The Berkshire pig is the oldest breed of pig in Britain, but its numbers are dwindling. According to the Rare Breeds Survival Trust there are just 359 breeding sows and 89 boars left in this country.
The breed originated in the Thames Valley in the late 18th century, and its meat is one of the most succulent. The Japanese are great connoisseurs of Berkshire pork and bacon, and there are many more herds of Berkshires in Japan than in the UK.
It would be a tragedy if this genetically diverse pig were to disappear, and all that we had left were the breeds beloved by supermarkets; lean with little natural fat and lacking in flavour.
Because pigs and apples, pork and cider go together so well, one of Britain's smallest and newest cider makers is starting a campaign to help save Britain's oldest and rarest breed.
From 1st March 2005, we will be donating 15p to the Berkshire Pig Breeders Club for every gallon of our Berkshire cider that is sold.
So if you want to be able to enjoy the most delicious roast pork, superb bacon, succulent pork sausages, and tasty gammon, then:
FROM
The Malt House, Great Shefford, Hungerford, Berkshire RG17 7ED
Tel: 01488 648441 E-mail:
enquiries@lambournvalleycider.co.uk
As a part of this campaign, we have had this china piggy bank painted to resemble a Berkshire pig,
and this will be on display for contributions wherever we have a stand in future. Children love it!
If you are not a cider drinker but would like to help this worthwhile cause,
please send a cheque or postal order to:
