What a fabulous career – Derek Armstrong retires

Derek graduated as a veterinary surgeon in 1983 and worked in veterinary research at the Veterinary Research Laboratories in Northern Ireland and in general practice in Ireland and New Zealand. He joined the Meat and Livestock Commission in 1998. 

He is an author of more than 30 scientific publications and was President of the Pig Veterinary Society (PVS) between 2008–09.

Derek was instrumental in helping the industry tackle PMWS, set up the Salmonella monitoring scheme, played an important role in the development of the Real Welfare Scheme and was heavily involved in our work on PEDv.

Mandy Nevel, Head of Animal Health and Welfare, said: "Derek’s contribution to the health and welfare of pigs over his career has been immense. I am in awe of the way he worked with academics, clinicians, producers and others in the industry simultaneously. His ability to do this means that Derek was instrumental in starting many of the great initiatives that continue to improve pig health and welfare.

"Of particular note is the Pig Health Scheme that Derek established, which continues to provide valuable information to producers and their vets from the abattoir. Although in more recent years Derek has returned to the Dairy sector, he has been an invaluable mentor and colleague, continuing to contribute to AHDB’s work in the pork sector.

"I am hugely grateful for his generosity of sharing his knowledge and experience."

We wish Derek a very happy retirement and thank him for his dedication to our industry.