A FARMER is encouraging others to get clued up on the Brexit debates before they cast their vote in June.

The National Farmers' Union (NFU) are holding debates across the South so farmers can hear both sides of staying in or leaving the EU.

Chairman of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire NFU, Jeff Powell, of West Hagbourne, predicts a period of uncertainty for agriculture.

He said: "The farming industry is going through a tough time right now with poor commodity prices, falling farm incomes and relatively high costs.

"To top that, there is also political uncertainty over the UK's relationship with the European Union.

"Agriculture has a long relationship with Europe through the Common Agricultural Policy and access to the single market, the world's largest economy.

"I would encourage NFU farmer and grower members to attend the NFU's forthcoming debates on Brexit next month as all should know the facts before casting the vote that could completely change the way our industry works."

Mr Powell grows wheat, barley and beans, producing hay and straw.

His milling wheat is sold to Wessex Mill of Wantage Ltd for speciality bread-making flours.

Mr Powell added: "I do believe we as farmers should concentrate as much as possible on local markets.

"For example, my milling wheat travels only eight miles to Clarks Mill down the road in Wantage.

"I deliver my feed barley and beans one mile down the road to a cattle farm, it turns into very nice beef in the end.

"All my hay and straw is sold within a five-mile radius because I have chosen to concentrate on a local niche market."

The union's position in the EU debates will be discussed at the NFU Council in April.

For more information visit: nfuonline.com