Parlours are the hot topic for discussion at an open event near Bere Alston on Wednesday June 18 hosted by DairyCo — which replaced the Milk Development Council. Host farmer Phil Rundle is, like many others, investigating whether to extend his 15-year old 8:16 herringbone parlour or build a new one.  Dairy farmers in the region are invited to come along and find out what advice Ian Ohnstad, of The Dairy Group, has to offer, as well as try-out DairyCo's Parlour Wizard. The event will look at best practice in parlour design and cow flow as well as examining different parlour options.  Using Parlour Wizard, farmers will be able to examine the costs of different ideas, and DairyCo extension officer for Cornwall and West Devon Rachael Chamberlayne will be on hand to assist with any queries. Rachael says: 'Many farmers in the region are thinking about whether to extend their existing parlour or start from scratch.  This event will give them the opportunity to hear from a parlour expert and experiment with a comprehensive planning tool, Parlour Wizard.' The open meeting will take place at Ferry Farm, Bere Alston, by permission of D and W and P Rundle on Wednesday June 18 between 11am and 2.30pm.  To book your place call the DairyCo message line on 01285 646517.