Most farmers are facing a future without hope of a better livelihood unless drastic action is taken on many fronts, says a North Yorkshire bishop.

The Bishop of Knaresborough: prayers are with farmers

The Bishop of Knaresborough, the Rt Rev Frank Weston, is backing the church's General Synod campaign to ease the farming crisis being presented to the Government.

Bishop Weston says they will ask the Government to show commitment to farming by developing a clear, long-term strategy and ensure land and farmers can make a major contribution to feeding the nation.

They will also be pressing for help to farmers in "great difficulties" to retire with dignity.

And they are seeking a reduction in the burden of paperwork, as well as giving financial help to organisations providing support for farming families.

Bishop Weston's plea, made in the April Church of England Ripon and Leeds Diocesan newsletter Together, comes as the diocese has appointed the Rev Leslie Morley at its first rural officer. He is supporting rural parishes and helping others to understand and help the present farming crisis.

Bishop Weston says the countryside and farmers must now be a major area of Christian concern and points out that farming statistics are alarming.

Farming incomes have dropped by eight per cent in two years

Average income of hill farmers last year was £2,000.

255 farms were technically insolvent

Last year 18,000 jobs were lost

Nearly all commodity prices dropped sharply.

He adds: "In our prayers this Eastertide may we be sure to include our farmers, especially those for whom the hope of new life in their industry has been almost extinguished."

The suffragan bishop says with the agricultural cycle under way most farmers are facing the future without any hope of a better livelihood this year - or in succeeding years unless drastic action is taken on many fronts.

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