Preparing for show and sale success - A step by step practical workshop
Date: 20th May 2023
Time: 10.30am
Location: Sandlands Farm, Frisby on the Wreake, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, LE14 2NS
More than 40 keen young sheep breeders gathered together last weekend to gain top tips to succeed in the pedigree sheep show and sale rings.
The practical workshop, ‘Preparing for show and sale success’, was organised as part of the NSA (National Sheep Association) Next Generation programme, that supports the future of the sheep industry through providing young farmers with access to training, advice and development.
Those attending the event, kindly hosted by experienced and highly regarded sheep breeders the Sercombe family at their home, Sandlands Farm, Leicestershire, heard from the successful sheep breeding family as well as industry experts visiting a series of workshop stations covering each step needed to correctly prepare stock for show or sale.
The workshop included topics on stock selection, performance recording and nutrition – the foundations to a successful sheep production, before moving on to the practical skills of sheep washing and trimming required to prepare stock for show and sale. Welcoming attendees who travelled from across the UK to the event, Charles Sercombe emphasised the commitment and hard work needed in preparing sheep for shows effectively.
NSA Communications Manager Katie James, who helped coordinate the event says: “The showing of pedigree stock at agricultural shows is for many a highlight of the year so understandably continues to attract new competitors who want to enjoy the opportunity to show off their stock. This workshop attracted those yet to step foot in the show or sale ring as well as those with some experience looking for tips to help them secure future success.
“Thanks must go to the Sercombe family for their hospitality, providing their farm as an ideal venue and for passing on their many years of experience. There could be few better people to learn from.”
The NSA Next Generation breeding and showing workshop was the first in a series of new interactive sessions aimed at the next generation of sheep farmers. The programme is now looking forward to teaming up with the International Sheepdog Society (ISDS) to deliver two introductory dog training workshops this July in Suffolk and Aberdeenshire.
Further details of upcoming workshops can be found on the NSA website www.nationalsheep.org.uk/events.
