THE Torfaen MP has visited a farm in his constituency to discuss issues affecting those working in the industry.

Nick Thomas-Symonds accepted an invitation from the National Farmers Union (NFU) Cymru members following the successful Back British Farming event held at Westminster earlier in the year.

Among the issues discussed at the meeting were the burden of regulation on the industry, bovine tuberculous (TB), access routes, off-roading issues, broadband and mobile coverage.

Nick Thomas-Symonds said: “It was great to hear from local farmers about the challenges they are facing.

“I was very keen to hear about their experiences on the ground and I was grateful for the time everyone present took to set out the issues which will greatly assist me going forward.

“I have been taking up matters regarding broadband and mobile coverage ever since I was first elected, and will continue to do so; I have also been working with the Police and Crime Commissioner on the issue of off-road biking and will be continuing to pursue that.”

Ian Williams, the county chairman of the Monmouthshire NFU Cymru, said: “We were most fortunate to have the opportunity to discuss a range of issues affecting farmers with Nick Thomas-Symonds.

“In an urban constituency such as Torfaen, the sector employs 377 people, providing an economic value of £2.7million to the local area with a total additional spend of £5.7million related to farming.”