MP: 'Cumbrian farmers should put themselves forward for £15 million government fund'

South Lakes MP Tim Farron has called on Cumbrian farmers to put themselves forward for a slice of a £15 million pot which is on offer to anyone who can come up with ways to transform food manufacturing and reduce waste.

The money is part of a Government drive to support pioneering research and development that will help to unlock the huge potential of theUK's farming, food and drink sector and drive the economic recovery.

Previous recipients of this type of grant include a team based atHeriot-WattUniversity, who used ultrasound to improve the quality and nutritional value of bread and cakes while making production more energy efficient.

Up to £15 million is available in grants for larger businesses to invest in projects that will increase the efficiency, sustainability and competitiveness of food processing and manufacturing. A further £500,000 will also be available to small and medium sized businesses, through grants of up to £25,000.

Tim said: "I am incredibly proud of farmers in Cumbria. They really are some of the best in the country. Throughout the Eden Valley, Dales and the South Lakes many people involved in farming are innovating and showing the way forward for the future of the sector. I hope that farmers from throughout Cumbria will put themselves forward and get a slice of the fund. Cumbria really is a leader in food production and this fund can help us go from strength to strength."