Help at hand from local NFU offices

FARMERS facing difficulties as a result of the recent spell of severe weather have been advised to contact either their NFU Scotland regional offices or their local machinery ring, writes Andrew Arbuckle.

Both these organisations are working to solve the three most significant problems brought about by the cold snap: collapsed farm buildings, a shortage of fuel on farms and access to livestock.

Speaking yesterday NFU Scotland's chief executive, James Withers, reckoned that the overall picture was pretty positive with farmers managing extremely difficult conditions as well as helping each other.

"There has been some respite with a thaw in most areas and this has helped alleviate some pressures. However, such is the depth of snow and ice in some areas that problems do persist."

Withers reckoned that more than 100 farms had suffered from buildings collapsing under the weight of snow and part of the helpline effort will see the union and the rings try to identify other available accommodation for the housed cattle. .

He reiterated the message, relating to the "precarious" nature of many farming buildings with significant snow accumulation on the roof. "We don't want anyone putting themselves in danger trying to clear snow."

Another worry is that fuel deliveries are well behind schedule.

"We're happy to speak to government and fuel distributors if there is a particular local problem that a central collection point could help address.

"Extending the derogation on drivers' hours for fuel deliveries may well help to get fuel to needy areas as quickly as possible."