FARMERS in Wiltshire can find out about the biggest change facing agriculture for 30 years when a roadshow visits the region next month.

The event, organised by the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the Rural Payments Agency, will show farmers how to apply for the Single Payment Scheme.

Farmers used to be paid grants according to their sheep or cattle numbers, but from 2006 they will receive the SPS, which will be linked to various environmental conditions.

The roadshow for the region takes place at the Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet on February 16 and features morning and afternoon sessions.

There will be short presentations on the SPS and question and answer sessions to deal with individual farmers' concerns.

Food and farming minister Lord Whitty said: "This is the biggest change in agriculture in the last 30 years and our objective is to make sure that farmers know how the Single

Payment Scheme will work in practice."

Demand is expected to be heavy and places for the event, one per farm, will be allocated on a first-come first-served basis.

Farmers can call 0870 043 4109 to book, or register on-line at www.keystone-group.co.uk/SPS.