The first Great British Calf Week takes place this week.

From February 2 - 9 there will be a series of online events, webinars and farm walks focussed on successful calf management.

Topics include practical on-farm approaches, such as colostrum management, to more strategic issues, such as genetics and selecting the right sire for your dairy-cross calves.

Labour, skills and enterprise management will also be featured.

The event offers farmers a unique opportunity to hear from recognised experts in the field, and to have their questions answered.

It's part of the GB Dairy Calf Strategy, a cross-industry campaign, spearheaded by AHDB and the NFU, and aims to ensure that all dairy-bred calves are reared with care and for a purpose – as part of either the dairy or beef supply chains.

“The Great British Calf Week will celebrate all the progress that has been made through the GB Dairy Calf strategy,” said Nic Parsons, head of dairy development at AHDB.

“Farmers will also be able to hear from a range of speakers talking about ways to maximise calf health and nutrition, for example, to make sure each animal reaches its full potential.

"Making targeted breeding decisions is another way that farmers can increase the value of their calves, ensuring each calf born is fit for its intended purpose.”

Chris Dodds, executive secretary of the Livestock Auctioneers Association (LAA) is supportive of the initiative.

He said: “It is important that every calf is presented for sale in good health and with as much supportive health information as is available, to ensure a strong market value is achieved.

"The LAA supports the Great British Calf Week to promote this information, as we continue to work with our members to further strengthen the benefits of the live auction system in offering calf producers a fair and true marketplace for their animals.”

To find out more about what’s on offer during the week and how to register for events, click here.