People from farming families are to be recruited to give advice and help to farm businesses in North Yorkshire.

Business Link North Yorkshire, based in York, is setting up the inquiry service and is appealing to people to apply for part-time jobs as inquiry officers.

David Campbell, farm business project officer, said: "We need people with a knowledge of agriculture and an understanding of what is happening in farming.

"These are ideal jobs for people with personal experience who need to earn some extra money during these difficult times for agriculture. Someone who does not want to work full-time but is looking to increase the family income would be ideal."

The farm business inquiry officers will be based at Business Link's office and information centre at Monks Cross Drive, Huntington, York.

They will collect information from farms in York and North Yorkshire.

Mr Campbell said: "These jobs start from next month and working hours can be flexible. We believe there are something like 16,500 farmers in the area, and many of them will be seeking help."

Richard Howard-Vyse, chairman of the Yorkshire branch of the Country Landowners' Association, which is supporting the scheme, said: "This is something which is needed both by the farmer and his family.

"Advice is always welcome when it comes from an expert and additional income will be welcomed by many farmers."