Farmers march along A59 near Preston over produce dispute

Three tractors as well as a large group of supporters on foot and in their cars started their march from the Tickled Trout services, next to junction 31 of the M6 near Preston.

The group marched in the road carrying signs with messages such as ‘No Farmers No Food’ adorning a picture of a tractor.

After leaving the service station, they marched onto the A59 and crossed the roundabout, headed under the M6 before coming back round the roundabout on the other side and marching up Brockholes Brow towards Preston.

A small police presence was visible within the crowd, but the demonstration remained peaceful.

Many of the vehicles coming down Brockholes Brow towards the services beeped their car horns in support as the protesters marched up the hill, with loud cheers greeting them back.

Further signs with slogans such as ‘Back British Farming’ were seen further up the hill.

READ MORE: Lancashire 'farmers' to march in convoy in row over fair pricing for produce

The demonstration caused large queues to build up in both directions depending on where the group were marching, and motorists were warned to find alternative routes if possible.

A spokesperson for Preston Police said: “Please be aware that there is currently a peaceful protest causing traffic disruption in the area of Brockholes, Tickled Trout, Samlesbury, and the J31 roundabout off the M6.

“We would advise to avoid the area and use an alternative route if possible. Thank you for your patience.”

Farmers nationwide say they are struggling due to people not buying local produce and supermarkets not paying them a ‘fair price’ for their goods, while important produce such as meat and vegetables at cheaper prices.

Signs of support were displayed in vehicles parked along Brockholes Brow (Image: NQ)

A spokesperson for Lancashire Farmers Movement said: “We want to get as many people as possible on the roundabouts with yellow boards and placards with the words ‘No Farmers, No Food’.

“There are many farmers who are struggling; at one time you could say you never saw a poor farmer, but that’s not the case now.

“So many farmers have to go out and find other jobs to cover their costs to pay the rent on the farming land, because they are being ripped off by the supermarkets and are not being paid what they need or deserve to survive.”