The NFU is launching a hotline giving shoppers top tips on where to buy a local, fresh, flavoursome turkey direct from the farm for their Christmas Day celebrations.

The hotline, which aims to cut out the hassle for shoppers by pointing them in the direction of their nearest farm through just one telephone call, will run until Christmas Eve.

NFU deputy president Tim Bennett said: By choosing a turkey straight from the farm, shoppers are assured of buying good quality and value fresh local meat raised to high animal welfare standards. The taste is even better when you know you are giving a boost to the local rural economy at the same time.

Over 150 farmers have committed themselves to marketing their 50,000 fresh farm turkeys directly to members of the public in this way.

Farmers who want to help publicise the scheme should contact Wales office (01792 774848). The initiative will be publicised through a leaflet that is being distributed to the public via NFU regional offices and the hotline number is 0870 8481430.