Volac Milk Replacers and Duchy College have carried out six successful calf trials at West Coombeshead Farm.

The collaboration between Volac Milk Replacers Ltd and Duchy College has resulted in significant advancements in milk formulations for pre-weaned calves.

John Reynolds, managing director of Volac Milk Replacers Ltd, said: "Duchy College has become a key calf trial site for our R&D, enabling the continued development and advancement of milk formulations for pre-weaned calves."

The trials, which took place between 2019 and 2024, involved up to 50 dairy heifer calves each year.

The calves were fed one of two milk formulations, with their body weight and health scores monitored from birth through to day 70.

Dr Jessica Cooke from Volac Milk Replacers Ltd said: "Calf performance on the farm is very good, and the data output is excellent, which is credit to the Duchy College research team who oversee the commercial sponsor trial work.

"The Duchy College team are great to work with and always very welcoming – so much so that we always enjoy hosting meetings at the site, which have allowed us to take advantage of the superb amenities and services available."

The partnership between Volac Milk Replacers Ltd and Duchy College also provides valuable learning opportunities for students.

Paul Ward, research manager at Duchy College, said: "Duchy College’s Rural Business School and farm teams are proud to partner Volac Milk Replacers Ltd and our senior research technician, Rachel Renfree, ensures that our further education students are engaged in trial data collection and our undergraduates in data analysis."

Volac Milk Replacers Ltd is a member of the Centre for Innovation in Livestock (CIEL), with Duchy College providing access to 12 world-class national research centres.