The NFU in the North East is building on its initial support for flood-affected farmers in the Yorkshire Dales as work begins to help the area recover from the devastation caused by Tuesday’s (30 July) flash flooding.

With reports of roads, walls, winter fodder and some livestock being swept away by the flood water, the NFU is putting its emergency contingency plans into effect and is urging affected farmers to register with them for recovery advice and assistance.

“It’s heart-breaking to see the damage caused by so much rain in such a short amount of time, but we know farmers are now 100% focused on getting back on their feet,” said Adam Bedford, NFU north east regional director.

“Dales farmers are incredibly resilient, but they will need help to deal with the immediate and longer term complex impacts of this extreme weather event.

“We have an experienced team locally and nationally now working to make sure all possible measures are in place – whether that’s highlighting to the RPA those businesses known to be affected in a bid to ensure they receive prompt payments or working locally to make it as easy as possible for farmers to dispose of debris dumped on their land by the flood.”

To help with this work, all affected farmers are being urged to call the NFU’s national CallFirst number – 0370 845 8458 – and register. The dedicated CallFirst team will get all the information required in one call and registering will mean farmers can be kept up to date with all the latest developments.

“We will also be working closely with key farming charities such as RABI and FCN to make sure that practical and financial help is available as well as support for family members during what is an incredibly stressful and emotional time,” added Mr Bedford.

A detailed briefing providing information and advice for affected farmers is also available on NFUOnline.com.