With interest in alpacas being very high in the West Country, the 2008 conference will be held in the Plymouth area, with practical sessions kindly hosted by Popham Alpacas. The dates are 16 to 19 October.

Our guest speaker is Dr William Vivanco, head of genetic resources and biotechnology at the Peruvian National Institute of Agricultural Research in Lima. He is a leader in the development of new techniques such as embryo technology, and he has much to share with us, including the latest advances in selective breeding for colour, a goal of many of the alpaca owners in the UK.

As usual, there will be space in the programme for plenty of debate and for presentations from members. If you have a case or research you want to present, let the secretary know as soon as possible.

The conference will start with a practical session on Thursday afternoon, covering general welfare and handling issues. Although this is particularly aimed at those who may be relatively new to camelid care and/or to the society and its conference, it is very popular with regular conference attendees. Saturday will see a second practical session, also at Popham Alpacas, led by Dr Vivanco. We aim to finish the conference with lunch on Sunday.

We have chosen to host the conference in the West Country this year as we have many members in the area who we encourage to come along. Those in the Midlands and north of the country who fear that Plymouth may be a long trek by road should consider the flights of Air Southwest to Plymouth airport. Plymouth is also well served by Cross Country Trains from the Midlands and north, and by First Great Western trains from London.

Click here for full information on this year's conference, together with a booking form