David Black pig award for NPA’s Ian Campbell

Former NPA regional manager Ian Campbell scooped one of the most prestigious pig industry awards at the House of Lords today (Wednesday).

Dedication and hard work led judges to make Mr Campbell recipient of the David Black Award.

The award was handed over by new DEFRA minister for farming and the environment, Jane Kennedy after a speech by former minister Lord Rooker.

Mr Campbell, who began his career in the animal feed sector, gained national recognition in his involvement with the British Pig Industry Support Group and subsequent involvement with the NPA.

Lord Rooker said, “Ian has worked tirelessly for individuals and family farm businesses, particularly during animal disease outbreaks.

“He has made a significant contribution to the pig sector above all through his ability to communicate not only with producers, but also with partners in the supply chain, welfare groups, government officials and international organisations.”

Mr Campbell, on receiving his award, said, “I am honoured my peers in the pig industry think I am worthy of this accolade. I have sat at previous breakfasts and thought how much the recipient deserved it. There seems something slightly wrong in being honoured for time spent working in an industry that had given him so much pleasure,” he said.

Mr Campbell did offer some words of warning though. “The pig industry more than any other sector seeks stability in DEFRA staff so that we are not starting from scratch again at the next notifiable disease outbreak.!”

Minister Jane Kennedy commenting on the pig industry said “all those in the supply chain have a moral responsibility to allow transparency. UK pig producers are some of the finest in the world continuing to lead the way in innovation.”