'With twenty host farms spread across all six counties, there is something for everyone to enjoy' - Northern Ireland families encouraged to support BOI Open Farm Weekend

“It was great to have an opportunity to catch up with project manager Wendy Gallagher at Balmoral Show,” said Ms Lockhart.

"I was very impressed with Mollie – the band-new mascot for Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend, designed by talented primary school

children Katelyn Baxter (Gortin PS) and Harry Donaldson (Derrygonnelly PS).

"Plans are well underway for this year’s event, and I’ve no doubt it will be another tremendous success.

"I commend the Ulster Farmer’s Union, Bank of Ireland and other key industry stakeholders for sponsoring this fantastic showcase for Northern Ireland agriculture.”

The DUP Agriculture spokeswoman added: “I would also like to thank the participating farms for their hard work in preparation for this excellent initiative.

"Farming is a vital part of our economy, and we are lucky to have such high-calibre family farms on our doorstep.

“With twenty host farms spread across all six counties, there is something for everyone to enjoy, whether you come from a farming background or are visiting a working farm for the very first time.”

Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend is a free, family-friendly event. It offers members of the public a unique opportunity to step beyond the farm gate, meet local farmers, learn about food production, and gain a greater appreciation for the farming enterprises that produce high-quality fully traceable food from ‘farm to fork’.

“The event showcases not only the quality food our farmers produce, but also their vital work, investment and commitment to animal welfare, environmental stewardship, sustainability and innovation,” explained the MP.

“At a time when agriculture continues to face significant challenges, including increasing regulation and financial pressures, it has never been more important for consumers to understand where their food comes from and the everyday contribution family farms make to food security and the wider economy in Northern Ireland.”

Visitors to Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend can look forward to a packed programme of activities, including farm tours, cookery demonstration and food tastings, machinery displays, tractor rides, treasure hunts and interactive learning experiences.

Carla Lockhart MP added: “A number of farms are only open on Friday, 12th June for pre-arranged educational visits from schools across the province. These visits provide an invaluable opportunity for young people to learn about food production, livestock, crops

and the importance of agriculture in everyday life.”

Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend promises to be a memorable and fun-filled day out for the whole family.

Further details, and a list of locations and opening times for participating farms, is available on social media. Alternatively, log on to www.openfarmweekend.com