Bognor community group which bred rare pigs closes after 17 years

Sussex Saddlebacks, set up in 2007, was a community group which kept a small herd of British Saddleback pigs. Their aim was to breed for meat and weaners, as well as to identify pedigree standard piglets that could go on for breeding and increase the numbers of the endangered breed.

The British Saddleback is a large, black and white pig which is listed on the watchlist of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust as at risk, the second-highest level of concern.

The group has bred more than 400 piglets, saved a rare boar bloodline from extinction, sent pigs to herds all over the country and achieved prizes at many shows.

After many years based at the Aldingbourne Country Centre near Fontwell, the group moved their herd last year to Crimsham Farm, Lagness, near Bognor.

The group's pigs won prizes at several shows (Image: Sussex Saddlebacks)A spokeswoman for the group said: “Unfortunately, due to their own successful farm, it no longer makes sense to breed from our sows. Matching this with a dwindling (and ageing) membership and the increasing costs associated with pig-keeping, now seemed a natural time to wind the group up.

“We would like to thank so many people who have helped us along the way, but the biggest thank you goes to all the members of Sussex Saddlebacks, past and present, who have given their time and love into making keeping pigs fun.”