THE following open letter to Prime Minister Blair came to us this week. To avoid embarrassment for the farmer involved, we are not publishing his name, or the name of the person who works on his accounts. We publish the letter because it outlines in a brief but powerful fashion the extreme difficulties some farmers are facing.

I do farm accounts for a hill farmer. Today, I went with him on his annual visit to his accountant to receive the financial news. He was told he made £20 last year! Not a lot to live on, is it?

I was encouraged by the accountant to enquire as to whether this "poor" man (who is extremely fit and hard-working) would be eligible for any financial help or benefit.

The Benefits Agency could not help as the farmer is neither disabled, out of work nor has he a child living with him. He is not entitled to Working Families tax credit either because the child he supports does not live with him.

This farmer sticks by all the often difficult and complex rules and regulations this Government has laid down. He treats his animals well and cares deeply for the land he works with, yet the media constantly criticise the likes of him for what he is putting on their plates or doing to "their" environment.

Life seems to be getting slightly out of balance somewhere. Although this man works harder and longer hours than most, he is offered no help whatsoever in times of crisis.

Please Mr Blair, help these fit, hard-working farming folk of your country.

Updated: 10:36 Wednesday, September 11, 2002