Defra grants of nearly £500,000 were allocated to East of England projects last month, supporting farmers and agricultural businesses.
The Regional Appraisal Panel under the England Rural Development Programme (ERDP) approved funding totalling £487,185.50.
Defra rural development adviser John Allsopp, said: “The Regional Appraisal Panel assessed proposals for processing and marketing grants, the Rural Enterprise Scheme and the Vocational Training Scheme. Together these aim to develop the skills of farmers and landowners, assist them in diversification projects and to encourage agricultural processing and marketing.”
Allsopp also explained that regular surgeries are to be held at regional offices to give guidance to people considering making an application. He said: “Farmers often find that it’s really worth spending an hour with one of our rural development advisers. This often enables farmers to better present their proposal for ERDP funding. To book an appointment you can contact Mark Brealey via email: mark.p.brealey@defra.gsi.gov.uk.