th at 7.30pm until 9pm. The workshops take place between November and Spring next year.

Further details from Tony Hoile, AHDB dairy extension officer, on 07500 578583; email

Anthony.Hoile@ahdb.org.uk.