THE NFU is extending and launching its virtual job centre earlier this year, after a successful trial last year.

The summer months are among the busiest on farms and horticultural units as crops are harvested and fruit, vegetables and flowers picked.

The virtual jobcentre - at www.NFUonline.com - will carry details of seasonal jobs across the country, offering the chance to pick strawberries, harvest herbs, prune trees and even make hay while the sun shines.

This year it is also linking up with www.gumtree.com, the web site for Australians, New Zealanders and South Africans living in the UK, many of whom are from rural backgrounds and who look for summer work.

There is a huge variety of seasonal work available, from tractor driving to working with sheep and cattle, and for experienced workers and novices.

Because so many farms have diversified there are often jobs for partners in bakeries, dairies and farm shops.

Many farms also offer accommodation for their workers, or can help find accommodation nearby.

The NFU is also encouraging people in work to consider casual jobs in the countryside as part of their holidays.