After running a very successful series of meetings last year, the NFU is on hand again this year to help give farmers the information they'll need to fill in their Single Farm Payment forms.

The Single Farm Payment is a European support payment given to farmers to assist them in preserving and enhancing the countryside. The amount a farmer receives depends upon the amount of land they farm.

The NFU in the North West has organised a number of seminars across the region to bring its members up to speed with the changes to this year's forms. Although this year's form (known within the industry as a SP5) is similar to last year's, there are a number of differences which farmers need to be aware of.

NFU North West's senior policy adviser, Adam Briggs, said: "The meetings will cover the layout of the new forms and outline changes to a number of issues, such as the 10 month rule and cross compliance, which have been introduced since last year."

The meetings will take place on the following dates and at the following venues:

CUMBRIA
Monday 10 April at 12.30pm - Hired Lad, Penrith Monday 10 April at 7.30pm - Shepherds Inn, Carlisle

LANCASHIRE
Wednesday 5 April at 12.30pm - The Higher Trapp, Simonstone Wednesday 5 April at 7.30pm - Garstang Golf and Country Club, Garstang

CHESHIRE
Monday 3 April at 7.30pm - Byley Village Hall Wednesday 12 April at 7.30pm - The Fourways, Delamere

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