FARMWAY, the farmers' co-operative based at Piercebridge, has expanded its animal health business.

As part of its strategic growth plan, the company recently acquired Hall-Shaw Farm Supplies and has embarked on a training programme to ensure all its key staff are fully qualified to deal in animal medicines.

The staff are now AMTRA trained. AMTRA is an independent regulatory body which ensures that the marketing and distribution of animal medicines in the UK is undertaken in a responsible manner by AMTRA-qualified people.

Kevin Shaw, with 25 years' industry experience, has joined the Farmway management team, with specific responsibility to oversee all the animal health business.

Dennis Rudkin, Farmway retail business manager, said it was a significant investment by Farmway in the animal health sector. "With Kevin's experience and our knowledgeable staff we are able to give customers impartial advice and, with the additional buying power available to the company, all products can be offered at competitive prices," he said.

Tony Simpson, commercial manager, said: "Farmway now has people and products to be able to offer a comprehensive range of products to the specialist animal rearer, as well as hobby farmers and pet owners.

"We can give independent advice and supply all cattle and sheep PML products as well as dog and cat wormers, flea control powders and a full range of equine health products."

The Piercebridge store is undergoing a major refurbishment which will allow it to extend its opening hours to include Saturdays until 5pm and all day Sunday.