The countdown has started to the launch of a new NFU website that uses the latest technology to deliver news and information tailored to meet the needs of individual farmers.

NFUonline will go live next month and will offer an unrivalled source of information to NFU members.

There will be regional and sector-specific information, a new market analysis service and a complete overview of UK and European agriculture policy - all at the click of a mouse.

Also at farmers' fingertips will be an advanced search facility, a frequently updated news service and exclusive competitions.

NFU President Ben Gill said: "NFUonline will offer farmers easy access to the information they need to take into account when running their businesses effectively in during difficult market conditions.

"There will be nowhere better to go for comprehensive coverage of the political and technical issues affecting agriculture today."

NFUonline will replace the existing member website, NFUnet. The new website - www.nfuonline.com - will be launched at the NFU's annual general meeting on 18 February.

.