Our thanks to the Red Lion Inn in Shobrooke for providing a meeting space.

The meeting was attended by members taking up pig shares (halves or quarters) in 2016 and the two smallholders hosting the pigs this year.

Shareholders have signed up for monthly payments starting in April and six piglets have been ordered from a breeder of traditional Oxford Sandy and Black pigs in North Devon. They will be arriving in early June. Shareholders will be able to visit the weaners (although no dogs or muddy boots allowed) by arrangement with the smallholders Ann and Diana who are based near Shobrooke village. Members of the Pig Club are keen to encourage further smallholders to come forward and find out what is involved if they want to have weaners in 2017.

Members were also glad to hear that the pork processing in October will be arranged with butchery provided by the local Cox's butchers in High Street, Crediton.

Further meetings are planned in the autumn on sausage-making and smoking and curing. Our next meeting is 7 pm, Monday 27 June 2016, place to be advised.

Do get in touch if you would like to join the Pig Club or be contacted for details of pig shares for 2017.