Research hub set up to eliminate bovine TB

A NEW International research hub is being established in Wales to target one of farming’s most devastating diseases.

The Centre of Excellence for Bovine Tuberculosis for Wales is due to open at Aberystwyth University later this year.

It will bring national and international expertise together with the aim of eradicating the deadly cattle disease.

The £3.6m facility will attempt to commercialise the products it develops, such as new diagnostic tests and vaccines.

Rural affairs secretary Lesley Griffiths said the centre could be a “real game-changer” in the fight against bovine TB.

In Wales alone, disease costs are estimated at £26m a year through TB controls and compensation for slaughtered cattle.

“Bovine TB is the most pressing animal health challenge for Wales today,” said the Minister.

“It’s had a devastating impact on the national cattle herd and the farming community, while being a significant burden on public finances.”

Heading up the centre’s work will be Professor Glyn Hewinson, a world-renowned bTB expert.

As the lead scientist for bTB at the Animal and Plant Health Agency, he has researched the disease for more than 20 years.

He is one of three named OIE (World Organisation for Animal Health) experts on the disease and is chair of the Global Research Alliance for Bovine Tuberculosis.

Wales’ chief vet Dr Christianne Glossop said Prof Hewinson is a bTB pioneer with world-class expertise.

“He is held in the highest regard among his peers internationally and his appointment is a real statement of intent in our determination to tackle this disease,” she said.

The centre is backed by Ser Cymru II, a programme funded by the Welsh Government, EU and Aberystwyth University to grow academic research expertise in Wales.

The chief vet’s own departmental budget provided a £1m contribution.

A key remit of the research hub is to collaborate with both government and industry organisations.