Menter Moch Cymu and YFC join forces once again to help kindle entrepreneurial success

Are you a member of a Young Farmers Club, fuelled with passion for pigs, and looking for a diversification opportunity? If so the annual joint venture between Menter Moch Cymru and Wales YFC could be the answer for you, as it aims to encourage the next generation of pig keepers and gets our farmers thinking about rearing pigs.

The competition is open to YFC members all over Wales and is a unique way of introducing the younger generation to the Welsh pig industry.

Six finalists will receive five weaners of their own chosen breed to rear and will also be entered into a bespoke training programme to help them with their new found venture. The training programme includes pig husbandry and welfare, legislation, feed and nutrition with additional training sessions throughout the year. As well as constant support and mentoring for the finalists from pig experts.

The highlight of the project will be entering an exclusive pig fat classes at the Winter Fair 2021, and the overall winner of this year’s competition will be announced.

Ceredigion young farmer Teleri Evans from Pontsian YFC, winner of the 2020 competition said that she would encourage anyone to take part in the initiative.

“My highlight was winning both classes and winning the overall competition. We did put a lot of work into it but it was worth it in the end. I enjoyed every aspect of it and watching the piglets grow. Seeing the end product in the boxes was a good feeling as well and having feedback from customers.”

“Since taking part we have kept going with the pigs and the business is growing and we have started selling cooked products from the pigs as faggots and hopefully more products will be available soon,” she added.

Menter Moch Cymru is an initiative that aims to support and develop the pig sector in Wales. The project 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.

Melanie Cargill, Menter Moch Cymru Project Officer added:

“Menter Moch Cymru is delighted to be working with Wales YFC for the fourth consecutive year on this exciting and unique opportunity for their members.”

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

All past participants enjoyed the positive experience and encourage members of the YFC to enter for this exciting annual competition.

Past participant Angharad Thomas from Dyffryn Tywi YFC added that taking part in the initiative was such a positive experience, and gave her the opportunity to start her own business:

“Without a doubt, if any Wales YFC member has an interest, a space in a shed, or field then go for it. Don’t think twice about it. The experience has been extremely valuable, and without the opportunity, I would not of had the confidence to start my own business of selling meat boxes. I cannot thank Menter Moch Cymru and Wales YFC enough for the opportunity.”

The closing date for applications is 10:00 on the 28th May 2021.

Pigs can be kept in different management systems, both indoors and outdoors can be considered and can provide alternative income for the farm.

Many farms may already have a suitable general-purpose building or land that is currently being under utilized that could easily be converted for pig keeping with little capital investment. Therefore, providing an alternative income for your farm, whilst utilising your farm’s resources.

For further details and to access the application form please visit www.mentermochcmyru.co.uk