THERE are a number of open and working farms in the area and they are a popular visitor attraction both for local residents, schools and visitors to Herefordshire. However, the Pig Pen, near Bromyard, which opened last year gives a different kind of experience for its visitors.

''Comments from our satisfied customers are a guide that our first year has indeed been a success,'' said owner, Frank Hulme. ''We received a letter from one of the young visitors saying thank you for letting us come to the Pig Pen and showing us all about pigs I enjoyed the woodland walk. Thank you for letting me touch the little piglets'' Another visitor commented: ''It's rare to find a place where the public can get so close to the pigs and even rarer to be greeted with such enthusiastic, friendly and knowledgeable staff. We were very impressed with the whole unit and the facilities on offer to customers. Nice cakes, nice tea and a very nice gift shop rounded off the whole affair.''

Frank Hulme adds that the Pig Pen has welcomed a whole range of visitors during its first year of opening and it is particularly rewarding to see them returning in this second year bringing their family and friends. There are many bookings from nursery groups, and cycling and rambling clubs build in a visit to their itineraries to make a tea stop with a difference.

The Pig Pen experience is open to everyone, much of the farm is wheelchair-friendly and every visitor has the opportunity to hold a piglet. All visits are guided and explanations are given on the skill and welfare aspects of commercial pig keeping. The children's play area gives an added difference as all the equipment is made on the farm and for anyone looking to take a reminder of their experience home with them there is a small gift shop.

The Pig Pen is open every day from May-September and is also open at Easter and October

half-term and can be found at Linley Green, near Whitbourne. For more information contact the owners on 01886 884362.