A youth day organised by the Texel Sheep Society’s Youth Development Programme, will offer those attending a range of opportunities to improve their skills and knowledge in all aspects of the sheep sector.
The event, TXL Day Out, will take place at Borderway Mart, Carlisle, on Sunday 18thNovember, immediately following the Society’s iTexel conference at Penrith on Saturday 17thNovember.
Among the topics to be covered in a number of interactive sessions at the event will be grassland management, health management, stock selection, butchery and show and sale preparation, said the Texel Sheep Society’s YDP coordinator Ailish Ross.
“The day will offer young people involved in the Texel breed the opportunity to learn from a number of leading figures in the sheep sector while engaging with each other and forming long-lasting social and business relationships,” she explained.
It is essential the next generation of sheep farmers have a full understanding of all aspects of the industry, particularly in light of the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Brexit negotiations and trading relationships with the rest of the EU after next March, added Miss Ross.
“However, while the day will have a strong learning element to it there will also be a range of fun activities involved too, helping to promote long-term relationships among those attending.
“Like any business the sheep industry is built upon people. Developing relationships with those people who can help you improve your business or role within it is key to success,” she explained.
“By bringing together a range of key individuals with expertise from across the sheep sector the YDP aims to both provide valuable knowledge exchange and inspire the next generation to drive the sheep industry forward to a profitable, sustainable future.”
Key speakers confirmed include grassland management expert and former Nuffield Scholar Gareth Davies, independent sheep consultant Kate Phillips and butcher Tom Wood.
All three of these speakers are recognised as some of the leading lights of their sectors, said Miss Ross. “These speakers will give young breeders the chance to learn from the best of the best and take away valuable insight in to key aspects of flock and business management,” she added.
Attendance at the TXL Day Out is open to all those aged under 35 and with an interest in the Texel breed and progressing within the sheep industry, said Miss Ross. “There is no requirement for attendees to have their own flock or even be from a farming background and family members and parents and guardians are also welcome to take part in the day.”
