A NEW action group has been formed to assess the 'nature and scale' of damaged to farms and associated businesses following the devastating floods.

The Cumbria Farm Flood Action Group was created with the help of a £7,469 grant from the Prince’s Countryside Fund.

The initiative combines the work of various groups, which include The Farmer Network, Cumbria Commoners, NFU, Foundation for Common Land, Cumbria Agricultural Chaplaincy and the Westmorland Agricultural Society.

Learning lessons from Somerset and previous Cumbria floods the Cumbria Farm Flood Action Group will collect data from all the farm businesses affected to assess the scale and nature of the flooding on farms and also make available help to farmers.

The Farmer Network managing director Adam Day said: “Cumbria has suffered floods before but this year the scale of devastation on farm is beyond that seen before both due to the level of damage and its spread across the whole county.

"We are here to help the individuals and businesses affected and want to reach out to everyone as quickly as possible. Data collection may be perceived as a cold and impersonal activity in situations of tragedy but it is essential to inform the work to rebuild our farming businesses and our rural communities.”

The Prince’s Countryside Fund director Claire Saunders said: “This is one practical way that we can help businesses get back on their feet following the terrible flooding. It is good news that George Eustice MP confirmed that 600 flood affected farmers will see their BPS payment prioritised where they have not already been paid but the recovery will be lengthy for many and getting the right practical, emotional and financial advice must be a priority.”

Farmers in Cumbria are being encouraged to call The Farmer Network on 01768-868615 who are taking responsibility for co-ordinating the group but all farmers will be contacted by the team of staff and volunteers in the coming weeks.

The same survey is also available online, hosted by the NFU which can be accessed here http://www.nfuonline.com/news/latest-news/2015-floods-damage-survey/