Times are tough in almost every branch of farming business and this is acknowledged by the provision of free entry for all visitors to the Livestock Event 2016 at the NEC in Birmingham on 6 and 7 July, with opening hours of 8am to 7pm on Wednesday 6 July.

Organised by the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF), it is being promoted as an opportunity to share information, ideas and practical advice to help farm businesses survive the next 18 months. Alongside the tools for survival, the programme of seminars includes the subject of making a dignified exit from dairying.

In the UK, the number of dairy farmers has fallen by 63% in the past 20 years, with the past 10 years drop being 37%. The reduction in NI has been 49% in the past 20 years and 32% in the past 10 years.

According to RABDF chief executive Nick Everington, there will be several new technical features.

He expects over 100 new products to be available, including 30 to be launched at the event. With over 350 trade stands, the event indicates the number of businesses trying to prosper off the back of livestock farming.

Although just a short walk from the terminal at Birmingham airport, the NEC venue provides the facilities for working demonstrations of mixer wagons, loaders, bedders and straw choppers. There will also be demos on calf rearing, foot trimming and healthy feet, as well as a hands-on practical area designed to help livestock farmers learn more about grass and forage options.

Groups or individuals going to the event are being urged to use the services of Travel Solutions of Belfast (phone 02890 455030).