A NORTH Yorkshire farm is hosting a new sheep lameness trial run by SAC Consulting.

The Bainbridge Brothers of Marrick Abbey Farm, Marrick Abbey, near Richmond, will host a free sheep health and welfare meeting on August 6.

The issue of antibiotics versus trimming as a means of controlling lameness is often debated.

The Bainbridge brothers have agreed to allow any lame ewes in their flock to undergo a six week trial, in which half will be treated with antibiotics and have their feet trimmed, while the remainder will receive only antibiotics.

James Hadwin, SAC Consulting agricultural consultant, said: “There has been a good deal of research into treating lameness and the advice is not to trim. Recovery is quicker and better if ewes are treated with injectable antibiotics only.

“We expect the trial at Marrick Farm to demonstrate this and we hope local farmers will be interested in the results.”

The free meeting is on Wednesday, August 6, from 4pm to 8pm. As well as a practical session on lameness, flock biosecurity, returning wintering stock and flock fertility will be discussed.

James Hadwin will provide an overview of the focus farm concept and Marrick Abbey Farm, while the Bainbridge’s vet, Richard Phillips of Swale Veterinary Practice, will lead the lameness session.

Marrick Abbey Farm is one of 19 Eblex Focus Farms involved in a 12-month campaign addressing cattle and sheep health and welfare issues. The aim is to improve outputs and profitability.

Partner organisations are working with EBLEX to support their local Focus Farms.

Farmers wishing to attend should ring Eblex on 01904 771211 or email brpevents@ eblex.ahdb.org.uk