Farmers in the North of England, worried about the changes sweeping their industry and the demand for ever “greener” agriculture, are queuing up to at attend a key conference to be held in Newcastle-upon-Tyne later this month.

British farmers are facing what appear to be two conflicting challenges: increasing production as world food shortages grow whilst at the same time introducing more environmentally friendly techniques like reducing the amount of fertiliser to reduce river pollution (see A week in he country - Fish, farms and water pollution).

Squaring this circle will be one of the main themes of the Northern Farming Conference to be held at Newcastle race course on October 15. The key speaker will be Defra minister Lord Henley and 150 delegates have already booked tickets.

Says organising committee chairman Harry Crisp: “The 15th October is going to be a fascinating day. The line up of speakers includes our political leaders, delivery agencies, industry leaders, regulators and farmers, who will all have a strong opinion on the future of our industry.

“This is a real opportunity for anybody in the agricultural industry to hear about their future from the horses’ mouths, so to speak, and they will have the prospect to influence that future.

“With plenty of time available for questions and debate, it is an opportunity that should not be missed. We already have a lot of people already booked to come, but it is a big venue and there is still room for more, so don’t delay.”

Tickets cost £30, buffet included. For more information, visit www.northernfarmingconference.org.uk