More than 40 farmers and farm workers learned valuable health and safety lessons at an NFU event near Ponteland.

Being held at Northumberland College’s Kirkley Hall Campus, they were invited to take part in a series of practical sessions to stay safe and take lessons back to their farm businesses.

The event was organised by the NFU and Northumberland Farmer Network. Those who attended watched live sheep and livestock demonstrations by manufacturer Te Pari and received advice on livestock handling systems and best practice from industry experts.

Farmers also heard an update from NFU chief livestock adviser John Royle and had the opportunity to speak with local vets and rural organisations about a range of livestock and safety issues, including bluetongue virus.

Photo taken during the event for farmers and farm workers at the Kirkley Hall Campus.

placeholder image — Photo taken during the event for farmers and farm workers at the Kirkley Hall Campus.

A free health check was also available throughout the event, reinforcing the importance of looking after both physical and mental well-being alongside undertaking safe practices on farm.

The event was supported by local vets and farming organisations, who were on hand to provide advice and answer questions from attendees.

NFU Northumberland county adviser Charlotte Dring said: “There is a growing acknowledgement across the agriculture sector that we must improve safety on farms.

“Events like this play a vital role in sharing knowledge, encouraging good practice and helping farmers look after both their physical and mental well-being.

“It was fantastic to see so many members attend and engage with the demonstrations and discussions.

“By working together as an industry, we can help create a stronger culture of safety and ensure everyone gets home safely at the end of the day.”