Charollais times april 2015 12 pp

CHAROLLAIS TIMES April 2015

Spring lambs, competiton winners new Chairmen and a Charollais Wool House.

And now for something completely different! Pictured below is a shepherds hut in Cumbria covered in Charollais Wool. Surrounding the building are ‘boulders’ also made from Charollais Wool. This art installation was the work of Cumbrian artist Annabel Lewis and the wool came from David Norman’s Kirkhouse flock.

APRIL 2015 ISSUE New F&GP Chairman is elected Region elections Sale entries Your guide to Grassroots Reports on 2014 NSA Events All the financial results for 2014

WWW.CHAROLLAISSHEEP.COM visit us on FACEBOOK

HEADING ON NEW CHAIRMAN OF F&GP COMMITTEE SPOTLIGHT CONTENTS

Page

New F&GP Chairman

2

Breeders News

3

Show Boards

3

Scrapie Testing

4

Grassroots Guide

5

NSA Events

6-7

Chairman’s Report

8

Annual Report & Financial Statements

9

Shows 2013

10

New Members

11

Regional News

12

After 16 years in the role of Chairman of the Finance and General Purposes Committee, Charles Marwood will step down at the Annual General Meeting.

This relatively small committee is made up of 2 Council members (appointed by Council on an annual basis), the National Chairman, Chairman of F&GP and two co-opted members. It was formed to fulfil two important functions for the Society. Firstly it looks into the financial aspects of the Society in more depth than the Directors would have sufficient time at the board meetings to do and secondly it discusses in an informal manner new ideas and structures for the Society. All matters discussed at F&GP are reported on to the Board for their further thoughts and approval. It is the Council (Board) which is responsible for all actions on behalf of the company.

We were delighted that two members of the Society were keen to put themselves forward for the role of Chairman of F&GP; Mr John Osborne, Cornwall and Mr Charles Sercombe, Leicestershire.

A postal ballot has been undertaken with all members of Council and F&GP voting on their preferred candidate. The outcome of the vote was the appointment of Charles Sercombe who takes over from Charles Marwood after the AGM. CHARLES SERCOMBE - NEW CHAIRMAN OF F&GP A former student of the Brooksby Agricultural College where he earned distinctions in agriculture and farm business management, Charles Sercombe is well-known amongst Charollais breeders. After a variety of work in the agricultural industry he began farming full time in 1997 and in 1999 took over the tenancy of a county council farm. Current stocking includes approximately 3,000 breeding sheep including flocks of Charollais, Lleyn, Norbryd, Texel and crossbred ewes and followers.

Charollais Times is published by the British Charollais Sheep Society.

Editors : Carroll Barber Jonathan Barber For more information on any of the subjects covered in this edition, please call the office or visit our website at www.charollaissheep.com Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy neither the Charollais Society nor the authors can accept liability for errors and omissions.

BCSS Youngmans Road, Wymondham, Norfolk. NR18 0RR

Tel : 01953 603335 Email : office@charollaissheep.com 2 - CHAROLLAIS TIMES APRIL 2015

Charles is especially proud of his Dalby flock of Charollais which is regarded amongst the very top flocks in the breed both in terms of show results and performance recording progress. In the sale ring males have made up to 6,500 gns and females to 7,000 gns. Major successes have also been achieved in the show ring winning 3 Royal Show Breed Champions and have twice won the Interbreed “Champion of Champions” Award at the Royal Welsh Show.

Charles was a BCSS Council member for 6 years and has served on the Finance & General Purposes committee for 9 years. He is also a member of the Judges Committee and helps with inspections at the larger sales Outside of the Society Charles has been appointed to a number of high profile positions within the livestock sector; NSA member of the English National committee, UK Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board Progressive Sheep Group, Member of the English Sheep Health and Welfare Council, Member of the Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep Group and is now the Chairman of the National Livestock Board for the National Farmers Union along with being a member of their National Policy and Governance Boards. From 2012 to 2014 he was elected to Chair the European Commission Advisory Working Group for Sheep Meat and he is also vice-chairman for the Copa-Cogeca working party on sheep.

We look forward to his Chairmanship of our committee.

BREEDERS HEADING NEWS REGIONAL ELECTIONS We welcome 2 new Regional Chairman to the Board of Directors. Both were appointed unopposed in their regions. In Wales we are pleased that Dewi Prichard Evans is taking on the role. Dewi is our first director from the Isle of Anglesey, where he runs the Ffrwd Flock.

In Northern Ireland, well-know sheep and cattle breeder William McAllister will be taking over the duties.

Standard Rate up to 3 months of age £2.00 (+VAT)

SALE ENTRIES

Late Rate - after 3 months of age £8.00 (+VAT) This allows breeders an additional month in which to Birth Notify their lambs. These dates will be strictly adhered to and any lambs being birth notified after the 3 month cut off time will be charged at the £8.00 rate.

Just a reminder that our Society allows entry of all Birth Notified Males into our Society Sales, without requiring an upgrade fee. (except Worcester Premier).

In North of Scotland, Bruce Irvine will continue for a 2nd term of office. We would like to thank the 2 outgoing officers; Meilir Jones in Wales and Jonathan Aiken in 2015 the letter for ram names is : Northern Ireland who have both done a fantastic job both at regional and national level.

NAMES FOR RAMS

‘P’

F&GP COMMITTEE The committee has appointed a new Council member to its ranks.

Bruce Irvine will join the team after the AGM, following the retirement of Meilir Jones from Council. Andrew Walton continues as the 2nd Council representative on the committee.

BIRTH NOTIFICATIONS CHARGES Council agreed at the their meeting in February to simplify the rate of charges for Birth Notification. We will now work on the age of each lamb from their date of birth. We will now have just two categories of rates : Standard and Late.

The time for birth notifying at the Standard Rate has been extended to 3 months. All lambs birth notified later than this deadline will be charged at the Late Rate.

NEW BIRTH NOTIFICATION RATES

WE ARE GUESSING THAT POLDARK MIGHT FEATURE IN THE NAMES CHOSEN THIS YEAR - OR MAYBE PADDINGTON?

PERSONALISED SHOW BOARDS AND BANNERS Would you like a new show board for your flock? Advertise your sheep at shows and sales with an eye-catching, professional board or maybe a banner to go around your pens. We can design and produce these for you.

If you are interested then get in touch and we can draft a design and give you a quotation - this is dependent on size and material used.

DG

DG

of Pedigree Charollais Sheep C W Marwood & Son Foulrice, Whenby, York. YO61 4SD Tel : 01347 878529 Mobile : 07980 563153 Signet Recorded MV Accredited

Visitors Welcome

This year we will be taking sale entries via the Grassroots Pedeweb system and also through the original paper system.

Please note that closing dates on the web work automatically, so you will not be able to get late entries in. BUT this does not mean we will take late entries via other routes. Please help us to get information out in good time - this works to help sell the sheep more effectively - so please be on time.

BANK CHARGES You will all be aware of increased charges from your bank for paying in cheques and cash they are encouraging us all to use electronic ways of doing our banking business.

The Society has enjoyed free banking from Barclays since its formation, but this is no longer the case. We therefore would urge all members to pay their invoices to the Society either by Direct Debit or ebanking transfer.

At present we do not charge for taking payments by cheque, but as they now cost the Society more to process, we may have to consider a different scale of charges in the future.

SO PLEASE SAVE YOURSELF AND YOUR SOCIETY MONEY BY PAYING BY DIRECT DEBIT OR EBANKING. if you wish to pay your invoices from the Society by Direct Debit payment, then please contact us for the relevant form.

To pay by ebanking, please put your Flock Reference letters as the reference on the payment, so we can allocate it correctly. The bank details are :

Sort Code : 20-99-08 Account No : 30196851

CHAROLLAIS TIMES APRIL 2015 - 3

HEADING INFORMATION BREEDERS SCRAPIE TESTING SCRAPIE The Society offers a service to GENOTYPING members to process scrapie tests.

AND EXPORT Members should contact the office to request sample collectors - one collector is needed for each sheep you wish to test. We will then send you all the details you need to take the sample and dispatch it to the laboratory. Sampling is by a taking small piece of ear tissue with the collector and pliers.

The costs will be :-

Sample collectors £1.70 (+VAT) each Genotyping test £9.00 (+VAT) each Hire of applicator £2 (+VAT) for 2 weeks Purchase of applicator £25 (+VAT) Breeders should allow at least 2 weeks from sampling for their results. Results are supplied to the Society as well as the breeder, so we can enter these details on the sheep database.

Closing Date for the Worcester Premier Sale is Wed 29th May

IF YOU WISH YOUR SHEEP TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR EXPORT TO NORTHERN IRELAND, IRELAND OR ANY OTHER EU COUNTRIES THEN THE FOLLOWING APPLIES WITH REGARD TO SCRAPIE GENOTYPE TESTING. THE TEST HAS TO BE APPROVED FOR EXPORT.

So it is up to breeders to get their tests completed in good time for the sale. Remember it can take up to 4 weeks and it is possible to have to re-test some sheep to get a result.

MEMBERS HANDBOOK

1 If your flock is Scrapie Monitored you can use Agrobiogen tests to be eligible for The 2015 edition of the Members export. You may take the sample Handbook has been circulated to yourself. all full members. Please take time to read this, especially if you will 2 If your flock is NOT Scrapie be entering sales during the year.

Monitored then the only route for A few alterations from 2014 that scrapie testing which will be you should be aware of are : accepted for export is for your veterinary surgeon to take the Brecon Female Sale have samples and these are analysed changed their date to a Saturday,

by SAC. 24th Oct. 3 If your flock is NOT Scrapie Monitored then to be eligible for export the sheep must be scrapie genotype ARR/ARR The Society accepts results, taken by the breeder for entry into Worcester Premier Sale.

WORCESTER PREMIER SALE Ballot

A new Female Sale will be held at Exeter Market on Friday 16th October.

Minimum Selling Prices - we have introduced new minimum selling prices to distinguish between in-lamb and empty females.

Empty Shearling Ewes Empty Ewes In-lamb Shearling Ewes In-lamb Ewes Ewe Lambs

250 gns 200 gns 320 gns 230 gns 200 gns

Just a reminder on the rotational system that will come into force for this years Worcester Premier Sale. Last year vendors were split onto 3 sections; front, middle and All other Minimum selling price remain unchanged. back. All 2nd run of rams come after these 3 sections. This year the sections will all move on one step. Also all vendors within each section will be re-drawn. New vendors will be allocated a section by ballot.

Scrapie Genotype Test No Late Entries.

Entries on BCSS forms or via Grassroots Genotype Results at time of entry.

WE WILL NOT ACCEPT ANY ENTRIES UNLESS THEY ARE ACCOMPANIED

BY THE FULL TEST RESULTS FOR ALL SHEEP.

All sheep entered for the Worcester Premier Sale must have an individual test result for Scrapie Genotype.

ALL ANIMALS MUST BE ARR/ARR.

4 - CHAROLLAIS TIMES APRIL 2015

Facebook just keeps on growing in popularity - we have recently passed the 2,500 ‘likes’. We will also be using Twitter this year to get our message to more potential customers.

GUIDE TO GRASSROOTS HEADING PEDEWEB IS THE VERY EXCITING INTERACTIVE ‘ON LINE’ FLOCK BOOK NOW AVAILABLE TO CHAROLLAIS BREEDERS, FOLLOWING OUR MIGRATION TO THE GRASSROOTS SYSTEM. You will have received a letter with your login details and password and some brief instructions.

However, if you have not received this, or mislaid your password, please do not hesitate to contact me.

TO ACCESS PEDEWEB - go to www.charollaissheep.com and click on the link on the members page and input your flock number and password.

ANIMAL SEARCH - this option enables you to search for any animal listed on the Charollais database. If you type your own flock reference in the owner box and click ‘search for animals’, a full list of animals in your registered ownership will be displayed. The list can be shortened by filling in other boxes such as sex, year of birth etc.

email, region, website, flock name etc. If your name is not underlined, we have not received your authorisation, so please contact the office.

email address.

either case an animal cannot be entered that does not fulfil the criteria set up by the office. If you have any problems with an animal you believe is eligible for entry into a class, please do not hesitate to contact us. (please note that Grassroots uses the term ‘class’ for age category)

The main menu options here are:-

SURVEY - In order to keep the

MANAGE YOUR OWN FLOCK - Click and confirm your

BIRTHS - All lamb notifications can be input here - please remember the new timelines recently published for birth notifications.

Complete one ‘form’ for each lamb by typing in the individual information for each birth. The Sire and Dam can be chosen from the drop down pick list, or in the case of the sire, can be chosen from the database as a whole by the “search for sire” option.

BIRTH NOTIFY TO REGISTER - This option allows

It is worth noting that anything underlined is a link, so you can select an animal by clicking on it and then have the ability, by using the options list above it, to view the relevant pedigree and progeny. Again, by clicking on any underlined animal listed in the pedigree table, you will be able to see their pedigree and progeny etc.

animals can be recorded here that have been sold for meat or died.

TRANSFERS - All transfers, either to another breeder, to market or to a non-member, can be notified here to ensure all are up to date and correct flock information only is published.

ANIMALS FOR SALE /HIRE / AI - Animals available for Sale / SALE ENTRIES - All Sales will

THERE IS A FULL VERSION OF THE “USER GUIDE” ON THE WEBSITE AT ON THE MEMBERS TAB.

birth notified sheep to be upgraded to Full Pedigree for any alive Birth Notified animals currently in your registered ownership.

hire / AI, should be listed here.

Alternatively, you can update the records throughout the year in the ’manage your flock’ option.

WWW.CHAROLLAISSHEEP.COM

DEATHS/SLAUGHTER - All If you have any sheep that you think should be, but are not, listed here, please contact the office

society database up to date we will do a survey once a year to capture all flock changes. This will replace the old system of sending out flock listings each year in October. More details about this will be made available later in the year.

This is a very brief outline of what the system has to offer, but it is not exhaustive, so please go on line and have a “dabble”.

It is worth mentioning that there is NOTHING you do on line that will affect the database or cannot be rectified this end. Everything submitted to the Society, as previously, is checked before it is allowed to be entered on to the database.

The database is then uploaded each afternoon, so that before close of play on any week day, the database is duplicated onto the web.

If you have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to contact me and I will help all that I can.

be shown on line three weeks before the entry closing date, to find members by clicking on the Elaine Tinsley link to ‘member search’. The more enable entries to be made.

Members are encouraged to boxes you fill, the fewer records will be displayed. Only underlined complete their sale entries on line, Entries must be paid for by direct members have given permission debit, ebank or cheque at the for all their details to be shown, time. Entries can be inputted but by clicking on an underlined name, you can view their address, either by class, or by animal, but in

MEMBERS SEARCH - you can

CHAROLLAIS TIMES APRIL 2015 - 5

HEADING NSA EVENTS 2015 NSA Welsh Sheep Tuesday 19th May Venue: Glanmiheli and Drefor farms in Kerry, near Newtown, Powys.

Two very different farming systems run by two brothers, rising from 600 feet above sea level to 1400 feet, will be open to show visitors. The event will showcase some of the best that Mid Wales has to offer, with views extending almost from Shrewsbury to Snowdon. Visitors will enjoy a farm tour taking in the two adjoining holdings, as well as the opportunity to update on the latest in the sheep industry at seminars and demonstrations, including health planning, sheep handling, shearing and cookery.

Sheep Dog trials will be among the attractions.

Competitions will include the popular Welsh Young Shepherd of the Year Competition, as well as Ready Steady Cook, wool on the hoof and Trade Stand competitions. There will also be a sale of ewe hoggs. (see details on page ??)

Show & Sale of Pairs of Ewe Hoggs/Yearling ewes Entries from breeders of the following breed sections are now being accepted for this unique show and sale to be held at NSA Welsh Sheep 2015 Class Breed Judge:- David Jerman, Trefeglwys Class 1 Native Upland Class 2 Native Lowland Class 3 Continental The above Sections will be based on the RWAS breed classifications for the Interbreed Championships Entry: Open to empty ewe hoggs/yearling ewes born in 2014 with MV and Non MV Accreditation.

Entries will be limited to a maximum of 4 entries per breed and 2 per vendor. Entries may be cut back further at the discretion of NSA Cymru/Wales committee if necessary.

The holdings are adjoining but very different, yet the two families face the same difficult question: how much longer will they be able to afford to produce top quality livestock with the change in the system of subsidy payment looming?

Entry Fees: Exhibitors must be fully paid up members of National Sheep Association (Membership £50 per annum), £50 + VAT per pair of ewe hogs/yearling ewes entered to be paid to NSA. 2 entry tickets to event will be supplied per NSA Welsh Sheep will be based at Glanmiheli Farm, exhibitor. Further exhibitor entry tickets can be Kerry, near Newtown, farmed by Geraint Powell, with purchased at £5 + VAT. £25 of the entry money will his wife Anabel, 19 year old son Lloyd and daughters, be donated to Charity.

Rosie 21 and 16 year old Billie-Jo. They produce finished lambs from Welsh Mules put to Suffolk, Entry Charollais and Texel tups and which are sold to Closing Date: Monday 27th April 2015 Waitrose and at Welshpool Livestock Market.

Judging: Sheep must be penned before 7.00pm on The event also takes in Drefor, farmed by Morton Monday 18th May 2015. Judging will commence at and his wife, Mandy, with teenage daughters Megan 9.00 am within pens on Tuesday 19th May 2015. and Mary and son, David. They run 800 Welsh Mules, 400 Beulahs and 400 Welsh Mountain ewes, and Prize Money: 1st £200, 2nd £150, 3rd £100, 4th £75, farm some rented ground just over the border in 5th £50 + Prize Cards, for each class.

England.

Sale: Will commence at 4.30pm with ewe The Charollais stand will be in the non-MV section hoggs/yearling ewes sold per head in pairs in and will feature a number of commercial ewes with guineas. LAA conditions of pedigree sheep sales will Charollais lambs at foot. Please come and visit the apply. All ewe hogs/yearling ewes shown within the stand - if you would like to help by spending an hour show must be offered for sale. Those not sold will talking to potential customers, you will be most forfeit the prize money. WLS will donate the welcome - especially if you are Welsh speaking. commission to charity.

Please contact Meilir Jones or the office to let us know if you wish to help.

Further Details and Entry Forms are available from Helen Davies – NSA Welsh Sheep Organiser Tel: 01938 590535 Mobile: 07976 803066 Email: helen@nationalsheep.org.uk www.welshsheep.org.uk

6 - CHAROLLAIS TIMES APRIL 2015

NSA EVENTS HEADING 2015 NSA Highland Sheep Tuesday 9th June

NSA Sheep South West Tuesday 16th June

Venue : Fearn Farm, Tain, Ross-shire

Venue: Higher Nymet, North Tawton, Devon. EX20 2BP

UK Sheep Farmer of the Year, John Scott, is hosting an open day on his farm in June to promote the sheep industry in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.

In addition to giving visitors the opportunity of a farm tour to view Mr Scott’s flock of commercial sheep, pedigree flocks of Texel, Beltex and New Zealand Suffolks and the recent addition of Aberfield hybrids, the one day event will include trade stands, educational exhibits, practical demonstrations, competitions, seminars and a focus on grassland management.

Mr Scott farms Fearn with his wife Fiona, and parents James and Janet, and also has extensive grazings in Sutherland. Mr Scott is a board member of Quality Meat Scotland and chairs the Scottish sheep industry group. The Scott’s are one of five farming families in Scotland whose activities over the year are being followed by a BBC2 camera team for a 12-programme series of ‘On The Farm’ next year.

Check out the details at www.nsascotland.org.uk

NSA North Sheep Wednesday 3rd June

This event will be packed with different activiites and include farm tours around the Quick Famiy’s pedigree Texel and Charollais flocks, as well as commercial ewe flocks. Sheep dog sale, lamb selection, carcase competitions, Shepherd of the Future competition and a new for 2015 ‘Gift of the Gavel’ competition. It should be a day not to be missed.

The Society will have a breed display stand hopefully featuring sheep from the host farm.

Please come along and see us.

Further details at www.sheepsouthwest.org.uk

NSA Sheep Northern Ireland Monday 1st July Venue: Ballymena Market NSA Northern Ireland returns to Ballymena Market for their bi-annual event. This is an excellent day for all those interested in sheep; seminars, displays, competitions and a very wide range of trade stands.

The market provides the perfect venue Northern Ireland region will be mounting a large

Venue: Millstone Moor Farm, Cockermouth, display for the breed aided by Jonathan and Carroll Cumbria.

Barber, who will be over for the event.

The industry showcase will be staged by kind permission of Neil and Sally Marston. The Marstons are noted for the quality of the Bluefaced Leicesters and North of England Mule sheep they breed.

Details from Edward Adamson on 07711 071290

All these events will be of great interest to sheep farmers - trade stands, seminars, competitions, demonstrations and farm The packed day will provide a showcase for anyone tours are all part of the activities at these involved in the sheep industry with competitions, demonstrations, seminars and around 200 trade NSA events. Jonathan will build stands at stands. Features include the Young Shepherd of the al the NSA events and be present to Year contest for 16-26 year olds, North of England discuss any matters with members. inter-county shearing competition and a Ready, Steady Cook style cookery contest.

NSA North Sheep is also a noted venue for people to learn more about countryside crafts and practical activities such as dry stone walling demonstrations, stickmaking, spinning, weaving and felting displays, and to stock up at a traditional farmers market and craft stalls.

Our Charollais stand will be in the Non-MV area and will highlight different ewe breeds with Charollais lambs at foot.

Further details at www.northsheep.org.uk

NEW FOR 2015 NSA MEMBERS WILL HAVE FREE ENTRY TO THESE EVENTS. For more information on all NSA activities and how to join go to www.nationalsheep.org.uk

CHAROLLAIS TIMES APRIL 2015 - 7

CHAIRMAN’S HEADING REPORT 2014 - DAVID MAWHINNEY Although this past year has been very challenging for us all we can look back and find a lot of things to be positive about. We started the year as usual with another very enjoyable AGM weekend in Wales. A lovely hotel, set in very scenic surroundings plus a very impressive display of sheep, combined with excellent hospitality and entertainment ensured that a great time was had by all.

less sheep sold. Can I encourage everyone to support these sales when possible but remember it takes good sheep to sell well.

During November last I had the privilege, along with three other members to attend one of the biggest livestock events in the world, namely Eurotier in Hanover, Germany. The two shearling rams which we displayed on our corner of the British Livestock stand caught the attention of a large The show season started as usual number of interested people and at the beginning of May and groups of people from all over the Charollais breeders from all over world. Over the four days we were the country turned out some very completely bombarded by fine sheep. The fact that they were questions and enquiries from prepared and presented to such a many different sources, all high standard was proven by the wanting more information about large number of interbreeds won these UK Charollais sheep. This is once again by Charollais last year. by far the most exciting prospect I When attending not only the have experienced in almost thirty shows but also the NSA events years of being involved with and other Open days, which we as Charollais and together we must a breed organise, I was very encourage and develop this pleased and proud to see the high potential outlet. standard of stock and showmanship on display.

As I come to the end of this year and also my report there are a few Although prices last year were not changes taking place which I always as good as we would have would like to record. Firstly our liked averages were up at most of Chairman of F&GP, Charles Marwood, who has expertly held the main sales but with slightly

this post for some sixteen years has decided to retire. Can I pass on my personal thanks and also thank Charles on behalf of our members for the huge effort and dedication he has given to this job. Thank you Charles! Can I also congratulate our new Finance Chairman, another Charles, this time Charles Sercombe, for agreeing to take on this job.

We are also changing two council members this year they have served their six years, namely Meilir Jones from Wales and Jonathan Aiken from Northern Ireland. Many thanks to Meilir and Johnnie and I look forward to welcoming the two new chairmen at the forthcoming AGM. Finally I would like to thank Jonathan, Carroll, Council and all the office staff for their help and support over the past year. I am sure when we all get familiar with the new Grassroots system for birth notifications, pedigrees etc we will find it to be a very efficient improvement. I will finish by wishing everyone involved in the breed a successful year ahead.

David Mawhinney

REPORT FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF F&GP COMMITTEE - CHARLES MARWOOD After sixteen years as chairman of F & GP the time has come to write my final report. I have planned to retire from the post halfway through David Mawhinney`s tenure as National Chairman in order to try & maintain continuity in running of the society. I have greatly enjoyed the challenges & opportunities of being able to serve the society in this way & trust that you will give my successor Charles Sercombe ( elected jointly by Council & F & GP ) as much support & encouragement as you have given me. Charles who is well known to most of you is currently National Chairman of the NFU Livestock Board, a long time Charollais breeder enjoying much success in the show ring, sale ring & performance recording, & will bring a wealth of knowledge & experience to the role, ably supported by his wife Helen.

2014 has in many ways been no less difficult than 2013. Ram sales have been to work for in a very competitive market which means we need to further capitalise on the easy lambing capabilities growth & muscling of the Charollais breed as well as presenting creditworthy sheep for sale. Good housekeeping has therefore been the order of the day. Return on bank investments has dwindled dramatically so on the advice of Jonathan our CEO Council have through a reputable stockbroker invested some of our assets on the stock market, which has the potential to yield a far better return to benefit our Society.

Genotyping income & expenditure has been itemised gross as this service provided by the office has rapidly expanded to benefit our members with only a very small margin being taken to cover handling & currency exchange costs.

A major step forward in further streamlining Society operation is the adoption of the Grassroots Pedeweb database system which will help to place us in a stronger position through greater efficiency.

This brings us to the place where we finish our financial year with a small surplus as you will see from the figures, which means that with the current reasonably buoyant sheep market we can look forward to a more positive & successful year. Finally a special word of thanks must go to Carroll & Jonathan & all the office staff for their assistance over the years in helping me to fulfil this role.

8 - CHAROLLAIS TIMES APRIL 2015

ANNUAL REPORT & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS HEADING 2014 INCOMING RESOURCES Voluntary Income Donations, sponsorship and gift aid Subscriptions

Activities for generating funds Sale of promotional items Investment Income Interest and dividends received on investments Deposit account interest

Incoming resources from charitable activities Registration fees and flock registration Commission on sales Sale entry fees Year Book and other publications Genetic testing

Total incoming resources RESOURCES EXPENDED Costs of generating voluntary income Advertising and promotional expenses

2014 ÂŁ

2013 ÂŁ

BRITISH CHAROLLAIS SHEEP SOCIETY LTD

4,480 32,038 ______ 36,518

4,259 33,291 ______ 37,550

Limited by Guarantee 1341920 A Registered Charity 282757

1,141

1,380

1,651 1,995 _______ 3,646

4,917 ______ 4,917

87,933 18,517 30,836 22,285 18,698 _______ 178,269 _______ 219,574

88,180 16,155 32,012 17,220 3,667 ______ 156,483 ______ 200,330

22,246

8,109 1,744 19,880 8,451 17,093 _______ 55,277

7,511 1,289 16,862 8,715 2,916 ______ 37,293

84,255 2,189 557 2,103 _______ 89,104

82,200 1,739 287 3,943 ______ 88,169

Net expenditure Unrealised gains/losses on investment assets Net movement in funds

11,015 4,753 1,527 7,600 8,188 8,183 5,478 8,579 345 _______ 218,648 926 323 1249

11,890 5,778 1,560 7,600 8,477 5,238 5,927 6,861 320 ______ 201,359 (1,029) 76 (953)

TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD

308,933

307,684

Governance costs Management and administration Independent Examiners Fees Bank charges Depreciation of office equipment

Other resources expended Postage and telephone Printing and stationary Subscriptions Office and storage accommodation Motor and travelling Hotel and meal charges Office expenses Meeting expenses Sundry expenses

1.

To read the Notice convening the meeting.

2.

To receive apologies for absence.

3.

To approve the Minutes of the 36th Annual General Meeting.

4.

To receive the report of the Chairman 5. * To receive and, if approved, to adopt the Report and Financial Statement to 31st December 2014.

18,599

Charitable activities Show expenses Regional expenses Sale costs Yearbook, newsletter and other publications Genetic testing

NOTICE is hereby given that the thirty-seventh Annual General Meeting of the Society will be held at the Bedford Lodge Hotel, Newmarket at 4.30 pm on Friday 24th April for the following purposes:-

6.

To confirm the appointment of new Council of Management members and the National Chairman 7.

To re-appoint Messrs Argents as Auditors for the ensuing year and to authorise the Council of Management to fix their remuneration.

8.

To transact any other ordinary business of the Society.

By Order of the Council of Management

CARROLL BARBER Company Secretary

If you would like a full set of the Annual Report and Financial Statements, then please contact the office.

CHAROLLAIS TIMES APRIL 2015 - 9

HEADING SHOWS 2015 & HEALTH ISSUES MAJOR SHOWS 2015

SHORT TAIL DOCKING

Balmoral Show – 13th to 15th May Judge : Mr Cecil Thomas, show classes on Wednesday 13th May at 1.00 pm.

Refreshments after the classes.

We have received a letter from the Animal & Plant Health Agency asking us to draw all our members attention to the ‘Short docking of sheep tails’ legislation. They continue to receive evidence that the problem of short tail docking does still occur please can we make sure that this is not in Charollais Flocks.

Three Counties Show - 12th to 14th June Judge : Mr Kenton Foster, show classes on Friday 12th June at 9.00 am. Reception on Legislation requires that when sheep are docked, there is sufficient tail left to cover the anus of males the breed stand after judging. and the vulva of females. The tail needs to be long Royal Highland Show – 18th - 21st June Judge : Mr Jim Aiken, show classes will be held on Friday 19th June at 9.00 am.

Great Yorkshire Show - 14th - 16th July Judge : Mr Tom Greenfield, show classes will be held on Tuesday 14th July at 9.00 am. Cheese and Wine after the judging and Hog Roast in the evening.

Royal Welsh Show – 20th - 23rd July Judge : Mr Tim Prichard show classes will be held on Tuesday 21st July at 1.00 pm.

Reception on the Charollais Stand in the NSA building after the judging.

The Society sends out over 100 Champion Rosettes each year to local shows. These are awarded to the Best Exhibit of Charollais at these events.

enough to cover the anus and vulva as the lambs grow and conformation changes.

If you are in any doubt with regard to the length of tails of show sheep - we would urge breeders not to exhibit animals that might contravene this regulation.

The act of short-docking is a breach of cross compliance requirements and could have implications for a producer’s Basic Payment Scheme payment and income from other support schemes SO DO NOT TAKE THE RISK AND LEAVE TAILS LONG ENOUGH.

WARNING ON SCHMALLENBERG Schmallenberg has been identified in spring calving suckler herds in the South West, according to reports. Vet Keith Cutler from Endell Vet Group, said in the last two weeks he had seen about eight deformed calves from the Schmallenberg virus. He said other vets in the region had also reported suspect cases. Mr Cutler believed animals calving down now would have been infected at the backend of last year when they were mid-way through pregnancy.

Schmallenberg has not been widely reported in lambs this year and Mr Cutler hoped the infection period would have happened before ewes went to the tup.

“Spring lambers are only just starting down in the South West and if the challenge happened in October, it may have been before the ewes got pregnant.”

In light of this information we would suggest that breeders in risk areas consider their vaccination programme prior to mating this year.

Schmallenberg can have a devastating effect on a flock and is to be avoided if possible.

Farmers should speak to their vet and may consider serosurveillance of dams to identify whether they had been exposed to the virus.

10 - CHAROLLAIS TIMES APRIL 2015

NEW MEMBERS HEADING We are pleased to welcome the following new members to the Society in the later part of 2014 and early 2015. We hope that it will not be too long before you have the opportunity to meet other members at a Society event.

Please do contact the office or your Regional Chairman if there is any aspect of breeding Charollais that you would like to discuss. For some members this may be their first experience with pedigree sheep, so don’t be afraid to ask for help.

The Charollais Society prides itself on the friendly attitude of it’s members and a lack of elitism; so, however small or large your flock, please take an active part.

If we all work together the Charollais breed will continue it’s rise in popularity amongst lamb producers.

REGION 1

North of Scotland

Messrs B & C Gunn Murza WYM Murza Farm, Bower, Wick, Caithness, KW1 4TW

REGION 3

North of England

Miss Ellen Procter WYB West View House, Adgarley Farm, Stainton, Barrow In Furness, LA13 0NP Miss R Hetherington Covert House WYJ 5 Bridge Street, Birstall, Batley, W. Yorkshire, WF17 9AU Miss Sarah Simpson Foulshaw WKP Well Cottage, 2a Causeway End, Levens, Kendal LA8 8PN

REGION 4

East of England

Mr Rive Malik Smithfield WWS Smithfield Cottage, Crink Lane, Southwell, Notts NG25 0QH Mr Ben Packwood Welland Valley WYS PJ Haynes & Son, Meadow Farm, Thorpe Langton, Leceistershire LE16 7TS Mr S R Bowring Bowring WYT Fir Tree Farm, Clipstone Road, Edwinstowe, Notts NG21 9JG

REGION 5

Central England

Mr Tom Hadley Primrose WWU Orchard Rise, Little Cowarne, Bromyard, Herefordshire HR7 4RQ Mrs Elaine Pitt Thornbury WYP Ganderland Farm, Thornbury, Bromyard, Herefordshire HR7 4NG Mr Charlie Thomas Blue Crystal WWT The Gables, Urdimarsh, Marden, Herefordshire HR1 3HB

REGION 6

Wales

Mr G R Williams Treweren WWN Ty Newydd Farm, Gray, Bennybridge, Brecon LD3 8TL Mr R J Mills Harestreak WWP Blaenhirbant, Creuddyn Bridge, Nr. Lampeter, Ceredigion SA48 8BN Ms Tanya Rogers Glanhirin WWY Glanhirin, Elan Valley, Rhayader, Powys LD6 5HS Mr Ian G Evans Hafren WYD New House Farm, Fron Garthmyl, Montgomery SY15 6RY

Mr K P Williams Alltami WYG San Cugat, Mold Road, Buckley, Flintshire CH7 2NU Mr Edward Cookson Cookson WYL West Dudston Chirbury, Montgomery, Powys SY15 6UH Mr W & Mrs J Jones Bodyddon WWX Bodyddon Ucha, Llanfyllin, Powys SY22 5HT

REGION 7

South West England

Mr T Nancekivell Heatham WWZ Heatham Farm, Kilkhampton, Bude, Cornwall EX23 9RH Ms Laura Monk Saveock WYH Saveock Farm, Greenbottom, Truro, Cornwall TR4 8QR Mr John Edwards Delilea WYK Bowling Green Farm, Yarnscombe, Barnstaple, Devon EX31 3LW Mr & Mrs A Hodgson Geristavor WYN Pond Farm Bungalow, Cullompton, Devon EX15 1NF Mr Graham Harding Severnside WYR Ingst Hill Farm, Ingst, Olveston, Bristol BS35 4AP

REGION 8

Northern Ireland & Eire

Joshua Hamilton Killycopple WWV 108 Markethill Road, Collone, Co. Armagh BT60 1LF T & G Henderson Carrichue WYF 290 Clooney Road, Ballykelly, Limauady, Co. Londonderry BT49 9JE Mr David Cromie Ballynamagna XEF 34 Ballynamagna Road, Rathfriland, Co Down Northern Ireland BP34 5PB F Grimes & D Hill Grimes Hill WWR 41 Turnabarson Road, Pomeroy, Co. Tyrone, Northern Ireland BT70 2TP Ryan & Russell Kelly Carn WYA Carn Farm, 95 Rossdowney Road, Londonderry BT47 5SU Mr Gary Leonard Insclin WYE 80 Inisclin Road, Kesh, Co. Fermanagh BT95 8BQ Mr Trevor Rickey Piperhill WYC 251 Moorlough Road, Piperhill, Newtown Butler, BT92 8DN

CHAROLLAIS TIMES APRIL 2015 - 11

HEADING

REGIONAL REPORTS

WALES

CENTRAL REGION

FLOCK VISIT AND TRIMMING DAY

SOCIAL EVENING

Flock visit and trimming day on Saturday 16th May 2015 in conjuction with the central region courtesy of Jonathon and Janet Corbett, Wedderburn flock near Newent, Gloucestershire. Further details to follow nearer the event.

Booking for this event is essential.

FLOCK VISIT Flock visit to View the Bronwydd Flock courtesy of Emyr & Steph Hughes and Family on Sunday June 7th 2015 to be followed by a Sunday lunch (Menu to be forwarded in due course) and a meeting of Region 6.

Could those wishing to attend either event please contact Emyr Hughes on 07792443807 or info@bronwyddcharollais.co.uk

EAST OF ENGLAND The Eastern Region emerged from early lambing to meet at Greetham Golf centre for an interesting talk by Jonathan Guy of JG Animal Health, and a meal.

AGM AND TRIMMING DEMONSTRATION The next event will be the Eastern Region AGM which will be held on Sunday 12th April 2015 and will be hosted by Sarah Hinchley, Well Six Farm, Brockhurst, Ashover, Chesterfield, Derbyshire.

The region has also organised a trimming demonstration which will be held following the AGM. Carol Watson from the ‘A’ Team will lead this and give us the benefit of her trimming skills.

The Eastern Region is looking forward to seeing as many members as possible at the National AGM which is being held at Newmarket, and you still have a chance to buy raffle tickets.

Central Region – Charollais Times

See you at the National AGM 24/25/26 April in Newmarket.

A social evening was held in February at The Beckford Inn in Gloucester – a welcome break to meet with friends for a meal and discussion after the main lambing season and dark winter months.

RACING EVENING “Place your bets, place your bets” was the call to be heard in March as members filled 3 dining tables at Wolverhampton Racecourse for an evening meeting on the allweather track – whoops were to be heard when winners were backed, sighs when punters lost their bets and several groans of “almost” when their pick of the race was just pipped at the post.

After the races and a fantastic 3 course meal the members then rounded off with an evening of Madness (# tribute) on the dancefloor. Please visit our facebook page “Central Region Charollais Sheep” for news and to take a look at the photos of the regions events.

AGM AND TRIMMING DEMONSTRATION The 2015 Regional AGM will be held on 16th May at the Wedderburn Flock by kind permission of Jonathon and Janet Corbett. Details to circulated – the day will consist of a trimming demonstration/practical experience, flock visit and AGM. If you have any ideas for events or locations, then please contact: Jan Walton, Church Farm, Backford, Chester, CH2 4BE. Tel 01244 851705. Email:jan@wtms.biz .

young members from anywhere in country are welcome. as long as they contact myself of Stephen Hodgson at least a week before event so we can cater for them.

For trimming we can provide a lot of equipment to use and judging they just need themselves.

SOUTH-WEST ENGLAND With a good summer and autumn in the south West we had plenty of grass into December. This meant most of our members had good lambing percentages and healthy well covered ewes at lambing. Lambs have grown on well on the good quality forage made without rain. Pretty unusual in our part of the world!

Last month we enjoyed a skittles match with the SW Suffolks, preceded by a short meeting and followed by an excellent meal. It was enjoyed by all and a chance to catch up with friends and swap lambing stories.

John and Michelle Osbourne have kindly offered to host our summer gathering at Tobarn, Jacobstow, Nr Bude . All are welcome on June 21st , more details closer to the day.

We hope to see plenty of members for a BBQ and drinks at Devon County Show. Details will be posted on our Facebook page SOUTH WEST CHAROLLAIS SHEEP.

We will be having an informal meeting at the Jolly Roger, Carnevas, on Thursday evening June 4th followed by a meal. If you can’t make that then please join us for a Pasty and Cider in the Charollais tent at Royal Cornwall Show after showing has finished.

Showing season will soon be on For Region 3 we have planned a us, starting with Easter Prime Open Day on the late May bank Stock . If you can, please try to holiday, Monday 25th May. We are support your local shows by going to have a trimming day and entering your sheep. Remember youngsters judging some sheep. you will be advertising your own There will be food and we will flock and your breed. decide what price tickets are at our April meeting. Any new or

NORTH OF ENGLAND

12 - CHAROLLAIS TIMES APRIL 2015