Wales YFC News

Entries are open for Menter Moch Cymru & Wales YFC Pig Finishing Initiative 2020

The next generation of pig producers in Wales will get the opportunity to get their futures off to a flying start with the launch of the Menter Moch Cymru & Wales YFC Pig Finishing Initiative 2020.

Aimed at introducing young people into the Welsh pig industry the annual competition is the result of a partnership between Menter Moch Cymru

and Wales YFC.

Open to YFC members across Wales; six finalists will receive five weaners of their chosen breed to rear, supported by expert training and mentoring by Menter Moch Cymru.

Support and training will be provided to develop the skills required to establish, manage and develop this new venture. They will receive practical advice on rearing through, to business skills, marketing and legislation – including the Welfare of Animals During Transport Certificate. 

Each young person will also receive on-going mentor support through the Menter Moch Cymru project.

Pigs can be kept in various management systems – both indoor and outdoor and can provide an alternative income and on-farm enterprise.

Many farms may already have suitable general-purpose buildings or land that is currently being under-utilised that could be easily converted for pig keeping, with little capital investment. 

“Menter Moch Cymru is delighted to be working with Wales YFC again on this exciting and unique opportunity for their members,” said Melanie Cargill, Menter Moch Cymru Project Manager.

“The initiative aims to encourage and support the next generation of pig farmers. It’s a great introduction for any young farmer thinking of entering the pig sector. Not only are they provided with the weaners to start them off, but they are also given training and support throughout the whole process.”

The Menter Moch Cymru programme is funded by the Welsh Government Rural Communities – Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the Welsh Government.

Said, Katie Davies, Wales YFC chairman, “Wales YFC is extremely grateful to Menter Moch Cymru for providing members once again with such a fantastic opportunity to learn valuable skills. Skills that will not only help them develop their enterprises but also support the development of the pig industry here in Wales.”

2019 participant and winner of the exclusive pig showing class at the Winter Fair, Elin Williams of Montgomery said, “The Menter Moch Cymru competition was such a valuable experience for me. It’s certain to say if it weren’t for the opportunity I would not have started keeping pigs, but I’m so glad I did.”

“The opportunity offered relevant training in terms of rearing the weaners along with preparing the animals for showing and selling the pork. The mentors gave specialist advice on feeding, health and welfare, processing and marketing of the finished product. 

“The programme has given me the confidence to keep pigs in the future and has provided me with a keen interest in the development of the pork industry in Wales.”

The application window for the Menter Moch Cymru & Wales YFC Pig Finishing Initiative 2020 opened on the 27^th April and will close on the 29^th May 2020.

For more information about how to enter, please go to www.mentermochcymru.co.uk or www.yfc.wales