David Cameron has said Northern Ireland is better off in a reformed EU - pointing out that 60% of its exports go to the union.

Ahead of his first visit to the region since the referendum date was announced, the Prime Minister said leaving the single market would be a "leap in the dark".

Mr Cameron said: "I’m clear that the people of Northern Ireland, and the whole UK, are better off in a reformed European Union.

"More than 60% of Northern Ireland’s exports go to the EU, and around 40% of its investment comes from the EU. Putting that at risk is a leap in the dark."

The PM, visiting Northern Ireland later, also highlighted the importance of the EU to the region's large farming sector.

He said: "It’s vital that the voices of Northern Ireland’s farmers are heard in this debate.

"They want security and certainty. I've never argued the EU is perfect, but I believe a reformed Europe gives them access to a huge single market and an income that helps them keep food prices low for families.

"Those who want the UK to leave the EU need to give answers on their alternatives."

Mr Cameron has vowed to visit all regions in the UK as part of his efforts to make his case for staying in the EU.

The main political parties in Northern Ireland are split over the issue.

Sinn Fein, the SDLP and the cross-community Alliance Party all want the UK to remain within the EU.

The Democratic Unionists support Brexit.

The Ulster Unionists have delayed picking a side until they have a debate on Mr Cameron's EU reform deal.

Party leaders are expected to make their position clear next week.

G20 finance ministers say 'Brexit' would be "shock"

Meanwhile, G20 finance ministers meeting in Shanghai, China, said Brexit would be a "shock" for the world economy.

Chancellor George Osborne said fellow leaders agreed it was one of the "biggest economic dangers this year".

The warning came as Boris Johnson rejected the idea that Brexit could trigger a better deal from Brussels and a second referendum - insisting "out is out".

The Mayor of London told The Times: "What I want is to get out and then negotiate a series of trade arrangements around the world."

Asked if he was ruling out a second vote, he said: "I don't think it would be necessary."

The Gruffalo

The illustrator behind The Gruffalo says the best-selling children's book only exists because the UK's in the EU.

German-born Axel Scheffler came to Britain to study in 1982, before going on to collaborate with Julia Donaldson.

The Gruffalo's sold 13 million copies worldwide.

Mr Scheduler says he can't believe the in out referendum to decide whether Britain should leave the European Union, is happening: