Shropshire Star

Shropshire and Mid Wales farmers back bishop's call for prayers

Dairy farmers in Shropshire and Mid Wales have backed calls from the Anglican Bishop of Shrewsbury to pray for farmers facing falling milk prices.

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The Rt Rev Mark Rylands said he wants congregations across the region to begin praying for the farmers, many of whom are receiving 10p per litre less for milk than it costs to produce. His plea has been backed by two dairy farmers.

Peter Lewis, who farms at Llanfyllin, near Oswestry, said: "This shows that the plight of dairy farmers is now being recognised. It is nice that people are concerned for us. There really is a crisis in the dairy industry and the next six months will be critical."

Mr Lewis's claims have been backed up by Jim Franklin, who closed his family dairy farm – Park Farm on the Aqualate Estate in Newport – last year after 32 years in the business. He said: "The bishop's involvement is very welcome. I am glad to see it has got to that level and it is lovely to hear. The main problem for dairy farmers is the feeling that the products they are producing are being undervalued.

"They are working very hard to produce something that nobody seems to care for. Campaigners are asking British shoppers to care about it and buy British and look for the Red Tractor.

"So fair play to the Bishop of Shrewsbury. I know dairy farmers appreciate any support, they need to know they are valued. At the moment I know from experience it is an increasingly scary time for them."

He added: "We would love to see anyone raising the profile of British dairy farmers."

Mr Rylands had said: "I urge our Shropshire churches to pray for our farmers and support them by buying milk from shops and supermarkets that pay farmers a fair price. Let's stand by our neighbours who are struggling. Speaking to dairy farmers recently, many are concerned about their futures."

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