IT was a real pleasure to visit Gooseford Dairy, near Whiddon Down, recently, where I joined the National Farmers' Union, Julian Courtier and a number of local farmers for a frank and productive conversation about the future of agriculture in Central Devon.

Farming is the backbone of our rural economy and our way of life here in Devon.

Across the United Kingdom, agriculture contributes around £13 billion to the economy each year and supports roughly four million jobs across the wider food and drink supply chain, which remains the country's largest manufacturing sector.

Here in the South West, farming carries particular weight, with the region home to a significant share of England's dairy herd. Devon alone is one of the most agriculturally active counties in the country.

Sitting down with those who work the land day in, day out is always the best way to understand what is really happening on the ground. Several issues came up during our discussion.

Rural crime was high on the agenda. It is a problem that too often goes unnoticed, yet it costs the countryside dearly.

Nationally, rural crime is estimated to cost around £50 million a year, with theft of machinery, livestock and GPS equipment causing enormous disruption to businesses that already operate on tight margins. For an isolated farm, the impact of theft or trespass goes well beyond the financial cost.

Rising costs were another pressing concern. Farmers have faced steep increases in the price of fuel, fertiliser and animal feed in recent years, and these pressures continue to squeeze incomes.

Many of the farmers I met described the difficulty of planning ahead when input costs remain so unpredictable.

We also discussed environmental stewardship schemes and how they can be made to work more effectively for farmers who want to protect and enhance the landscape while running a viable business.

There was a clear appetite to see these schemes deliver genuine value, both for nature and for those who care for the land.

Finally, we talked about food security, a subject that has rightly climbed up the national agenda.

The United Kingdom currently produces around 60 per cent of the food it consumes, and there is a strong case for supporting domestic production so that we are less exposed to global shocks and supply disruptions.

I want to thank the NFU, Julian Courtier and every farmer who gave up their time to join us. These conversations matter, and I will continue to raise the concerns of our farming community wherever I can.

I always welcome hearing from residents across Central Devon on the issues that matter to you.

Facebook: Mel Stride MP X: @MelJStride Instagram: @melstridemp Website: www.melstridemp.com