Douglas Chalmers, Director CLA North, accompanied by CLA Field Officer Liz Ward, an active farmer, will be visiting the Isle of Man to meet with CLA Members, landowners and rural businesses to find out first hand the opportunities and threats facing farmers landowners and rural businesses on the island.

The CLA is the membership organisation promoting, representing and advising owners of rural land, property and businesses. As well as providing professional advice to its members on a range of issue, it has an enviable track record in lobbying policy makers at all levels on behalf of its members.

Mr Chalmers said: "As we face the latest announcements on the review of the CAP, many questions need satisfactory answers – the balance between food production and the environment, renewable energy, water management, and how landscape management can support other parts of the economy.

"The Isle of Man sits in its own particular place in relation to the European Union, but the future of its land based economy is heavily influenced and affected by decisions made in Brussels. The CLA’s influence there should not be underestimated, and it will be opportunities such as this meeting that will help to brief our lobbying activities."

Anyone is welcome to attend the open meeting at the Glen Helen Inn, St Johns, on 24 November at 7.30pm but the CLA asks that you call Fiona Oldfield on 01539 567597, or email fiona.oldfield@cla.org.uk to confirm your attendance.