CHILDREN will be able to learn more about the link between food and farming thanks to the launch of a new ‘discover farming’ classroom at Bridport’s Washingpool Farm.

The Melplash Agricultural Society’s new initiative - Discover Farming - is all about helping young people to understand the connection between food and farming and the important role that farming and agriculture play in the local economy and environment.

It is hoped that by making children more aware of the importance of fresh food and healthy eating, they will also be encouraged to think about the career opportunities in agriculture brought about by the introduction of new technologies.

Marcus Beresford of the Melplash Agricultural Society said: “We feel it is really important to help young people to understand more about fresh food, farming and healthy eating.

“It’s also beneficial for them to realise what an important part farming plays in the local economy and the local environment.

“People who work directly in agriculture are the best qualified to deliver the message.

“Having the classroom and teaming up with Vicky and Simon Holland at Washingpool Farm, who have been running school farm visits for some years, has enabled us to engage with local schools.

“Some of these local schools are already planning Discover Farming visits into their 2015/16 curriculum.”

The opening of a Discover Farming classroom at Washingpool Farm enables the Melplash Agricultural Society to provide local schools with a new resource, where they can take children to learn about all aspects of farming to food production.

The official opening of the new classroom was attended by sponsors, supporters and volunteers of the society who have helped to make the initiative a reality.

Cllr Rebecca Knox, who was instrumental in obtaining the classroom from Dorset County Council, cut the ribbon to mark the opening.

The redundant classroom came from Wareham Middle School which is now closed.

Throughout the year, Simon and Vicky Holland of Washingpool Farm will be hosting school visits where children will see ‘up close and personal’ a number of farm activities and animals.

Visitors to this year’s Melplash Show on August 27 will also be able to take a Discover Farming trail around the show field.

In the new dedicated marquee at the show, there will be a selection of ‘farm to food’ activities and interactive demonstrations where children of all ages can get hands on experience.