LEAVING the European Union (EU) without a deal would be a “nightmare waiting to happen” according the National Farmers’ Union (NFU).

Group secretary Geoffrey Todd said was vital for the farming industry that the country did not see a no-deal Brexit.

“Everything produced by famers in this country is produced to the highest standard possible,” he said.

“If we leave the EU without a deal it opens the doors for imports which will not be of the same standard.

“A no-deal would be a nightmare waiting to happen.”

Mr Todd said farming had faced another difficult year with the wet weather.

He said: “Farmers are very intertwined with the weather and after a wet spring they are waiting for some sunshine so they can start looking at winter barley and harvesting so things are a bit behind at the moment.”

Aside from Europe the farming industry was is also looking at extending its trading into China.

“The country obviously has a large population and they are increasingly looking at the Western diet and importing lamb and red meat which will hopefully open up that market to British producers,” Mr Todd said.

“However at the moment this is all an aside to the main issue of resolving Brexit.”

Mr Todd said Malton Show gave farmers the opportunity to have a day off and socialise with friends and family.

“Everyone always loves coming to Malton Show and meeting with friends,” he added.

“It is a great show in a lovely setting and people really enjoy the day.”