THE views of farmers in Warrington will be made 'loud and clear' says one of the town's MPs.

Andy Carter met farmers across Warrington South to discuss issues of concern to them.

And the MP has vowed to speak to the floods minister to voice concerns about 'neglected' watercourses which are blighting their lives.

The MP and representatives from the NFU were hosted by the Blackburn family in Lymm to discuss the government’s plans for agriculture and farming post-Brexit, animal welfare, infrastructure and being able to access labour from the local area.

Farmers from all parts of the constituency representing poultry, beef, and arable farming among others were involved.

Mr Carter MP said: “Our farmers provide the food to feed the nation, it’s really helpful for me to hear about the issues that they face and what the government can do to help them. Particularly with the changes that took place with Brexit, and ensuring the free trade agreements we strike across the World are mutually beneficial for local producers.

“It’s really important we continue to back our farmers and champion the benefits of buying British food in our supermarkets and local shops – our farmers provide local jobs, look after the countryside and produce all the ingredients we all need for a healthy and balanced diet.

“One of the issues farmers in Warrington have faced recently is flooding, and I’m keen to see the Environment Agency start to prioritise essential maintenance of flood defence assets and watercourses which have been neglected for some time. I am meeting with the floods minister next week and will ensure the views of our local farmers are heard loud and clear.”

NFU’s Deputy Cheshire County Chairman Richard Yarwood said: “As part of the NFU’s summer of campaigning it was extremely beneficial for our Cheshire team to meet with Mr Carter in person and on a farm within his constituency.

“The NFU’s primary objective is to help shape government policy to enable British farmers to continue supplying the nation with safe, traceable and affordable food produced to world-leading animal welfare, environmental and food safety standards. Mr Carter’s assurances to help us achieve this goal are very welcome indeed.”