OSBPGAwards 2022

The 2022 Oxford Sandy and Black FoundationAwards celebrated the excellence and achievements of individuals who have made an impact on the OSB breed. With over 50 nominees and hundreds of votes from the OSBPG Charity supporters, the competition was fierce.

The first award presented was the Pig ExcellenceAward, which recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to the OSB breed in terms of high welfare, good husbandry and sustainable farming.The nominees were;

Mary Benfield (Piggin Good Pork), Lisa Corcoran (Engineman’s Smallholding),Anita Withers (Clifton Lodge Smallholding), Mike & Jayne Carter (Ryecroft Rare Breeds), Lydia Johnston (Cownwy Valley Produce), Fiona & Tristan Maclennan,Amanda Packford-Garrett, Helen Ellaway, Scrubditch Care Farm (Emma Costley-White & Gerry Fouracres), Kerrie Chalmers, Louise Blenkhorn, Bob Pratley, CliveAllcorn & Angela Pratt, Justin & Donna Newman (Happy Wallow), Lorraine Jones, EveAtkins, Aimee & Stephen Edmond (Poppyfields Fine Produce), Kathryn & Martin Smith, Lucy Ball and Heber Hargreaves

Lisa's passion for the OSB breed was evident in the dedication and hard work her good husbandry and high welfare standards was highly recognised from voters. Her commitment to preserving the breed's unique characteristics and improving its quality was inspiring. Lisa's expertise and knowledge of the breed were also noted by the judges, who were impressed by her innovative and effective breeding methods.

Overall, Lisa Corcoran's contribution to the OSB breed was recognized as exceptional by the judges and supporters alike. Her win was a testament to the importance of preserving and improving heritage breeds, and her achievement will undoubtedly inspire others to follow in her footsteps.

In addition to the Pig ExcellenceAward, the Oxford Sandy and Black FoundationAwards also included the Pork Producer of theYear Award.This award recognises individuals or businesses who have demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication in producing high-quality OSB pork.

The winner of the Pork Producer of theYear Award in 2022 was Ryecroft Rare BreedsMike and Jayne Carter and their children Lucy and Ben.This family-run business has not only raised some of the finest OSB pigs but also witnessed them set up their own butchery, where they support their local community and sell their delicious pork directly to customers.

Ryecroft Rare Breeds' commitment to the OSB breed and their unique approach to butchery was recognised as exceptional by the judges.Their dedication to producing high-quality pork has resulted in a growing fan base, and their butchery service has also supported other local producers in the area.

Overall, Ryecroft Rare Breeds' innovative approach to pork production and butchery was applauded by the judges and supporters alike.

Their win was a testament to the importance of supporting small-scale producers who prioritise animal welfare and sustainable farming practices.Their achievement will undoubtedly inspire others to explore similar avenues in their pursuit of producing high-quality pork while supporting their local communities.

The charity would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in the 2022Awards. With over 50 nominees and hundreds of votes cast by our wonderful supporters, this year's competition was a resounding success. We are especially grateful to Lisa Corcoran and Ryecroft Rare Breeds for their exceptional contributions to the OSB breed, and for setting the bar high for future nominees. We hope that their achievements will inspire others to continue working towards preserving and improving heritage breeds like the OSB. Once again, thank you to everyone who supports us and our mission to promote the conservation and welfare of the Oxford Sandy and Black pig and its pork.