FARMERS have been invited to meet an Environment Agency expert to voice their concerns to him in Thirsk.

Anne McIntosh, the Vale of York MP, is hosting a meeting at Thirsk Auction Mart next week.

The shadow environment minister said: "I have arranged for Craig McGarvey, Ridings area manager of the Environment Agency to come and address the farmers.

"It will be a very good opportunity for local farmers to hear the Environment Agency's views on issues such as cross compliance for single farm payments, the effects of floods and animal movements.

"I'm delighted that Peter Welsh, Yorkshire and Humber area manager of Natural England, will also be attending and can brief farmers on the, often complicated, entry level stewardship schemes."

The meeting is at 11.30am on Thursday, April 10, with all local farmers invited; for further information, contact 01845-523835.