A TEENAGER has been named one of the country’s best young pig handlers.

Ryan Perry, from Washington, Wearside, was reserve champion in the British Pig Association’s Young Pig Handling Championships.

The 17-year-old said: “I was up against some experienced farmers, too, who have been doing this for years, so I was really chuffed.”

Ryan has volunteered at Bill Quay Community Farm, Gateshead, since he was eight.

He said: “They can be quite a challenge to handle, but I have always liked working with them.”

Farm manager Doug Tuck said: “In a short space of time, he has gone from a novice to an expert and has done amazingly well.”

Using only a stick and board to keep the pig under control, Ryan impressed the judges with his handling skills in an arena containing obstacles.

He said: “I always work with Tamworth pigs, which can be quite spirited and can be hard to handle, but if I put the work in, it is fine.

“I like to work with the younger ones, which really shows off my skills.

“I get a few jokes from my friends, but really they do support what I do.”