Desperate farmers are to receive more than £3,000 in crisis aid thanks to the North Devon Journal.

The paper launched the North Devon Crisis Aid Appeal to help farm workers whose livelihoods are threatened by the foot and mouth epidemic.

And within a week, generous readers have donated £3,100 to the fund.

Now the paper is calling for businesses in the region to add their weight to the appeal.

Managing editor Andy Cooper explained: “I said last week this was a chance for North Devon to show its true community spirit and it has done just that.

“Can I please call on all businesses locally who care about the community they work in to match the Journal in donating to our fund.”

Money raised will be shared between key organisations which can provide practical support for farmers affected by the crisis.

North Devon District Council has already pledged £20,000 to help and now Torridge District Council is backing the Journal’s efforts.

Chief executive Richard Brasington said: “I am pleased to confirm that the council’s emergency committeehas agreed to join with you in support of the overall approach.”

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