Graham Miles, the agricultural chaplain for Suffolk, says a raft of industry challenges has been taking a huge toll on the mental health of farmers across the region.

He wrote to the prime minister in March to express his concerns and is awaiting a date for a meeting to raise these issues with government officials at Defra.

But he said he was shocked and saddened by a steep rise in reports of suicides in recent weeks, which he received from grieving families and friends.

He said: "Over the last three weeks it has been the worst time ever for me since I became agricultural chaplain for Suffolk, with four suicides and two attempts brought to my attention from across East Anglia. This is so sad news for everyone involved.

"Mental health and wellbeing is still a major concern among our farming communities across the country, and especially here. I am working closely with the NFU (National Farmers' Union) and CLA (Country Land and Business Association) to give support and pastoral care when needed.

"I have been offered a meeting with Defra to express my concerns regarding mental health and wellbeing and to let them........

© Eastern Daily Press