Following flooding in the Yorkshire Dales, rural support organisations arranged an event at the Leyburn Auction Market to provide information to farmers who have been affected.

North East regional manager Sally Conner and welfare officer John Basnett were in attendance, along with representatives from the FCN, Forage Aid, NFU, EA, local county councils, MPs, National Parks, Two Ridings Charity, RPA, Farmers Network and local churches.

Many of the visitors spoke to John Basnett, who was able to give advice on how to apply for help.

NFU Regional Director Adam Bedford said: “The Yorkshire Dales experienced some of the most intensive rainfall ever, with some areas receiving up to 113mm of rain in just three hours.

“The storm’s unprecedented nature has led to widespread damage to farms, homes, businesses and wider rural infrastructure. On farms, livestock and many walls, hedges and fences have been destroyed which has associated impacts on farmland. Many farmers are also reporting the loss of silage and hay bales which were harvested and stored for winter feed.”

If you’ve been affected by the flooding, or know anyone who has, please contact our confidential freephone helpline – 0800 188 4444. We are able to provide emergency grants in times of crisis.