Next week’s NSA Sheep Event, Malvern, will see the Texel Sheep Society once again supporting the younger members of the sheep industry, sponsoring the NSA Next Generation shepherds’ competition.
Sponsored as part of the Society’s Youth Development Programme, this national competition will see regional winners from across GB compete in a range of tests designed to showcase their skills in practical sheep husbandry.
Texel Society chief executive John Yates said the Society’s continued support of this competition was just one of a number of activities the Society undertakes in support of the younger generation. “There is no doubting that with a changing focus in agricultural support across the UK in future years the sheep industry is facing challenging times.
“The sheep sector has plenty of enthusiastic young entrants, but they need every opportunity available to them to succeed. This is vital if the UK is to remain a competitive player in the world sheep industry,” he explained.
Many of those who have competed in the Young Shepherds competitions in past years are now a key part of successful businesses, filling a wide range of essential roles within the industry.
“The Texel Sheep Society youth development programme is pleased to have played a role in helping to support NSA in developing these people for the benefit of both themselves and the wider sheep industry,” added Mr Yates.
Meanwhile, the Society is also offering event visitors the chance to take part in its summer competition to win an EID reader in conjunction with Kiwikit Roxan.
“This EID reader is worth more than £950 and will be of benefit to any sheep farming business no matter their size, type or location. The Society is delighted to partner with Kiwikit Roxan in this competition,” said Mr Yates.
“Input price rises mean that exacting flock management is of paramount importance across the industry. Monitoring flock performance through EID is one of the best ways of identifying the genetics which are performing within your business,” he added.
To enter the competition either visit the Society stand (Stand 94) at the NSA Sheep Event or see the Society website.