LOCAL MP Liz Saville Roberts has been reminded of the important contribution lowland farms make on the rural economy during a visit to a family farm.

The visit was hosted by chairman of the FUW’s milk and dairy produce committee, Rhydian Owen, on Friday, January 20 at Trewen, Botwnnog near Pwllheli, a business run by Mr Owen and his parents Dafydd and Enid Owen.

Speaking about the local economy, Mr Owen explained that businesses like theirs annually contribute millions of pounds to the rural economy.

Over the last three years Trewen farm itself has contributed over £150,000, while similar figures had been spent locally by others present.

“If these lowland farms are forgotten during Brexit talks the economic impact would be catastrophic, resulting in further de-population of rural communities,” said Mr Owen.

Local business representatives also showed their support for the industry, emphasising the numbers not directly involved in farming but who nevertheless depend on the industry.

“Many rural businesses rely on the agricultural industry for income, including agricultural suppliers, contractors, mechanics and retailers.

“Under the current financial climate the future of such businesses would be jeopardised if support was not continued in both the uplands and lowlands of Wales,” said Mr Owen.

Liz Saville Roberts voiced her support, stating: “It’s imperative that the Welsh Government are given the responsibility of delivering appropriate support to the industry in order to address local needs that are very different to those across the border."

Read the full story in this Thursday’s north editions of the Cambrian News