rural campaigners say that new research has boosted their campaign for more employment.

The Country Land and Business Association (CLA), which wants more farmers to be able to diversify, said the Government's Action Plan for Farming had produced positive research.

Yorkshire regional director of the CLA, Dorothy Fairburn, said: "The research dealt with the way the planning policy guidance was being implemented in relation to the diversification of farm business."

She said it was encouraging that recommendations included closer partnerships between local planning authorities.

There was also a suggestion for written advice - like that given by North Yorkshire County Council - explaining how farm diversification applications should be dealt with.

"We firmly believe that farm diversification can help to revive the rural economy," she said.

"Where it can help, we believe local planning authorities should encourage it.