AHDB and NFU partner to create sheep industry group
The group is designed to help the UK sheep industry be regarded as a “world-class” sector and tackle important issues such as responsible medical use, as well as nutrition and disease surveillance.
AHDB and NFU are looking for farmers to provide information about health and welfare challenges amongst the sheep sector and provide feedback on initiatives or proposals through attendance at meetings.
Charles Sercombe, who is the NFU’s livestock board chairman and will head up The Sheep Health and Welfare Group, believes the independent body will make a difference to the industry.
“Being part of this group is a great opportunity to make a difference in the industry and influence the direction of travel of sheep health and welfare in the UK,” said Sercombe.
“In return, you are more in tune with the latest developments and influences which makes you look at how you manage your flock in a different light.”
AHDB’s sheep scientist Lis King, who will act as a secretariat for the group, has encouraged anyone keen to make a difference to the UK sheep industry to apply.
“Each farmer representative has a term of two years and can remain on the group for a maximum of three, two-year terms. The role is paid a small honorarium and expenses to attend the three meetings per year.”
Applications for the group will close on Monday 5 November. The successful candidates will be announced at the SHAWG conference on 21 November in Staffordshire.
