MORE dairy farmers than ever are considering processing their own milk, judging by a spate of inquiries received by the Milk Development Council.

In response to the interest in marketing added-value produce such as locally/regionally branded milk, dairy beverages, cheese, ice cream or yoghurt, the council is running a meeting at Worcester YFC, Shires Farm, Hawford, Worcester, on Thursday, January 26.

Liz Broadbent, the council's marketing director, said: "It's not our intention to actively encourage on-farm processing, it is simply our job to assist those who are trying to decide whether it is for them and how best to proceed if they have made the decision to go down this route."

Anyone interested in attending the meeting or would like more information on the MDC can contact Deborah House on 01285 646542 or email deborah.house@mdc.org.uk.