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The “Laxfield” herd was established in 1973 by David Smith in the Suffolk village of Laxfield.
The herd is now managed in three sections with about 150 head managed in Carmarthenshire by Charles Smith and about 200 head managed in Suffolk by Owen Smith.
Health Status
The herd in Carmarthenshire has achieved BVD and Johnes Accredited Status under the SAC Premium Health Scheme.
The herd in Suffolk is vaccinated for Blue Tongue, BVD and Lepto.
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Herd Management
The main calving period for both herds is from February to April and the aim is to achieve the maximum production from grass.
Both herds are kept solely on Barley Straw, Hay and Silage with only a few show cattle and breeding bulls receiving a restricted level of concentrates.
Carmarthenshire
The Carmarthenshire herd is managed in a less favoured area with annual rainfall between 75 - 80 inches. The steep land rises to over 800 feet and the area has a very short growing season from May to October due to the altitude and high level of frosts. Cattle have to be housed from late October until May.
Suffolk
The Suffolk herd is run on land almost entirely below Sea Level on the North Sea Coast. The area is totally exposed to bitter East winds and is at risk of flooding during periods of high tide. Rainfall is only about one quarter of the Carmarthenshire level and cattle are only housed from late November until April. Heifers are usually outwintered.
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