BREXIT will give the UK the best chance it has had in 45 years to make a better system for farmers and the environment, the head of an Oxfordshire conservation body has said.

Henry Oliver, director of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, also said it was 'fantastic' to see so many people from both fields as well as business working together to seize the opportunities.

He was speaking at a forum hosted by his group on Wednesday to examine how Brexit will affect both farming and nationally-protected landscapes and wildlife.

Some100 farmers, landowners, councillors, conservationists, residents and supporters attended the event held at Rushall Farm near Bradfield in Berkshire.

Speaking after the event Mr Oliver said: "This is a time of enormous uncertainty for farming and the countryside.

"That carries big risks but it also presents us with our best opportunity for 45 years to make a better system that benefits farmers, our environment and the public.

"It’s fantastic to see so many individuals – farmers, residents, conservationists and business owners – get together to consider how we can best support, sustain, protect and enhance this outstandingly beautiful landscape in future."