Young farmer issues appeal for winter accommodation for his cattle

Farming Connect’s Venture team are helping a young dairy and beef farmer who is desperately seeking winter accommodation for his herd after being forced to leave his current holding.

James Davies is having to depart the Pembrokeshire farm where he runs his herd of 170 cows and in-calf heifers and 100 beef cattle due to an unforeseen change of circumstances for the farm’s owner.

If he can’t find alternative accommodation quickly he will have no choice but to sell the stock.

His situation is complicated by the herd’s TB status – it is currently subject to movement restrictions.

“We have got a test on November 5^th and are hoping to go clear,’’ says James. “It is my understanding that the cattle can be moved to winter housing subject to a movement licence, APHA veterinary risk assessment and if no other cattle are present on the farm.’’

He is anxious to secure a future for his business.

James, aged 29, relocated his herd to Pembrokeshire from Cornwall in March and had been milking the cows on a dairy farm near Haverfordwest.

He was brought up on a dairy farm in New Quay, Ceredigion, and had always wanted to farm in his own right.

James is being supported through Farming Connect’s Venture programme, designed to match farmers and landowners who are looking to step back from the industry with new entrants looking for a way into farming.

He has not yet found a match under this programme and says that due to his current predicament he is now running out of options.

“I am hoping that there is someone out there that can help me. Everything I have done to get to this point has been a leap of faith and I don’t want to give up now. I want to carry on milking.’’

The package of support offered by Farming Connect includes one-to-one mentoring and his designated mentor, Lilwen Joynson has been instrumental in helping him review his options and make an action plan. Einir Davies, who manages the Venture and Mentoring programmes for Farming Connect said, “James’ determination to get through his current crisis, against all odds is inspirational and his work ethic and commitment to succeed should be admired”.

Anyone who might be in a position to help James can contact him on 07809 183208 or daviespenyrallt@hotmail.co.uk. Alternatively you can contact the Venture team at Farming Connect by visiting www.gov.wales/farmingconnect or call 08456 000813.