Royal pig and beef herds increase to support demand at Windsor farm Shop
The Royal pig and beef enterprises have had to be expanded, Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE) members were told during a behind-the-scenes tour of the Windsor Estate. The expansion was in direct response to increased demand for locally-sourced produce.
RASE Trustee Mark Spencer said: "Our members felt extremely privileged to look round what is a very well run and tidy estate. The farm shop is certainly impressive and a yardstick for us all to measure against." RASE members were extremely impressed with the high standards of how the historic estate was run whilst also being open to the public.
Since 1838, The Royal Agricultural Society of England has played a leading role in the development of British Agriculture and the day demonstrated to guests a perfect example of farming and retailing of high quality locally produced British Food.
The Windsor farm shop endeavours to source its butchery range from the Estate. Produce that cannot be sourced on the Estate is supplied from specially selected farms within a 50 mile radius. The Crown label demonstrates the highest level of welfare standards, an example of this is the pig enterprise which does not use farrowing crates for welfare reasons, an aspect that visitors to the shop recognise and appreciate.
RASE members were impressed by the Jersey herd. The pedigree herd is right at the top of national statistics in terms of genetics, production and quality. The Queen however is selling her Ayrshire herd, Mark Spencer commented, "It is symptomatic of the industry when the Monarch herself is no longer able to justify subsidising dairy farming."
Mark Spencer stated: "There was excellent team spirit amongst the estate managers and the staff. HRH The Countess of Wessex, President of the Royal Agricultural Society of England, is a strong supporter of British agriculture and is well informed about current farming issues. She is extremely supportive of young people and young entrepreneurs involved in farming."
