The Turkey Science and Production Conference takes place on 23 and 24 April at Shrigley Hall, Macclesfield. This year's conference, the third in the series organised by Dr James Bentley, enjoys a record attendance of 140 delegates from 20 countries.

Dr Bentley said, "The turkey industry has faced many challenges in recent years, with periods of over-production, and the impact of avian influenza. This has resulted in a decline in production in some of the traditional markets and the consolidation of the industry into fewer organisations.

"Despite these developments, in other markets, growth is occurring in both consumption and production, and new entrants are investing in the industry.

"In difficult economic times, all producers are trying to balance the diverse demands of consumers for cost-savings, choice, provenance and safety.

"First of all, the application of the latest knowledge, new technology, market awareness and flexibility have never been more relevant than they are today to ensure business survival," Dr Bentley added.

In his evening address, Dr Bentley highlighted the record attendance for this year's event. He gave special mention to two delegates: the furthest travelled was Marcus Reginatto, representing Brazilian poultry giant, Sadia; and Dr Joshua Rimsky of Ambar Feed Mills in Israel, who holds the record for the longest attendance record. He has been present at the great majority of the current series of conferences and its predecessor, 'Technical Turkeys' Conferences, which were held for 29 successive years, organised by Shirley Murdoch.

Over the two-day conference, there are to be 18 presentations, covering a wide range production topics including nutrition and health, as well as processing and business management.