PENRITH and the Border MP Rory Stewart attended an NFU meeting of farmers from Appleby and Upper Eden at Coupland Beck Farm to discuss the current bovine TB scare..

The group also discussed other pressing issues including Brexit, Commons Land law, and the importance of herd health.

Acknowledging the potentially catastrophic effects of the spread of bTB, there was a strong consensus that more must be done to contain the disease, in order to protect the Cumbrian agricultural economy.

Similarly, it was agreed there must be a move towards more efficient testing of cattle, along with stronger sanctions on the movement of cattle, to prevent bTB becoming endemic in the area.

Farmers - representing a mix of agriculture, and from farms in and around Appleby, Kirkby Stephen and up the East Fellside - voiced numerous other concerns centred on the ongoing Brexit negotiations, as the agriculture sector is likely to be impacted in a number of ways; particularly by the seasonal migration of workers and the effect of any new trade relationships.

Mr Stewart reassured the group that he is committed to getting the best possible Brexit deal for farmers, especially given that agriculture makes up such a large part of the Cumbrian economy.

After the meeting Mr Stewart said: “Agriculture is fundamental to both our local community and our economy, and is part of our iconic Cumbrian heritage.

"We must look to ensure its success at all costs, and dealing with the very real threat of bovine TB is integral to achieving this. I am confident that through continued dialogue between Defra, APHA, the NFU and local farmers, and strong, timely action, we can effectively mitigate the effects of this disease."