NFU members have been concerned over the volume of people who have been flocking to the countryside in recent days.

This is causing anxiety to our NFU members, particularly if they have family members in at-risk groups.

They see crowds of people in close proximity and many public rights of way (PROW) go through their farmyards and gardens.

The NFU recognise that there are multiple health and wellness benefits to getting out and enjoying the countryside, their members promote this and arguably during this time it may be imperative that the countryside remains open.

However, the NFU says they may need emergency measures in place to protect the vulnerable and alleviate anxiety.

The NFU leaders have been in discussions with government bodies and have:

Asked for improved communications on responsible use of PROW during this time.

Agreed wording for farmers or land owners in at-risk groups to put on notices informing members of the public that they are either self-isolating or are in the at-risk group.

Asked for potential implementation of emergency measures that will allow for those self-isolating or who meet the vulnerable criteria to temporarily divert or close rights of way to protect everyone.

National NFU deputy president Stuart Roberts has issued a message on YouTube, see link below