A special livestock smallholders’ event is being organised by Dorset County Council’s trading standards service.

It is being held at Lymburghs Farm in Marnhull and smallholders will get a chance to network and catch up with changes in regulations.

Neil Martin, from trading standards, said: “We want to help smallholders understand how animal regulations are relevant to them.

“Whether they own one pig or a herd of 800 breeding sows, the same rules apply. However where farmers would be aware of the legislation as it’s part of their main business, many smallholders may not be.

“In addition to the training on legislation, expert vets from Friars Moor will be running training sessions on animal husbandry and Dorset Police on rural crime prevention. Representatives from Dorset County Farms, Kingston Maurward agricultural college, Animal Plant Health Agency and other organisations involved in rural businesses will also be in attendance to give help and advice to smallholders.”

The event, which is supported by Dorset County Council, Friars Moor Livestock Health and Mole Country Stores, takes place on Wednesday, September 13 between 4pm until 8pm.

Tickets are available at Mole Country Stores and costs £10, which covers refreshments.

For more information call the Animal Health Trading Standards team on 01305 224475.