WEST Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin donned her stout shoes and trousers to go down on the farm to discuss the Conservatives election manifesto with members of Tenbury’s NFU branch.

Michael and Jane Hogan hosted the visit at Bickley Farm, near Tenbury, which included a tour of the farm to see cattle and new-born lambs.

The MP described her party's plans to ease cash flow pressures for farmers by allowing them to average out income over five years, making it easier to manage their outgoings.

Mrs Baldwin said: "Two years ago I met with the branch together with local MEP Anthea Macintyre to understand some of the challenges faced by the farming community. This repeat visit was a chance to follow up on some of those discussions and for the NFU branch to lobby me on measures that are in their manifesto ahead of the forthcoming general election.

"I have worked hard in Parliament over the last five years making sure that the farmers’ voice is properly heard in Westminster. I am grateful to Michael and Jane Hogan for playing host to this event and to all the local farmers who gave up a spring afternoon to come and talk with me.”

The farmers quizzed Harriett on a range of issues including the control of bovine tuberculosis, the use of neonicontinoid fertilisers and milk prices.