FARMERS in Durham are being invited to attend a conference in Durham City to learn how cash crops can be grown in an environmentally sensitive manner.

The Integrated Crop Management (ICM) seminar has been organised by Durham County Council, along with the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group. The council says the seminar is part of its commitment to sustainable development.

Bill Kirkup, the council's landscape officer, said ICM is increasingly being promoted as a more sustainable approach to food production than conventional agriculture.

"Many farmers will be familiar with the concept of ICM from the farming Press, but may not have had the opportunity to determine its relevance to their situation," he said.

"The aim of this event is to provide farmers with the opportunity to hear from experts in this field, and the chance to question them on areas of interest or concern."

The seminar takes place on Thursday at the St Oswalds Golf Club Conference Centre, in Durham City. More details on 0191-383 4078