The Sandy Pig Magazine - Issue #6 Autumn 2023

The S ndy Pig Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Foundation Charity Magazine

Issue 6 Autumn 2023

Photo: Shaun Jennings

Magazine MEATing Our Pork Producers

Charity Status for Scotland Achieved

New Podcast - a Tale from Arngask Farm

In This Issue 3. Lets Rootle 4. Fundraising Events 5. Official Scottish Charity Status 6. Upcoming Events & Replays 7. 2023 OSBPG Awards 8. OSB Pork Results 9. Soya Free Pig Feed 10. Farrowing Updated 13. MEATing our OSB Pork Producers 17. Seasonal Infertility 19. Competition Time 20. OSBPG Pork Labels 21. Farming Through the Eyes of a Child 23. OSBPG GSA Program 25. Vet Chat 26. OSBPG Shop Discount 27. OSB Pork Recipe 28. Breeder & Producers

Photo by Kathleen O’Shea

Photo:Ryecroft Rare Breeds

Lets Rootle - did you remember to turn your clocks back Since our Summer issue, we have been immersed in a whirlwind of activities, from agricultural shows to holding informative talks and events. As this chapter draws to a close, we are excited to embrace our annual winter adventures, all of which are found here in our magazine. Commencing with our online pig-keeping courses in November and February, then: ● ●

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The OSBPG Awards for Pig Excellence and Pork Producer 2023 are in full swing. If you haven't had the chance to put forward your nominee, fret not, the deadline for nominations is midnight on 30 November.

In our continued commitment to listening to our cherished supporters, we are thrilled to announce the discovery of a soya-free feed for our pigs. This is a momentous development as many of us are focusing on the sustainable breeding and rearing of our OSBs while actively reducing our carbon footprint. The feed mill we have partnered with shares our unwavering dedication to this cause.

We are thrilled to share that we have achieved the status of a registered charity in Scotland. This recognition underscores the tireless efforts we have invested in supporting independent pork producers, breeders, and keepers, as well as our unswerving commitment to creating a better future for our bloodlines and their breeding potential. It's worth noting that the OSBPG is the only breed registered as a charity in both England & Wales and Scotland.

We have forged invaluable friendships that are instrumental to our mission. These connections empower us to inspire and support individuals across the country. We deeply acknowledge the significance of a robust community foundation that provides crucial support networks, especially to those who may be isolated. This enables us to exchange resources, knowledge, and skills, thus contributing to the resilience and prosperity of the OSBPG Community. ●

We are pleased to announce the reinstatement of our Monthly Get Together, starting in November through to March, hosted by Lisa Corcoran, one of our dedicated trustees.

The challenging weather conditions have affected many within our community. If you find yourself facing difficulties, the OSBPG Charity is here for you. Contact any of our trustees. No matter the scale of the situation, we are here to help. Pride should not stand in the way of seeking the help you require.

If you share our commitment to supporting the rural and the farming OSB pig community and understand the vital role that friendships play in livelihoods, we invite you to become a friend of the OSBPG Charity. A one-off payment of GBP10.00 for individuals or GBP16.00 for couples, or any donation through our website will contribute significantly to securing a brighter future for our pigs and our supporters in the rural communities of Great Britain.

We extend our heartfelt thanks for your unwavering support to the charity and your dedication to our wonderful breed. You are helping us in making a tangible impact on the lives of those we serve.

From all at OSBPG HQ, we would like to wish you, your family, and your livestock a very Merry Christmas.

MAKE A FUN DAY WITH A FUNDRAISING DAY By holding an event, whether it be a farm open day, a competing event like running, cycling, swimming, dancing, having a stall at a country show, hosting a coffee morning, helping organise a community or school event, enjoying cake with friends, or even participating in a charity fundraiser, you can make a meaningful impact.

Consider one of our fundraising packs, which are brimming with goodies, inspiration, and support materials to assist you in running a successful event. The aim is to raise awareness of our beautiful Oxford Sandy and Black breed and all the joys they bring, as well as the incredible work accomplished by those hosting the event through breeding and rearing outdoors, resulting in wonderful produce.

To receive your free fundraising pack for your upcoming events, please apply here.

Raising awareness of our remarkable breed and the OSBPG Charity, which is always here to support each and every one of you, is crucial. It goes without saying that we couldn't achieve as much as we have without the unwavering support of individuals like you, our valued supporters. Thank you for your dedication and passion for our cause.

Together, we can make a real difference.

To register your wonderful ideas of fun and obtain your free fundraising pack, email:

fundraising@osbpg.org

Your Charity Officially Recognised by the OSCR After three successful years as a registered charity in England and Wales, our organisation embarked on an exciting expansion journey. In the summer of this year, we initiated the process of applying to the OSCR (The Scottish Charity Regulator) to become an officially recognised charity in Scotland. This diligent application process took approximately one month to complete, demonstrating our commitment to achieving this milestone.

Photo:Ryecroft Rare Breeds We are thrilled to announce that our efforts bore fruit, as we were granted charity status by the OSCR. This achievement marks a significant milestone, as we proudly become the first pig breed-dedicated charity in Scotland.

Our dedication to our mission, coupled with this new recognition, enables us to extend our reach and make an even greater positive impact on the welfare and conservation of our Oxford Sandy and Black in the beautiful Scottish landscape.

Upcoming Events & Replays Cook a Long with Natalie Revette

Podcast Lloyd & Eilidh Verstage

Join us as we embark on a culinary journey with Natalie Revett, who will guide us through the process of creating a delectable masterpiece using a prime cut of Oxford Sandy and Black Pork Fillet/Tenderloin. Get ready to tantalise your taste buds!

From Shutter Clicks to OSB Pigs - The Remarkable Journey of Farming & Rare Breed OSB Pork at Arngask Farm (S5E3).

Christmas Competition

It's that exciting time of year once more.

The eagerly anticipated OSBPG Christmas Competition is just around the corner. What prizes await this year? What ingenious challenges has Andrew prepared to stimulate our intellect? All will be revealed on December 1st across our various social media platforms.

Join us for an inspiring and heartwarming conversation with Eilidh and Lloyd Verstage as they share their incredible journey.

Winter Get Togethers are back

Hosted by Lisa Corcoran - OSBPG Trustee.

Running from November through March, our virtual get togethers are back. They kick off on Friday 24th November. Further dates will be published on our social media platforms.

Register Now for November

OSBPG Awards 2023 The OSBPG Awards for Pig Excellence and Pork Producer 2023 are in full swing.

If you haven't had the chance to put forward your nominee, fret not, the deadline for nominations is midnight on 30 November 2023.

As we mark our third year, we celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of our independent pork producers, breeders, and keepers who tirelessly promote sustainable, high welfare, ethically raised, outdoor reared Oxford Sandy and Black Pigs.

To recognise these individuals who deserve appreciation for their hard work and dedication send your nominations to: Awards@oxfordsandyblackpiggroup.org

OSBPG - OSB Pork Analysis 2023 Your OSB Pork production, data is not just numbers, we started recording data late 2021, where meticulous records commenced, culminating in a remarkable 23,000 tonnes of OSB Pork to date.This year so far, we have recorded 11,500 tonnes of our precious OSB Pork. But numbers alone don't tell the whole story; they require context.

The average live weight of our OSB Pigs, is recorded with a robust 86 kg. However, the transformation from live weight to the market-ready state yields an average dead weight of 60 kg, signifying a meticulous process that ensures a 74.3% yield of usable, delectable OSB Pork.

Gender diversity carcass distribution shows 101 males and 56 females in our production landscape. This contributes to the variety of cuts from our OSB pork. After all OSB pork produces fall-of-the-bone joints, juicy sausages, tasty bacon, out of this world crackling and exquisite charcuterie.

Speaking of variety, the produce is vast and various. Showing popularity of 120 Roasting Joints to 15 Cheeks. The produce is varied and represents consumers tastes and requirements with positive outcomes, see the popularity of cuts in the chart below.

SOYA FREE PIG FEED Once again, the OSBPG Charity is actively engaged with our supporters and members, and as such we have listened to your requests. We have been keenly exploring feed options, specifically focusing on soya-free feed. We are delighted to share the tremendous feedback we've received, reflecting a high level of interest.

The enthusiasm for our soya-free pig feed has been nothing short of remarkable. This feed is provided and produced by Harpers Feed, a respected and trusted supplier and part of the Massey Feed Group. What's more, the mill's strategic location positions it perfectly to efficiently serve the three South West moorland regions, and it offers delivery services throughout the South West. Additionally, thanks to a network of Merchants, the production of this feed extends its reach to a wider geographical area.

Harpers Feed, joining the Massey Feed Group in February 2012, is an independent manufacturer with a distinguished history spanning over 140 years in customer supply. Notably, in 2015, Harpers Feed expanded its product and service offerings. They also placed a strong emphasis on environmental responsibility, actively managing their environmental commitment through an environmental management system, and adhering to ISO14001 standards. This commitment includes efforts to reduce their carbon footprint and champion sustainable farming practices.

The soya-free feed is available in 20kg bags or dumpy bags, in sow rolls or 6 ml pencils, with a minimum order of 1 tonne (50 bags), and delivery options. The current price is GBP8.50 per bag, with indications that the price may decrease next month. The protein level is 15%.

As part of the OSBPG Charity's ongoing efforts to support our members, we are excited to introduce this initiative. We are still collecting information to share with Harpers, which will help determine geographical preferences, delivery requirements, and desired quantities. Once these details are established, you will have the autonomy to place orders directly with the supplier. Further details will be released once Harpers and OSBPG have finalised the strategies and organised final routes.

In an era where consumers are increasingly concerned about the source and sustainability of their food, and are showing more interest in supporting local and sustainable farming practices, there is a growing trend to inquire about how our pigs are fed. With this in mind, we are confident that this initiative will complement your pigs and their produce.

We hope that our dedication and unwavering commitment to you, our members and supporters, and the well-being of our pigs shine through in this initiative, just as it does in all our other efforts designed for you and your pigs.

For your reference, we show the nutritional composition. For some of you, we are still awaiting details on quantities and geographical locations.

For further information and to enquire about this exciting OSBPG Charity initiative email feed@oxfordsandyblackpiggroup.org

OSBPG Farrowing Update

Here is a summary of OSB breeding so far in 2023 by our Charity supporters; Gilt Count: This represents the number of young female pigs ● The highest Gilt Count is in May with 90. ● The lowest Gilt Count is in August with 49.

Boar Count: This represents the number of male breeding pigs. ● The highest Boar Count is in June with 111. ● The lowest Boar Count is in February with 64.

Farrowings: This represents the number of times sows gave birth in a month. ● The highest number of farrowings is in June with 22. ● The lowest number of farrowings is in March with 13.

Boar Blood Lines: This represent the boar lines used and number of boar piglets born. ● Jack: 54 boars used, with a boar count of 226. ● Alistair: 46 boars used, with a boar count of 218. ● Clarence: 23 boars used, with a boar count of 95. ● Alexander: 20 boars used, with a boar count of 100 Sow Blood Lines: This represent the sow lines used and number of gilts born. ● Cynthia: 21 sows bred, with a gilt count of 84. ● Alison: 17 sows bred, with a gilt count of 79. ● Clare: 16 sows bred, with a gilt count of 70. ● Clarissa: 16 sows bred, with a gilt count of 62. ● Gloria: 15 sows bred, with a gilt count of 58. ● Sybil: 11 sows bred, with a gilt count of 50. ● Lady: 10 sows bred, with a gilt count of 36. ● Gertrude: 9 sows bred, with a gilt count of 34. ● Iris: 9 sows bred, with a gilt count of 36. ● Dandy: 7 sows bred, with a gilt count of 26. ● Elsie: 5 sows bred, with a gilt count of 17. ● Duchess: 4 sows bred, with a gilt count of 17. ● Mary: 3 sows bred, with a gilt count of 10.

OSBPG Farrowing Update (continued) .

Regional Breakdown: A view of farrowing in the GB and Ireland ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

The region with the highest litter count is the South West, with 46 instances, accounting for 38.66% of the total litter.

The Central region follows with 25 instances, representing 21.01% of the total litter.

The North has 22 instances, making up 18.49% of the total litter.

Wales reports 17 instances, comprising 14.29% of the total litter.

Both Scotland and the South have 12 instances each, contributing 10.08% to the total litter each.

Ireland accounts for 6 instances, or 5.04% of the total litter.

Anglia has the lowest litter count, with 3 instances, making up 2.52% of the total litter.

In Summary The South West region had the highest litter count at 46, comprising 38.66% of the total litter, followed

by Central and North regions. The female bloodline statistics, the bloodline "Cynthia" stood out with 21 sows bred and a gilt count of 84, while "Alison" closely followed with 17 sows bred and 79 gilts. Lastly, the boar usage within bloodlines. "Jack" and "Alistair" were the leading bloodlines in terms of boar usage, with "Jack" employing 54 boars and "Alistair" using 46. These analyses offer valuable information for regional litter management, bloodline breeding strategies, and boar resource allocation in respective contexts.

Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Foundation Charity - Official App The FREE application from the Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Foundation Charity #1190469 (England & Wales) SC052662 (Scotland) .

Our app gives you access to all our key info and tools whilst you're on the move. Tools such as: - Pig Weight Tool - Farrowing Date Tool - Standstill Calculator - Feed Calculator - Abattoir Checklist Up - Access to our Breeders Map ava date n o il - GSA Program new able w w - and loads more ith to hel ols to py ou

Valuing OSB Pork - doing what we do best

MEATing our OSB Pork Producers Sebastian & Linda Hricko - Ash Paddocks

We were surprised when Kim asked us to do an article about OSB pork. This made me sit down and actually think about how far we have come. It doesn’t happen often when you can think about these things, so I embraced this opportunity to reflect.

Sebastian and I started our pig journey somewhere around 4 years ago with 3 pigs – Caroline, Barbara and Sausage (the meat pig that is still with us today). All 3 OSB were from the Cynthia bloodline. We did try a couple of other breeds but soon realised our passion is with OSB’s as they are the kindest, sweetest, and best temperament pigs of them all. Also after tasting OSB pork, we couldn’t think of anything better so we stuck with the OSB’s and we have never looked back.

Our now herd consists of 6 female bloodlines (8 breeding pigs) and one male line – our boar Eugene all of which you can see us listed on the OSBPG breeders/producers map www.osbpg.org. But back to OSB pork!

Valuing OSB Pork - doing what we do best In the beginning, we started with a few orders and slowly grew and grew, the production of OSB pork has not detracted from our breeding as our focus is on quality stock as well as meat production. Focusing on pedigree breeding is important as well producing quality rare breed, outdoor reared and bred pork and this is proven time and time again because as soon as our pork is available it quickly flies out the door.

Often, we are sold out before we receive our meat back from the butcher as we provide a pre-ordering system.

We sell directly to customers from our local abattoir, which unfortunately is thinking to close and is putting our future under the big question, as we pride ourselves on small scale production with stress free meat processing at an abattoir that is 10 minutes down the road who’s staff exercise a friendly and caring attitude to livestock. But as scary as the change might be we all must embrace it and we will need to look for a new way to process our pork from next year.

Our most rapidly growing customer base is comprised of Latvian individuals.

Being of Latvian descent myself, I've been actively engaging with our customers, responding to their requests for locally sourced products, and this has led to an exponential increase in our customer numbers. Word of mouth has played a significant role in this growth.

We now receive visitors who travel over two hours to collect their pork orders from us. Latvian customers, in particular, have a strong appreciation for pork, as it is the most commonly consumed meat in Eastern Europe. What's remarkable is that many people are unafraid to process their own pork.

Our orders have evolved from a couple of joints to customers often requesting half or even a whole pig. The most sought-after cut is the uncut half pig. We've received an incredible response, and customers often compliment us on the exceptional quality of our pork, which evokes the flavours they remember from their upbringing – a genuine taste of home grown pork. Hearing this feedback is truly satisfying and motivates us to continue our efforts.

We have ambitious plans to expand both our meat production and breeding aspects of the business, while remaining steadfast in our commitment to the same values and level of care for our animals. Each and every one of our pigs holds a special place in our hearts, and we believe that this love and appreciation for them must shine through in the taste and quality of the pork. It is our belief that our dedication to quality will help us grow and meet the increasing demand for our OSB pork produce.

We are enjoying the life we have made for ourselves here at Ash Paddocks which has been made even more perfect by our own little creation, Abigail who was born in May, we also had a farrowing the same day back at the farm!

We now look forward to 2024, we would like to say thank you to the OSBPG Charity for the invaluable support and guidance they have provided, which has made a significant difference in our journey.

Education: OSBPG Pig Keeping Courses The Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Foundation Charity is committed to preserving and promoting the heritage breed of pigs, known as the Oxford Sandy and Black pig. One of the ways in which the charity achieves this goal is through their Pig courses, which are designed to educate people about these unique pigs and their role in British farming.

The Pig courses offered by the Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Foundation Charity are suitable for a range of audiences, from those who are simply interested in learning more about these pigs, to people who are considering keeping them as a rare breed. The courses are suitable for smallholders, hobbyists, and anyone who is interested in sustainable agriculture.

The courses are available both online and on-farm, with options starting from just £65 per person. The online courses are instructor-led, meaning that participants can learn from experts in the field of pig farming. The courses cover a range of topics, including pig husbandry, breeding, feeding, pig regulations and welfare. Participants can also ask questions and engage in discussions with the instructor and other learners.

For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, the on-farm Pig courses offer bespoke training tailored to the needs of the individual or group. Participants can learn about pig handling, housing, and management, as well as practical skills such as farrowing, castration, and identification.

Education is one of the key goals of the Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Foundation Charity, and their Pig courses are a great way to learn about these unique pigs and their place in British farming. By taking part in these courses, participants can gain a deeper understanding of sustainable agriculture and the importance of preserving rare breeds.

Courses commencing November and February.

For more information or to register your interest, email hello@oxfordsandyblackpiggroup.org

OSBPG PIG HAULIERS FOR UK Qualified competent attendants Mike and Jayne Carter, long time supporters of the OSBPG Charity, are happy to lend a hand for those seeking transportation services for the movement of pigs.

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Mike and Jayne have a 750kg trailer and are both qualified competent attendants and have breakdown cover for both trailer and vehicle which includes recovering of trailers including livestock.

In addition, Mike is also a HGV driver (retired from the Army and use to driving heavy vehicles) and travels extensively up and down the country.

The logistics would be as follows: ●

movement starts from Mike and Jayne (Wigan) to point of collection to point of delivery and return back to Wigan.

Trailer details is as follows: ●

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Small trailer max 750kg = 1 large pig male/female, or two 6 month old pigs, or 6/8 weaners.

This trailer can be partitioned into 2 sections to carry one of either sex of medium size pig and weaners.

Small trailer cost would be 80p per mile + VAT billed to purchaser. And if you qualify for the GSA you may also use it in connection with the movement.

Requirements ● ●

It would be advantageous to have an idea of weight of each animal being transported in the event of multiple pigs being moved..

Loading and unloading would be the responsibility of the vendor/purchaser. In addition to the above we have copies of Mike and Jayne hauliers licence and their driver/attendants certificates for movement of livestock Category 1 up to 8 hrs.

If you would like to find out more or book Mike and Jayne, please visit our website here

SEASONAL INFERTILITY

Seasonal Infertility Gilts and sows are susceptible to seasonal infertility during late Summer and early Autumn it is due to the environment, mismanagement and malnutrition over the summer months and leading into the beginning of Autumn. These situations can and will delay puberty, post weaning anoestrus (sexual inactivity), infertility and irregular hogging (seasons).

Causes Seasonal infertility occurs mainly in summer and results from a combination of the effects of day length and high temperature. The ideal day length should be a steady 12-16 hours and this should be maintained year round.

Seasonal infertility is most serious where sows are housed with access to natural light (e.g. outdoors) and where light exposure cannot be controlled.

Effects are most obvious in the female, but high temperature may also have an effect on semen quality and libido in the boar, which we discussed in a post under the heading “So what do we know about boars”. In addition, there may be reduced conception during the summer, caused partly by the seasonal effect on the sow and partly as a result of reduced semen quality and libido in the boar. A rise in infertility resulting from leptospiral infection may be present in some farms in the early autumn.

Clinical signs Sows become anoestrus (sexual inactive) for a period of 19 weeks (range 11-30) in late summer and early autumn, but may cycle throughout this period without demonstrating oestrus behaviour. When service occurs, animals may return at 3 weeks or irregularly thereafter.

Abortions may also be more common at this time. The combination of all these factors may reduce fertility during the late summer and early autumn. Breeding stock affected by the heat may remain lethargic during the day, to become active again in the cooler part of the day ie: late afternoon early evening.

Fertility may be reduced by around 20-25%.

Seasonal Infertility

Diagnosis is based on the failure of identified non-pregnant sows to show oestrus at 21 day intervals or within 21-30 days of weaning during the late summer and early autumn. Daily testing using boar exposure can be used to confirm the presence of anoestrus, the vulva should be inspected daily for signs of redness and swelling and sow and gilts can be tested by back pressure. Signs of mounting should be recorded.

Good records are important in identifying summer infertility. Anoestrus can be investigated in an individual by confirming that the animal is not pregnant, examining the ovaries and uterus by ultrasound for evidence of other causes of anoestrus such as inactive ovaries, cysts, retained corpora lutea (a small, transient endocrine gland formed following ovulation) or uterine pus. Blood tests can confirm whether or not cycling is occurring. Boars should be checked for health and semen quality.

Treatment and prevention Boar Stimulation and Shading: Boar stimulation and providing shading in the mating area can help counter the impact of high temperatures. Cooling the boar and sow can be achieved using wallows or sprays. Mating in the morning when temperatures are at their lowest can also be beneficial.

Control of Light Exposure: Regulating the amount of light exposure by introducing a fixed daylight length of 12-16 hours can help reduce the effects in variation, particularly in housed pigs in the Autumn and Winter months.

Draft Prevention: To protect pigs not kept indoors during the winter months, the use of plastic sheeting is recommended. Clear plastic sheeting can be effective, it allows natural light into the ark while shielding from drafts.

Provision of Additional Roughage: Incorporating additional roughage into the pigs' diet can be beneficial. Some studies suggest that this may create a satiety effect, potentially improving reproductive outcomes.

Maintaining Farrowing Numbers: When faced with adverse effects on boar semen quality, one approach is to increase the number of mating services over a specific period. This can help maintain farrowing numbers and overall reproductive success.

By implementing these strategies, you can better manage the impact of temperature and environmental factors within your breeding program and ensure the well-being of your pigs.

OSBPG Competition Time

Which Bloodline cannot be found in this word search?

DUCHESS LADY CYNTHIA DANDY CLARENCE ELSIE IRIS CLARISSA GERTRUDE GLORIA JACK ALEXANDER CLARE ALISTAIR ALISON SYBIL MARY

Win an OSBPG Beanie!

Just tell us which bloodline cannot be found in the word search for a chance to win. Email you answer to hello@oxfordsandyblackpiggroup.org and use the subject “Sandy Pig Competition” Good Luck!

OSBPG PORK LABELS Helping our Independent Producers, the OSBPG charity provides valuable support The OSBPG Foundation Charity is always thinking of ways to help our independent pork producers.

Our pork is first and foremost as it is representative of our breed, its flavour, its texture, its colour and its versatility.

The OSBPG Charity recognise the hard work and dedication from our independent producers, breeders and keepers of the Oxford Sandy and Black pig. Furthermore, we see the value in what you do, and as such Kathryn Green-Smith has designed the OSBPG Charity Pork labels. The labels are free and are in recognition of the value that you show in producing OSB Rare Breed pork.

Just like Mr. & Mrs. Edmond of Poppyfields Fine Produce, you can also own your free 150 OSBPork Labels here .

Farming through the eyes of a child

by ANALISE COOPER Hello readers of the Sandy Pig magazine, my name is Analise Cooper from South Paddocks in Dorset. I thought I would give a bit of an understanding on what it’s like farming as a child.

My parents surprised me and my siblings in April 2020 when they bought a small holding, which was very exciting for us all as we have always dreamed of having a smallholding and adding animals.

While we were deciding on pigs we started the farm with alpacas which were than followed by Boer goats.

Farming through the eyes of a child after visiting different breeds at other local farms we fell in love with the Oxford Sandy and Black breed.

We found a local breeder and we picked two Cynthia Gilts who we named Peggy and Petal. My brothers and I were given the challenge to set their pens up. We had a great time when testing the electric fencing on our Dad. We are very lucky that we have the smallholding and all the animals, it’s hard work all year round, for example in the summer months we have the responsibility of making sure our pigs have plenty of water and their wallow are full. It is even harder in the winter months making sure their arks don’t fill up with water and even topping up their arks with straw just for that extra bit of warmth for them. It is also a lot of late nights and early mornings caring to all the animals, especially at birthing times. It’s sad when we lose a piglet, or when one is born dead but it is normally a sign that the mother pig can't feed or cope with them all so it is better to have a smaller amount of healthy piglets than lots of weak ones.

My favourite thing about pigs is how adventurous they are and taking them into the barn when they are due to farrow or when putting them in a fresh new paddock and seeing them run around and their ears flopping in the wind.

I have another interest which goes hand in hand with all the hard work that is involved on the farm.

I love helping at farmers markets and shows with my mum and dad, it is an early morning start and late finish and I get to talk to the customers about our pigs and produce. It is so nice to hear people telling us how tasty our pork is and even nicer when they come back for another purchase. They ask me what my favourite flavour sausages are and if I have helped mum make the sausage rolls.

My friends love coming round and seeing the piglets, alpacas and goats and going out on our quad bike. It’s a lot of hard work and we don’t get much time off, but I love my life and love where we live and i wouldn’t have it any other way. I wouldn’t like to live in a town without fields or animals.

Thank you for reading Analise Cooper South Paddocks

Genetic Spread Allowance As of October 2023, the charity has supported the move of 47 pigs all across the UK, adding key bloodlines to regions without or with low levels. Our supporters have clocked up a whopping 15,070 miles, this is the same as the circumference of the Earth when measured around the equator The pigs themselves have travelled 7,535 miles, this is almost the same as the width of the Atlantic Ocean when measured from the eastern coast of North America to the western coast of Europe and Africa Since the last update we have supported the moves of a Jack boar from Gloucester to Scotland, a Lady gilt from Colwyn Bay to Scotland a Sybil gilt to Scotland from East Anglia and finally a Gloria sow from South Kent to Warwickshire Our program has donated £4,900 to our members, supporting them with these key moves to diversify and conserve our dynamic Oxford Sandy and Black.

Genetic Spread Allowance What is the GSA Program?

(Continued)

The GSA is a financial allowance to be given to the Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Group charity supporters to encourage the geographical spread and genetic selection of the Oxford Sandy and Black Pig bloodlines within the UK. ● ● ● ●

The GSA encourages the charity’s supporters to travel for genetic diversity.

Encourages a good genetic selection Encourages new breeders and a network of communication Creating positive and direct communication with the Trustees and/or Regional Mentors.

What is Required? ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

An Oxford Sandy and Black Pig breeder is willing to travel either (in one direction); over three hours or 150 miles Introduce a rare line or a sow/boar bloodline where 5 or less than a given bloodline exists in that county/region Both parties(Buyer and Seller) have to be active members or Friends of the OSBPG Foundation Charity Purchased pigs must adhere to breed standard Provide pedigree details of all currently owned registered stock Provide pedigree details of all proposed registered stock Provide photos and/or video (including identification i.e tag) of the proposed stock

How much is the Genetic Spread allowance?

The allowance of GBP175.00 will be awarded after the successful transition and movements of the Oxford Sandy and Black Pig is confirmed and verified with the charity and purchaser.

Why are we doing this?

The achievements will be tenfold as we hope to see a steady increase in our bloodlines diversity and to populate designated regions that may not otherwise have a particular bloodline.

The objective of this project is to encourage a good genetic selection. To encourage new breeders and to encourage a network of communication for the supporters of our charity. To also encourage communication, which is paramount, with our supporters and trustees. Creating positive and direct communication with the Trustees and/or Regional Mentors.

The Charity’s ethos and focus is to support, inspire, educate and enthuse individuals about our breed and give guidance to our supporters.

How do I apply?

To apply you need to submit an online application form, you can do this here. Please note that application does not guarantee qualification for the award, applications are reviewed on an individual basis and reviewed by the charities’ trustees.

Vet Chat Louise Blenkhorn Louise Blenkhorn, BSc(Hons), BVM&S, MRCVS, is an independent pig veterinary consultant and a pig farmers daughter. Louise's private life is just as busy. A mother of two to Emma and Ava. Louise and her husband Neil, run a successful herd of Limousin beef cattle.

SERVING - ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION One of my most common consultancy visits is regarding poor reproductive performance. There are many things that influence this - one of which is quality of insemination (as well as timing but I can go into that another time!).

So what do I recommend ● ● ● ● ● ●

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Bring sow to the boar.

Bring sows in small groups to the boar (max 2 per inseminator). Once standing must be served within 20mins - uterus contracts then becomes quiescent.

Boar must be ‘chatty’ as pheromones in saliva are essential to stimulate oxytocin in the sow to transport sperm to site of fertilisation.

If boar is not chatty/ I see some of you have no boar - use boar pheromone spray.

Ensure hygiene Stimulate the sow during insemination - back pressure (saddles or sit on her)/ flank or udder rubbing - again stimulates oxytocin release.

Leave catheter in for 20 mins after semen bag empty - use the catheter plug and leave to ‘rest’ in front of the boar - this prevents semen backflow.

Ingredients (6-8 portions) ●

500g OSB sausage meat

●

200g date porridge

●

1 medium onion

●

8 slices OSB streaky bacon

OSB Pork Stuffing Balls

By Sara Buttle

Method 1.

Put the sausage meat, porridge and chopped onion in a bowl - mix well - get your hands in and massage it to make sure it is well blended!

2.

Form into 6-8 meatballs and wrap with a piece of streaky bacon. Or - Pack into individual portions in ramekins. Or - Use to line a shallow dish

3.

Pack in the sausage meat mix and use the bacon to create a lattice on top.

4.

Bake in the oven at 180°C for 30-35 minutes

Tip: Goes well with roast OSB pork.

This recipe and more can be found in our cookbook “Pork-licious” which can be purchased from our online shop here

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