Dairy farmers can now access £10,000 of government hardship money in a move that will be a Coronavirus lifeline for Gloucestershire’s milk producers, said Stroud MP Siobhan Baillie.

Any local dairy farmer who has lost more than 25% of their income over April and May due to Covid-19 issues can claim the money.

Ms Baillie has been lobbying ministers for several weeks for the support as many farms have suffered a significant drop in demand because restaurants and cafes have closed.

“I will not rest for our farming community across Gloucestershire, in Stroud, the Valleys and Vale because support is much needed as dairy and beef farmers have been particularly affected by the closure of much of the hospitality industry,” said Ms Baillie on Thursday.

“The money will be a lifeline for many and comes at a time of real concern and worry for the industry.

"However, it won’t last forever and I will continue to make the case that support must be ongoing.”

Stroud's MP said the coronavirus crisis arrived following a period of depressed dairy prices and difficult winters, which has made the situation worse. She has been in contact with farmers across the county to talk to them about what is happening.

Local farmer, Liz Godsell of Godsells Cheese in Leonard Stanley said: “It is great news the government is taking notice that farmers are critical to food production during the coronavirus crisis. Access to urgent support is really important right now.

“We need to be able look after our staff and animals even when times are difficult as the work continues. I have spoken to Ms Baillie on a number of occasions about the pressures on the dairy industry. I know she is working with the NFU to fight our corner for stability in the sector so we can provide food now and in the future.”

Ms Baillie is also supporting a £1m joint venture between government and the farming industry to help increase the sales of dairy products and has spoken to Gloucestershire National Farmers’ Union about it.