A FACT-finding meeting for Craven farmers wanting answers over changes to inheritance tax rules is being held following public demand.

The evening Zoom meeting on December 16 and aimed at farmers in the Yorkshire Dales is one of two being organised by the Farmer Network following an open meeting at Penrith Auction. The full to capacity meeting heard Farmer Network Chair, Rob Hitch, a farm accountant and tax specialist, run through the rule changes, and what farmers might do to start the process of tax planning and farm succession.

The meeting was also an opportunity for farmers to hear from farm succession 'guru', Heather Wildman about how to discuss the 'elephant in the room' and better communicate with family members about succession.

With more than 100 people attending the meeting and others put on a waiting list, two online meeting have now been arranged, one for Cumbria and Northumberland, on December 11; and one for the Yorkshire Dales, on Monday, December 16; and additional workshops planned for the new year.

Adam Day, managing director of the Farmer Network, said: “Farm tax is no longer a dry subject and there are a lot of concerned farmers out there looking at their future in a completely different light following the budget. Our two online meetings will be a useful resource for farmers to better understand the tax changes and some potential solutions to consider”.

The meeting at 7.30pm on December 16 will include speakers, David Thomas of The Barker Partnership Accountants and Michael McGarry of McGarry and Co Solicitors. It will be chaired by Mr Day and will also include Peter Beresford of the Farming Community Network.

Places can be booked by contacting the Farmer Network Head Office on 01768 868614 or e-mailing admin@thefarmernetwork.co.uk Or via eventbrite.com - search Budget Information Webinar.