The National Farmers' Union has launched a campaign to inspire young people to take up jobs in agriculture.

The NFU's ‘Life on the Land’ report says that two-thirds of young people currently working in agriculture went to one of the rural colleges. However, nearly a fifth joined the industry straight after leaving school, while one in 10 got an apprenticeship.

It says that while the average farm income last year was just over £21,000, workers on specialist poultry farms can earn up to £77,000.

Vice-president Paul Temple says: "A life on the land in the 21st century is not just about muddy wellies and dirty finger nails - it's about adapting new technology, selling to your strengths and listening to your customer."