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Moves to boost pig production in Wales has been stepped up with the relaunch of a scheme aimed at young farmers .

Applications are now open for a pig finishing initiative managed by Wales YFC and Menter Moch Cymru (MMC), which first ran in 2017.

Six winning YFC members will be handed five weaners each and given advice on fattening and marketing them.

For the first time participants will have their own live pig class at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair .

Former participant Ffion Medi Rees, whose pig went on to win the Winter Fair’s carcass competition, has continued to keep pigs since being part of the initiative.

“I really enjoyed the whole experience,” she said.

Pigs can be kept in various management systems, either indoors or outdoors.

MMC manager Melanie Cargill said many farms have under-utilised buildings or land that could be easily converted for pigs with little capital investment.

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And as Welsh consumers eat more pork than lamb and beef combined , it could be a useful alternative enterprise for many, she added.

“It’s a great introduction for any young farmer thinking of entering the pig sector,” she said.

“Not only are they provided with weaners to start them off, they are also given training and support throughout the whole process.”

The six winners will be announced at the Royal Welsh Show .