AN EXPERT in the wool industry will be meeting with upland farmers to discuss the process of production once the product leaves the farm.

The event next Wednesday has been organised by environmental charity Tyne Rivers Trust, after farmers who were members called for a better understanding of where the wool goes, and what prices were being made at the top.

Speaking on the day will be a producer marketing manager of British Wool, Gareth Jones, who will discuss with farmers market prices, production processes and consumer activity.

Tyne River Trust, which is funded by Natural England and the Countryside Stewardship Facilitation Fund, hosts regular workshops throughout the year for its 28 members, and often tailors the topics to issues of interest to farmers.

One such member who was eager to meet with wool industry experts was upland farmer Chris Harrison of Coatlith Hill in Alston.

Chris said he felt many farmers were at disadvantage when it came to their cut of profit for the hard work which they must undergo when shearing.

“I suggested a informative workshop on the wool industry, because I’m curious to how things work at the top,” he said.

“Farmers have representatives on the national wool board, and I’m sure they campaign very hard for us to receive a better cut, but its no secret that currently farmers receive very little for the wool they work hard to produce.

“Being able to meet with an industry professional would not only help educate me on the price of wool, but also teach me where it goes around the world, and how its made into final products.

“I don’t believe it is just me who has these questions.

“I think the talk would be of interest to many farmers, who have never had the opportunity to have the information given directly to us.”

Farm liaison officer Danielle Anderson Walker said that she was pleased that farmers were able to use the charity to gain information on the subjects which concerned or interested them.

“The talk should be of interest to hill farmers.

“But I also hope it will be of interest to the speaker, to hear what farmers have to say as it could be useful feedback for them.”