A CIDER maker and pig farmer from Burley has launched a campaign to secure EU status for pannage pork.

Barry Topp says pannage pork deserves recognition under the same European law that protects Cornish pasties, Cumberland sausages, Melton Mowbray pork pies and Jersey Royal potatoes.

The campaign has already garnered support from local producers and chefs as well as the verderers, the ancient body that traditionally runs the forest.

Mr Topp, who has turned out 19 Gloucester Old Spot and Wessex Saddleback pigs onto the forest this autumn, is currently in the process of filling out the necessary application paperwork to send to the EU for consideration.

The 68-year-old said: "We have a cider stall in Borough Market in London which is right opposite a Spanish stand, and they're always promoting their Iberico pork which comes from Iberian pigs that feed on acorns.

"The food scene in Britain is continually growing and there's a huge interest in premium local produce.

"PDO status would recognise this unique, wonderful product we have, and the knock-on effect would be beneficial to so many people in the New Forest.

"Now we just have to convince Brussels."

Such is the demand for premium products among foodies that pannage pork can sell for £3.50 a kilogram, compared to £2 a kilo.

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