The sheep milk industry is setting its sights on the dairy industry as it looks to pick up more farmer suppliers.

Milking sheep is much easier and simpler than cows, but it takes much more dedication and attention, says John Ryrie, sheep dairy manager at Spring Sheep Milk.

It's not the time yet for farmers to start getting into dairy sheep, but those interested need to keep a “watching brief” on the Government's new Primary Growth Partnership programme.