The aim is to help eliminate the bottleneck that is currently hampering pig sector expansion: a shortage finisher of accommodation.

The meeting will give bankers and farm advisers the necessary information to help them steer farmers seeking a new income stream towards contract-finishing pigs.

Unlike most other diversifications, contract-finishing of pigs integrates seamlessly with arable production - the farmer using redundant buildings, and supplying straw and labour, and his pig industry partner supplying the young pigs, feed, veterinary care and technical advice.

Speakers at the meeting, which will be at Stoneleigh on July 10, will include a banker, a pig industry integrator, a pig industry consultant, and a contract-finisher.

They will outline the following advantages to an arable farmer - perhaps with former livestock buildings - of entering a contract-finishing agreement:

• Increase in turnover.
• A broader business base through diversification.
• Regular year-round income.
• Valuable organic fertiliser to reduce fertiliser costs and improve soil condition and crop yields.