THE Penrith-based Farmer Network is warning farmers time is running out to apply for a Government grant scheme.

They say farmers in the county only have until midday on November 4 to apply to the third round of Defra’s Countryside Productivity Small Grant scheme.

The scheme re-opened on October 7 with grants for farm equipment related to technical efficiency, animal health and welfare, resource efficiency and nutrient management.

The grant is 40 percent of standard costs, with a minimum grant of £3,000 and maximum of £12,000.

Farmer Network grant specialist, Veronica Waller, said: "Many farmers have been enquiring about when this grant scheme might open again.

"Although we were expecting it to re-open this autumn, the announcement was a surprise and there is only a four week application period."

Ms Waller added: "It is a relatively easy on-line application process without the need to obtain quotes, but farmers should make sure the equipment purchased meets the specification and must carefully check the evidence they need before claiming the grant.

"Farmers who received grants from the previous two rounds of the scheme will be limited to an overall maximum grant of £12,000."

For more details about Defra’s Countryside Productivity Small Grant Scheme see: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/countryside-productivity-small-grant-cpsg-scheme-round-3

The Farmer Network Ltd is an independent, not for profit organisation providing help and support to nearly 1,200 farmer members throughout Cumbria and the Yorkshire Dales.