Food and farming businesses across Somerset are being given the opportunity to learn more about preparations needed ahead of Brexit at an event being held near Shepton Mallet later this month.

The Government continues to prepare for the UK's exit from the European Union (EU) on October 31.

To prepare for this, the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is working with the National Farmers' Union (NFU), the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and Mendip District Council to deliver a free Ready for Brexit event at the Bath and West Showground on Wednesday, October 23.

The event is aimed at businesses within the farming, food and drink sectors, and is open to all businesses in the Somerset and South West area.

Businesses attending will be able to learn more about the latest information and signposted to technical support and advice to help them prepare for Brexit.

Cllr Peter Goater, portfolio holder for economic development, said: "We welcome Defra, the NFU and the Heart of the South West LEP supporting local businesses and working with the Economic Development team at the council to put this event on in Mendip.

"It should offer a good opportunity for local businesses in the farming, food and drink sectors to learn more about what they need to put in place in readiness for Brexit."

The event takes place on Wednesday, October 23, from noon to 2pm in the Wessex Pavilion, at the Bath and West Showground.

Alex Stevens, regional policy manager at the NFU, said: "This event is a chance for food and farming businesses to hear the latest advice and guidance direct from government as part of a two-way conversation.

"Equally, it also provides a forum to share thoughts on the threats and opportunities to come, with a range of businesses all facing the same challenges."

Those wishing to attend the events can register by clicking on the red button below.