DEPRESSED farm incomes in Herefordshire could be boosted by a new scheme to create more 'away days' for farmers in other types of work.

The 550-member '7Y' farmers' machinery ring was launched 11 years ago and met with success with its 'dating agency' approach. It matches those needing and those offering many types of machinery.

Now the Leominster-based co-operative is to try the same approach with skilled workers with the launch of '7Y People.'

Nick Tilt, manager of the new enterprise, says the recruitment initiative is open to any worker with something to offer, not just those from a farming background. But people from the farm sector are expected to form the core of the workforce.

"Farming is in the doldrums and there is a need to find more work, particularly in the winter months," said Nick.

"Many people who work on the land have valuable skills they can offer to the industrial and commercial sectors whether in welding, operating a fork-lift, a JCB or driving a heavy goods vehicle."

7Y (the name derives from the rivers) is also offering people with office and administration skills and other extra pairs of hands through a 'Builders Mate' scheme. That provides extra labour for plumbers, bricklayers and other craftsmen.

The project, based at Wharton Court, near Leominster, runs its own training scheme which is set up to rapidly respond to the needs of customers.

Says Nick Tilt: "It's a changing scene out there and we want to adapt and go with the flow.

"Farmers are often sitting on a huge capital asset but are struggling with income. Doing some work outside can, potentially, help them to stay on the farm."

l Nick Tilt and recruitment consultant Libby Bevan can be contacted on 01568 610077.