Dairy farmers have until midnight on May 31 to apply for a share of the Small Dairy Grant scheme.

With a total of £8.5 million available, those looking for extra support are now being advised to get their applications in before it's too late.

The scheme is available to active dairy farmers who produced less than one million litres of milk between April 1, 2015, and March 31, 2016.

The rural team at Bruton Knowles are now advising those looking for additional funding to spend sufficient time on their application and to make sure all details are correct.

Ben Compton said: “Spending some time on this application could prove useful for those needing funding for investment in, for example, new equipment.

“At a time when a lot of dairy farmers, especially the smaller producers, are finding it hard to make ends meet, grants like this throw them a real lifeline.

“If a farmer doesn’t apply, they won’t receive a payment. It’s that simple. And as we approach the exit door from the EU, maintaining these forms of payments will be the difference between survival or going bust for some.

“There is a lot to consider for the already time stretched farming community and our advice is to get in touch so we can guide them through all that is required making sure they comply with the minimum of fuss and disruption to their working day.”

“We’re now on hand to help all farmers sort through what is needed so that they get what for many are vital payments.”

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For more information please visit gov.uk/guidance/small-dairy-farmers-scheme.