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recent releases from Leicester Shire Development Agency, Business Link for Leicestershire and Business Link Lincolnshire & Rutland | 
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9 July 2002
NEWS RELEASE
FUNDING IS MUCH NEEDED BOOST FOR FARMERS
Farmers across the East Midlands are set to benefit from extra government funding for the Farm Business Advice Service.
DEFRA have allocated an additional £266,686 to the scheme, which will allow a further 228 farms to access support and advice this year.
The service offers farmers three days of free consultancy during which an experienced farm business adviser will perform a general health check and discuss options for growth and diversification. Follow up visits can provide guidance and advice on putting any plans into action.
More than 910 farmers have received assistance since its launch in October 2000 and now Business Link Lincolnshire & Rutland, which runs the service on behalf of Business Links in the region, is urging more to come forward.
"There are almost 16,000 farms in the East Midlands," said agricultural sector manager Samantha Cavill, "and we know that many of these can benefit from our help. The health check is not just about diversification, it is about assessing where you are now and planning for the future."
To qualify, applicants have to have a County Parish Holding number and spend at least 75 per cent of their working time on a core farming business. More than 80 farms have already successfully applied for assistance and the remaining places are going fast.
There are also limited spaces left on an enhanced five-day service, for farms affected by compulsory slaughter regulations during the foot and mouth epidemic.
For further information contact a member of the Farm Business Advice Service on 0845 4500630.
Ends
For further media information
CONTACT Kate Downs on 0116 254 4472
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