THE FARMING community has been urged to apply for a funding opportunity offered by the UK Government.

MP for Copeland, Trudy Harrison, has invested the £27 million Farming Investment Fund, urging the farming community to come forward if they are eligible for a portion of the money.

Grants under the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs scheme can be used to cover the cost of equipment and technology.

Funding under the scheme can also be used to cover the cost of new infrastructure if it improves farm productivity and benefits the environment.

Examples of projects and equipment eligible to be covered by the grant are: solar-powered electric fences, water treatment systems that use ultraviolet light instead of chemicals, and cameras for monitoring livestock.

Mrs Harrison said: "I am encouraging Copeland’s farmers and growers to explore the eligibility criteria for the grants and consider making an application. Funds are available to support the industry to focus on more efficient production methods that will reduce resource costs.

Farming Minister, Victoria Prentis, said: “I’m pleased to offer support to eligible farmers through the new Farming Investment Fund to invest in technology and infrastructure to boost productivity and deliver environmental benefits.’