This summer will once again see the Society’s YDP initiative supporting the next generation of the UK sheep industry, by sponsoring NSA Young Shepherds’ competitions at NSA ScotSheep and The NSA Sheep Event.
Society chief executive John Yates said these competitions were an excellent way to support the next generation of sheep farmers and encourage best practice and excellence in the UK sheep industry.
“Supporting these competitions is 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.
The competition at Scotsheep, which will act as a qualifier for the National final at Malvern, will see entrants challenged in a six tasks of which they must complete five.
These include prime lamb selection, shearing two sheep, ATV handling, sheepdog handling, demonstrating knowledge of foot care techniques (compulsory) and answer questions on flock management and health (compulsory).
Numbers are strictly limited at 20 participants, so early entry is advised. For more information see the Scotsheep website.
