A STATE-of-the-art livestock transporter, which will carry lambs across the country, has been unveiled by its South Lakeland-based manufacturer, reports Ruth Lythe.

The unique high-tech transporter, designed and built by Houghton Parkhouse of Milnthorpe, was handed over to Scottish hauliers RW Stewart.

The haulage company transport lambs on behalf of lamb abattoir and processor Welsh Country Foods, which supplies retailer Asda.

The vehicle, which is able to carry 600 lambs at a time, is the first of a fleet of six to be built by Houghton Parkhouse, commissioned by Welsh Country Foods, and will take lambs both from individual farms and collection centres to abattoirs.

The Milnthorpe-based manufacturer's engineering team worked closely with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, and other research institutions, to ensure the welfare of livestock during transportation.

For full story see the February 9 edition of The Westmorland Gazette.