A GROUP of more than 150 female beef farmers are celebrating a decade of championing British beef.

Ladies in Beef, which was launched by the Princess Royal, will mark the occasion virtually, owing to the current coronavirus outbreak.

Great British Beef, which ran from April 23 to 30, took place across social media.

“The group was formed to help drive awareness of the quality and versatility of British beef to consumers using a country-wide network of dynamic lady beef producers,” said Ladies in Beef co-founder Jilly Greed.

“British livestock is produced to some of the highest welfare standards in the world and Great British Beef week gives us a tremendous opportunity to bang the drum for our wonderful beef farmers”, she added.

The annual campaign is partnered with the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI), which provides financial support, practical care and guidance to farming people of all ages.

Ladies in Beef co-founder and NFU president Minette Batters believes beef farmers must engage with consumers to communicate key messages on quality and farm assurance.

She said: “Ladies in Beef is entirely a voluntary organisation. Very soon after formation, we quickly discovered how we could help influence consumer trust in our product, where the public could relate to nurturing, cooking and caring for the family alongside raising livestock to high production standards.

“It’s such an achievement to reach a 10th anniversary as well as raise thousands of pounds for the vital work of RABI.”

The group supports the Red Tractor mark.