Lantra, the Sector Skills Council for environmental and land-based industries, has appointed three skills co-ordinators to help agriculture and forestry businesses in Wales reach their full potential and access subsidised training.

The co-ordinators will deliver the Farming Connect skills development programme as part of the Welsh Assembly’s flagship support service for farm and forestry businesses.

Lantra national director for Wales, Kevin Thomas, said: “The programme provides one-to-one support, knowledge, guidance and subsidised approved training to businesses registered with Farming Connect. It is important we have the right co-ordinators, equipped with the right knowledge and experience, enabling businesses to gain maximum benefit from the programme and we are pleased to announce that these are now on board.”

Managing the programme for Lantra and also skills co-ordinator for the south west region, will be Sarah Lewis, who has worked for Lantra for over four years and has worked closely with Farming Connect in the past.

Brought up on a family farm in Pembrokeshire, Sarah said: “I am well aware of training issues within agriculture and recognise the importance of investing in skills to profit the business. I am looking forward to assisting Welsh farmers benefit from the advice and funding available through the programme.”

To access subsidy for short accredited courses and free business skills assessment, farmers need to registered with Farming Connect (08456 000 813). Registered clients can then ring Lantra on 01982 552646 to receive the help of these dedicated skills co-ordinators who will help identify needs, provide information and co-ordinate funding applications.

For more information go to www.lantra.co.uk/wales.