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RISING feed costs have squeezed what small margin there is to be gained from finishing cattle. Labour is in short supply and beef prices stubbornly refuse to rise, says Jonathan Moorhouse, chairman of the South West Hereford Association, whose cattle were South West Herd of the Year 2002.

"There has never been a better time to think about returning to the Hereford. Herefords are the breed best suited to UK conditions. The are easy fleshing and superb converters of grass and conserved forage. They are just as good pure bred or crossed, and in today's climate where labour is in short supply they are renowned for being docile and easily managed. "On top of all this, the eating quality of Hereford beef is hard to beat. For all these reasons it is pleasing to report that an increasing number of commercial suckler herds are choosing Hereford bulls as terminal sires.

"South West farming is ideal for Herefords and there are a good number of quality herds throughout the region. Some of these herds have not only achieved recognition locally but have proved themselves to be equal to the best nationally.

"If you are looking to buy bulls or considering starting a pedigree herd, please contact the secretary of the association or myself for more information."

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