A NEW programme has been launched to give children the chance to have their say on the future of farming.

The NFU has launched its new Student and Young Farmer Ambassador Programme, which offers children, aged eight to 12, to put their stamp on the future of British farming as they represent the organisation for one year.

The programme is designed to give them the opportunity to build their knowledge and become an influential part of the industry, all while receiving the core skills they need to promote themselves and British farming.

The ambassadors will be representing the NFU at various events over the course of 12 months, including the NFU Conference and a #StudentFarmer magazine trip.

NFU next generation forum chairman Simon Gadd said: “The Ambassador Programme is a fantastic opportunity for young people, from both farming and non-farming backgrounds, to get stuck in to an industry that is both incredibly challenging and incredibly rewarding.

“With new technologies constantly changing the farming landscape and with Brexit on the horizon, it’s never been a more exciting time to think about the future of British farming.

“I urge all students and young farmers with a vested interest in farming and rural affairs to apply, and experience whole new aspects of the agricultural industry.”