The Laxfield Herd was established by David Smith in Suffolk village of Laxfield in 1972 with the purchase of five cows from Lt Cmdr Burnell-Nugent. The renowned sire Rowington Valerian was purchased soon after from Mr M.D Powell of Glynclawdd Herefords. Every animal shown at Hereford by M.D Powell sired by Valerian was a prize winner and his first calf for David Smith (Laxfield Bernard) was champion at the 1976 March Show and Sale in Hereford. Further female lines were soon added notably the Diadem, Kate, Virtue, Marigold and Silk lines with particular attention being paid to the background breeding of the cattle.

In 1977 the herd moved to its present day home at Blaenffynnon, Talog. Over the years the herd has developed a reputation for producing cattle which go on to perform for their owners.