Cherkasy was chosen because the region is the leading producer of broiler meat in Ukraine, and provides the location for one of Europe's largest broiler complexes – Myronivski belonging to Mironivskij Hleboprodukt.

Opening the event, James Truscott, Cobb Germany director, said that in 10 years the Cobb 500 had become the market leader in Ukraine.

He said: "The breed has made great progress and in the future we at Cobb will continue striving to make our customers even more successful and efficient."

Vasyl Babych, Cobb Germany market manager, added: "In reality, you are attracting attention to Cobb by your success with the breed."

Scientific but easy-to-understand presentations were made by Winfridus Bakker (Cobb-Vantress), Ron Meijerhof (Cobb Germany), Matthew Wilson (Cobb Europe) and Matthias Todte (Cobb Germany and MMT Vet's).

Maxim Pisarev, Mironivskij Hleboprodukt director of production, commented: "We are grateful to Cobb Germany - it not only supplies excellent service but the product we need, the Cobb 500."

Many young people were among the delegates.

Mr Truscott said: "Their keen interest shows why Ukraine is becoming a leader in supplying quality chicken meat. The country has a great future ahead of it with skilled specialists running the large production facilities."

Delegates at the Cobb Germany seminar in Ukraine