THE Bishop of Exeter is to ask all church communities to pray for farmers and farming communities this Sunday, May 5.

He has been supported by the United Reformed Church. South West leader Rev David Grosch-Miller is issuing a similar call to prayer this week.

Farmers are facing a crisis now that is as every bit as bad as the foot and mouth epidemic in 2001, said Bishop Michael.

Bishop Michael arrived as Bishop of the Diocese of Exeter shortly before the foot and mouth crisis, a time that left a deep mark on his ministry, he has said.

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, please see this week's edition of the 'Post'.