THE Northmoor Trust farm at Little Wittenham is staging an open day on Thursday to encourage people who are not regular visitors to the countryside to visit farms and learn more about what the countryside can offer.

It is one of several farms throughout the South East of England taking part in Farm Walks organised by LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) and RPM (Raceaway Project Management) as part of Natural England's regional farm demonstration programme.

The walks link with half-term. Families will be able to see how the countryside is managed and protected. The idea is to help young people understand more fully the links between farming, food production, environmental issues and responsible enjoyment of the countryside. The emphasis will be on how decisions on what food to buy affect the landscape and life in it.

Camilla Harris, from LEAF, said: "These events are an excellent way of reaching out to a wide range of people who might not ordinarily visit farms or the countryside and explaining to them the benefits and opportunities of access but also the responsibilities that go with it.

"Farmers have a fantastic story to tell and one which is relevant to us all about how they produce our food, care for their animals, protect the environment and look after the countryside. We hope that these events will enable more people to understand the vital role farmers play as custodians of the countryside and producers of our food."