EVERYONE involved in farming is invited to a Christmas party on Friday, December 14, at Laycock's Animal Health in Showfield Lane, Malton.

There'll be food and drink, presents, a prize draw plus music, comedy and videos. Invitations went to the firm's customers. But Laycocks is inviting everyone from the farming community, plus friends and family, from 11am until late.

"It's been a tougher year than usual for everyone in farming and the ancillary trades due to events beyond our control," says the public invitation. "Morale among farmers and country people has been at an all-time low. Let's try and put it all behind us for one day at least - come on down to the bright lights of Malton and have a party on us."

Laycocks hopes that among the guests will be Derek Watson and Bob Hicks from the NFU, MP John Greenway and MEP Robert Goodwill, so you can chat to them while you enjoy the festivities.

Updated: 10:44 Thursday, December 13, 2001