More than 200,000 visit Open Farm Sunday event

Open Farm Sunday has been hailed a success after the event attracted more than 200,000 people – a record-breaking number of visitors.

While final figures are still being obtained, organisers Linking Environment And Farming (LEAF) said the attendance on Sunday 8 June would rise above the 205,000-mark.

LEAF put the success down to public support for farming, extensive publicity and warm sunshine across most of the country.

In total, 375 farms across England, Scotland and Wales opened their gates, from the most southerly farm on the Lizard in Cornwall to the northernmost on the Orkney Islands.

Annabel Shackleton, Open Farm Sunday manager, paid tribute to the 6,000 farmers and workers who took part.

“Once again farmers have done the industry proud – showcasing the best of British farming. I would also like to extend our gratitude to all our sponsors who helped make it all possible and provided resources for farmers, in-store promotions and on-farm support.”

Ms Shackelton added: “Next year will be the 10th anniversary of Open Farm Sunday, so please put 7 June 2015 in your diary now so we can make the celebrations even bigger.”

More information available online or follow @openfarmsunday on Twitter.