A NEW series of courses is about to begin for people who fancy running a smallholding or anyone who wants to gain more experience The first is an introduction to sheep keeping. It will take place at Uncllys Farm, Bewdley, on February 25.

The course is being organised by Mark Cleaver, a local farm manager who has extensive experience in managing livestock and nature conservation. He said: “This course is ideal for anyone who would like to find out more about looking after and checking livestock.

“More courses that cover cattle and pigs will be held later in the year. Each course includes information on the legal and moral duties of livestock keepers, codes of practice, key welfare issues and practical ways to monitor animal health.”

The courses are being organised by Wyre Community Land Trust. It is based at a working farm and it supports land owners, smallholders and farmers through training, practical help and the loan of tools and equipment. It provides a wide range of accredited courses available for both land owners and volunteers which are subsidised, mainly through the Heritage Lottery Fund.

For more details, contact Emma Bogaard on 01299 488083 or e-mail emma@wyreclt.org.uk.