FARMERS across the region are taking part in this year’s Open Farm Sunday on June 13.

LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming), which organises Open Farm Sunday, believes the event will be even bigger and better than 2009.

“We’re keen to build on last year’s success by organising another farm open day,” says Open Farm Sunday manager Tom Allen-Stevens.

“This is one day in the year when everyone can visit farms and gain a real insight into how their food is produced and how the countryside around them is cared for.”

LEAF offers farmers lots of free support to help them run a successful event and organises national publicity for the day.

Open Farm Sunday helps people understand the true story and value behind their food, and the dedication and skill of farmers who produce it.

Mr Allen-Stevens said: “There are real business benefits, too, for those farmers who host events: it can help you improve sales, learn new marketing skills, and build staff morale and sense of pride.

“You can gain new contacts or simply improve relationships with your local community.”

North West co-ordinator and Open Farm Sunday host Huw Rowlands who, with his father David, farms rare breed Red Poll cattle at Mickle Trafford, near Chester, added: “Open Farm Sunday is a fantastic day out for all the family, and every farm is different.

“The day provides a unique opportunity for people to enjoy the countryside and let nature indulge their senses.”

Mr Rowlands is one of ten regional coordinators introduced by LEAF for the first time this year.

They are farmers and strong OFS supporters who have organised workshops and are providing support at a regional level as well as helping to increase the success of Open Farm Sunday for everyone.

To find out what is going on in your area and to visit a farm on June 13, go to www.farmsunday.org where the website is constantly being updated as the day draws closer.

Mr Allen-Stevens added: “OFS 2009 was a fantastic success, with 425 farms across the UK opening their gates to around 140,000 visitors and we are sure that 2010 will be even better.”

To find out more about Open Farm Sunday please visit www.farmsunday.org, telephone LEAF on 02476 413911, or email pauline.wood@leafuk.org.