A DARK cloud has been cast over the farming industry this year – bird flu, flooding, foot and mouth and now blue tongue. It s been tough, to say the least, for farmers and animals alike. But if there is one thing it highlights, it s the need for all of us

A DARK cloud has been cast over the farming industry this year - bird flu, flooding, foot and mouth and now blue tongue.

It's been tough, to say the least, for farmers and animals alike.

But if there is one thing it highlights, it's the need for all of us to find out more about the lives of animals that produce our food. A survey by Freedom Food has revealed that 91 per cent of people in the East of England didn't think pigs were intelligent - a shocking result when some tests show they are as smart as dogs.

If we all make an effort to find out more about farm animals and show we care by buying higher welfare products - like Freedom Food - more animals will be reared to higher welfare standards and more farmers will be rewarded for their efforts.

So please think animal welfare and visit www.freedomfood.co.uk to find out more about how you can make a difference.

SUZIE GRAHAM

East Regional Manager

RSPCA