This one-day course aims to cover all the things you need to know before starting to keep a few pigs on your land.  It will not be looking at commercial pig-keeping. 

Topics to be discussed in the morning include:  why keep pigs?, means of enclosure, traditional free-range pig-keeping, breeds, feed, pig-care, styles or arcs and where to buy them, pests and diseases, butchery and bacon curing, legal requirements, ratio of pigs to land available, etc. 

In the afternoon we shall inspect Kevin's herd nearby, meet and touch pigs at various stages of their lives (Gloucester Old Spot and Essex Saddleback), see the massive boar in his pen and hold a squealing piglet if you really want to.  You can also have a go at singling out a pig from the herd and driving it into a trailer to be taken to market the next morning.   Kevin's bacon and hams will be available for sale (if he hasn't sold them all at the farmers' market the day before).

The tutor is Kevin Blundell.  Click on his name to see more about him.

Comments from previous participants:

I enjoyed my day at Assington mill.  The course was great well structured, informative,and just what I was looking for, coupled with the fantastic location. Your hospitality was more than I expected and being invited into your fantastic home was awe inspiring, for a old property 'saddo' like myself all my birthdays came at once, and lunch was superb, so very many thanks for sharing your home with me, look forward to seeing you again in the near future.  Kelvin

This was a fantastic day – everything from the organisation, the teaching style, the location, the catering … all wonderful.  I learnt a huge amount and had a great day out of London.  Great to also hear how Bob and Anne have built up Assington Mill – very inspiring.  The pace of the day was perfect – a good balance between fact and learning and fun and relaxing.  Incredibly informative – thank you so much.  Will definitely recommend courses her to friends.  Laura

Food and location absolutely lovely.  Well prepared a very useful and practical [course] and has made me keen to have pigs.

Very many thanks for a super day, well organised, very enlightening and with great people.  Your personal welcome and courtesy were exemplary.  Ian

Thank you so much for a great day – we learned so much, and you have confirmed for us that we’re aiming to do the right thing.  Can’t wait to get started.  Kitty

Excellent day, interesting and informative.  What a lovely location, fantastic hospitality.  Thank you.  Julia B.