Dairy suppliers to farmers' co-operative First Milk have received a double boost.

First Milk has announced its member milk price will increase by 0.5ppl on a manufacturing basis from May 1. This takes the price to 29.43ppl.

The change to reporting on a manufacturing standard litre is due to all members now being paid on manufacturing contracts. The 4.2 per cent butterfat and 3.4 per cent protein also more accurately reflect the quality of milk members are producing.

Members will also receive their member premium on April 20 for the milk they produced in 2020/21 milk year. For the average member this is just over £4,800.

Commenting on the milk price increase, Robert Craig, farmer director and vice-chairman, said: “I am delighted we are able to increase the price paid to our members. It goes some way to reflect the increasing costs they are experiencing in their businesses."