CLUBS

Grit, determination and patience pay off as family shoots for EX stars

Rachael Porter catches up with the current owners of a Northern Ireland herd which has gone through a major transformation since it was founded by the Paul family 70 years and three generations ago

Slatabogie Holsteins has quite a history, dating back to a commercial hand-milked herd founded in 1951 by Robert Paul.

Today’s herd, based at Maghera in County Londonderry, is a far cry from that one – and from the herd that was being milked by Robert’s grandsons Alan and Bryan, with help from their father, William, back in 2007.

And not just due to its size or the management system. The pair also had to start with a clean slate in term of bloodlines when Brucellosis forced the family to cull what had grown into a 230-cow pedigree

Milkers bed down on comfortable mats

herd, plus 300 followers, almost 15 years ago. “Heifers were being reared under contract, off farm, and that’s how the disease got into the herd,” says Alan, adding that the disease also wiped out two herds either side of their unit. “It was a terrible time and we were obviously absolutely gutted.” Being a pedigree herd certainly helped when it came to compensation. “Milk price was low at the time – just 16.5ppl – so commercial cow and heifer prices weren’t so good. We saw slightly more financial compensation, but it was still a huge blow. We were really ‘sick’ about it and didn’t have the heart to go back into dairy for 10 years.” “We did flush some of our best cows prior to the cull,” explains Alan. “But our efforts didn’t produce any heifer calves as we used conventional semen. We were particularly keen to continue the successful cow families. But everything’s gone.” The Paul family’s 60-hectare unit had to remain stock-free for six months after the cull. Alan and Bryan did seriously consider buying an entire 150-cow (11,500kg herd) in England, which was up for sale in 2008. “And we were about to book a flight to go and view the herd when the producer called to say the herd had gone down with TB. So that was a non-starter. I guess it just wasn’t meant to be.”

On a positive note, rebuilding the herd from scratch gave Alan and his new wife Leanne, who likes red cows, the opportunity to do things completely differently. “The previous pedigree herd was graded up from cow families that go back 30 years, including Ballycairn Patricia. There were a handful of really special cows in the herd, but our aim now is to have a herd full of elite cattle.”

In the interim, Alan set up a pregnancy scanning business – something he still does on a parttime basis today. And Bryan started a steel fabrication business – but he still has a few select cows and a keen interest in the herd. The family bought in some beef cattle and began contract-rearing heifers,

Part of the milking herd at Slatabogie

to make use of the farm’s grassland and buildings and generate an income stream.

“My father, Bryan and I also invested in an anaerobic digester and, more recently, a drying plant for shavings and timber. This uses excess heat generated by the AD plant,” explains Alan.

Alan also had a plan to get back into dairying and to take the opportunity to do it differently. “I knew I wanted to milk fewer but higher-genetic merit cows. I wanted lots of milk – some 100-tonners – but I also wanted cows that perform well in the showring.” In early 2008, a Holstein sale in Ireland caught his eye – there were a few catalogue entries that interested him. One in particular, a red calf, really captivated him and he bought her for 10,000 euro. From the August cow family, Cannontown Kite August Red, was by Markwell Kite. “And we thought we’d flush her and see what we got,” says Alan. Flushing wasn’t a success, unfortunately, but she did produce two heifers and certainly helped to build strong cow-family foundations in the herd. She classified EX93 and completed nine lactations. Two daughters classified EX90 and EX94 and are still milking, as are some of her other daughters and granddaughters. Other cow families were bought in, a mixture of milking cows and heifers, from a dispersal sale at Moree Holsteins. “These have done extremely well. We’ve classified 11 EX cows, all bought from that sale.” The Pauls also bought four heifer calves from the ALH Homesale in The Netherlands. These have all scored VG88 and VG 89 as second calvers and descend from cow families including KHW Regiment Apple Red, Roxy, Kamps Hallow Altitude, and Stookey Fagin. Other top cow families bought in include Ashlyn, Baler Twine, Chipper Rosie, Cosmopolitan, Fools Gold, Gem, Jodie, Pietje and Twizzle. The Pauls began milking today’s all-year-round calving, 90-cow herd in mid-2019. “So we’ve not really begun to see the real potential of the bloodlines in the herd – the cows and heifers are still very young. But we’re excited about the performance we’re going to see in the next two or three years.” He’s also purchased embryos from the US and the Netherlands. “And these heifers – Kandie and Swetie Pie – have just calved for the first time. So again, we’re eager to see how they perform. I’d had my eye on those high-type cow families for a while and I hope they don’t disappoint.” The Pauls are partial to red-andwhite Holsteins and are using many red-carrier sires on the herd. “The herd is currently split 50:50 in terms of red-and-white and black-andwhite cattle. We are happy with that. There’s no performance difference between them. I just like the look of the red-and-whites – as does my wife Leanne. They are perhaps a little more ‘feisty’ too, but that’s no bad thing.” The herd, which is currently averaging 11,673kg of milk at 4.10% butterfat and 3.35% protein, is housed 24/7 and milked through two Lely robots. There’s capacity to push numbers up to 120 head and that’s certainly the plan – using home-bred replacements. “We also took the time out of dairying to reappraise our system,” explains Alan. “We’ve always pushed for high yields and, prior to losing the herd in 2007, we were milking three times a day. But there were always issues with staffing and it was a tough job. Robots mean the cows are now being milked, on average, 3.1 times a day. “Some cows visit the robot to be milked four or five times a day. Sourcing labour is no longer an issue and automating milking has also freed up time to focus on breeding and other areas of dairy management,” says Alan. When it comes to breeding, Alan and Leanne select sires with balanced type, as well as good butterfat and protein. “We’re looking for good udders, feet and legs. And we also began considering PLI about 18 months ago. I think it helps to keep our options open and may help when it comes to selling surplus heifers, which we will be doing at some point in the future.”

The pairs AI flask typically contains many different sires at any one time, a mixture of black-and-white and red-and-white bulls. “And all are sexed – we only want to breed heifers to maximise the rate of genetic gain and produce as many replacements are possible.” The Pauls are currently serving red and white cows and heifers with mainly red and red-carrier bulls. Black and white cows and heifers are then bred to black and white sires.

Red-and-white sires include Absolute, Jordy, Ranger, Rubels and Willows. Black-and-white sires include Barolo, Chief, Lambda and Unix.

There are heifers on the ground by Axel Red, Crimson, Doral Red, Hurricane, Manana Red, Rubicon Shield Red and Skywalker. Followers currently number 200 head and the Pauls are still gradually expanding the milking herd. “But once we get up to 120 cows we will start to sell surplus heifers, probably through pedigree markets.”

Alan’s also invested in a top Hurricane heifer, in partnership with David Macfee and Morell McCollum. Boghir Glamour Hurricane Carlin D classified VG89 as a two-year-old and has just produced 20,000kg of milk in her second 305-day lactation. She won best in show as a heifer at the Royal Ulster Winter Fair in 2019 and was also the number two TPI heifer in the world, as well as being the top Hurricane daughter. Carlin D has been flushed many times and, despite her young age, one of her sons – SBG Mecca – is about to be launched to market as a genomic sire. “She’s an extremely exciting cow to have a half-share in and it’s a pleasure to have her in our milking herd,” says Alan. Her full sister, Carlin C, is also milking in the herd, is part of the SBG Partnership and is about to calve for the second time. “We’ve also flushed her and she’s a tremendous cow. But she is overshadowed by Carlin D.”

Alan makes adjustments to the anaerobic digester

Alan says there are Carlin daughters and grand-daughters milking in quite a few herds already, due to ET work and genomic technology. “Both are leaving a lasting and impressive mark on the herds.”

And he’s hoping they’ll also make an impression in the show-ring. Showing is something the family did back in the 2000s, prior to losing the original pedigree herd. “We once won a class with a heifer at the Royal Ulster Winter Fair, but nothing huge. We enjoyed it. It was a social experience and also a shop window for a herd that we were trying to put on the Holstein breeding map.”

Sawdust drying is an off-shoot enterprise that makes use of excess heat from the anaerobic digester

Manana August Red was crowned Senior Heifer Champion. “So we had a good show. The icing on the cake was that our boys took fourth, fifth and sixth place in the under-13s Showmanship class. They like showing calves – the whole family is keen,” says Alan, adding that 16-month-old daughter Arianna is destined to join in once she’s a little older.

Classification is also important to Alan. It’s something he did with the original pedigree herd and began again recently. “The Classifier visited in November 2021 and again in January. They’re scheduled to come two or three times a year and it’s certainly something we look forward to.”

Showing is now firmly on his dairying calendar – particularly the two major shows in Northern Ireland. “It’s part of our plan to ‘get back out there’ and show our quality stock. It’s our shop window,” says Alan. The Paul family started showing at the Royal Ulster Winter Fair and Balmoral Show in 2019. “We can’t go further afar due to travel restrictions, but would be keen to go across the water in future if we had the chance.”

The family had success at Balmoral in September 2021 with an Ayrshire heifer. Eight-month-old heifer Slatabogie Hector Alice was crowned Ayrshire Heifer Champion. Leanne, Alan and their three young sons – Cody, Jamie and Dylan – took 14 cattle to the Royal Ulster Winter Fair in December and, again, the same heifer won her class and was crowned Champion.

Alan and Leanne have enjoyed ring success at both the Royal Winter Fair and the Balmoral Show

They also took 13-month-old senior heifer Slatabogie Upstopabull Rosie to the show and she also won her class. And 28-month-old Slatabogie

Good-scoring calves are vital to Alan’s plans

Red-and-whites make up half the herd numbers. ‘I just like the look of them,’ says Alan

He says it’s also important to keep pedigrees up to date – and complete. “It allows us to see the progress we’re making and also offers a more complete picture to any potential buyers.” There are currently 27 EX, 40 VG and 10 GP cows in the herd.

Classification also helps to fuel Alan and Bryan’s passion for pedigree breeding. The brothers pushed to upgrade the herd back in the late 1980s.

“Dad enjoyed dairying, but ran a commercial herd. We have always been more interested in breeding and top-quality cattle. We wanted to work towards increasing milk yields, and breeding bigger, better and higher-value cows. I don’t know where it comes from – it’s just in me,” he says. And these are goals that still ring true today. “I’m looking forward to seeing how the herd matures – it’s still so young and many cows and heifers are yet to realise their potential. I think they’ll last for many lactations and give a lot of milk. And many are expected to be classified EX. I’m also hoping that many will become 100-tonners – we are breeding for high yields and longevity. “There are certainly 15-16 cows and heifers currently producing between 15,000 litres and 16,000 litres per 305-day lactation. They’re on track to hit the 100-tonne lifetime production milestone. So, our patience is paying off and we have plenty to look forward to.”

Eager calves jostle for space at the feeder

Alan checks over some of the dry and recipient cows at Slatabogie

Farm facts

• 60-hectare dairy unit • 500kW anaerobic digestion plant • Altitude: 200 metres above sea level • Annual rainfall: 150mm • Soil type: heavy clay

Herd facts

• 90 Holsteins, plus 200 followers • Holstein average yield: 11,673 litres at 4.10% butterfat and 3.35% protein. • All-year-round calving • Robotic milking, all-year-round housed and fed a TMR

Influential sires

Absolute Red Avatar Red Cheerful Red Ranger Red Rubels Red Unstopabull Red Solito Red Willows Red Army RC Barolo Chief Hurricane Lambda Pepper Unix Renegade

Cow families

Ashlyn August Baler Twine Kandie Chipper Rosie Cosmopolitan Fool’s Gold Gem Jodie Kamps Hallow Altitude KHW Regiment Apple Red Pietje Rosie Roxy Stookey Fagin Swetiepie Twizzle

Slatabogie Holstein classifications

27 EX 40 VG 10 GP

Around the Country

South East

The South East Club took a full team of qualified calves and handlers to Peterborough for the All-Britain Calf Show. As the smallest club competing, it was a great achievement to gain Reserve Champion in the tidy lines competition. In the showmanship all our leaders did an amazing job with a high of 12th place for Alfie Dyer. Calves were presented in great form with Holben Racy from Holben Holsteins gaining fifth prize in the AugustSeptember class and Designer Unstoppable Elegance coming sixth for Designer Holsteins in the AprilMay class. Sadly, in early September, members and friends had to say goodbye to Neil Francis taken early from us at 63. Neil and his family developed the Broadford herd over many years enjoying much success at local shows and our Club Herd Competitions. The funeral, held at Woodbarn Farm, Broadford Bridge, West Sussex, where Neil lived all his life, was a fitting tribute to a life well lived - not only a very talented stockman, but also as sportsman and chorister. Indeed the choir that Neil sang in finished the service off in fine style followed by Benny Hill singing Ernie. The Club sends its deepest condolences to Neil’s wife Sheila, and children Chris, John and Becky, who gave a beautiful tribute to Neil. The club will return to competitions with our Winter herd competitions in March 22.

Our Winter meeting will be on Wednesday 16th February, when we will welcome Joe Ives of the Gladwake herd, RABDF Gold Cup finalists, to talk to us. This will be a very informative evening to be held at the South of England Showground at Ardingly, West Sussex.

Yorkshire

The Yorkshire Club recently held its annual dinner. With the herd competition results announced earlier in the year, it left more of the evening to socialise. However two trophies were presented at what is considered the end-of-term get-together. The Thornton Trophy, presented to the herd with most points for competing at the Club Calf Show and the Great Yorkshire Show returned to the 2019 winners Crystalclear. Also presented was the Robin Cowgill Award, presented to a HYB member who has represented the club to high standard in both ability and attitude. This year’s winner was Stella Chapman from the Huntholme herd.

Stella has had a brilliant year in HYB taking part in many events and always doing her best. Frances Mellor presented the award on behalf of Jenny Cowgill. Frances will be stepping down from her role as Yorkshire Co-Ordinator, following her marriage and move to Derbyshire. The new co-ordinators will be Richard Green and Ben Coates.

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Isle of Man

Calf And Calf Handlers Show

Handler Classes

Beginners (Eight years and under) – Mannanan Cup

1st George Hampton

Juniors (12 years & under) – Ronague Cup

1st Cal Oates

2nd Bobby Cowin 3rd Lauren Collister

4th Andrew Cooil

Intermediate (aged 13-15) – Mrs J F Ussher Shield

1st Alec Masson

2nd Isobel Qualtrough 3rd Caitlyn McKeown

Senior (aged 16-20) – W & J Pye Ltd Shield

1st Rhian Masson

Mature (aged 21-27) – R C Kermeen Cup

1st Kayleigh Masson

Champion – Isle of Man Friesian

Breeders Trophy: Alec Masson

Reserve Champion – Corrin Cup:

Kayleigh Masson Honourable Mention – Rhian Masson

Calf Classes

Born 1st December 2020 to 31st January 2021 – Isle of Man Farmers Ltd Cup

1st Sandash Farms, Sandash Wavelength Joy 2nd Sandash Farms, Sandash Ardor Nellie

3rd Sandash Farms, Sandash Wavelength Mary

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Born 1st October to 30th November 2020 – Lordli Jill Trophy

1st Ballacricket Farm Ltd, Cairbre Sidekick Honeybee 2nd Sandash Farms, Sandash Sangria Mandy

Born between 1st August to 30th September 2020 – Paul Clelland Memorial Cup

1st Ballacricket Farm Ltd, Cairbre Sidekick Lily 2nd Sandash Farms, Sandash Goodwhone Lark 2

Champion: Cairbre Sidekick Honeybee Reserve Champion: Sandash Wavelength Joy Honourable Mention: Sandash Ardor Nellie

IOM Champion Calf, Cairbre Sidekick Lily

Two young handlers, Andrew Cooil and George Hampton IOM Champion Handler, Alec Masson

Staffordshire

Planning is underway for a stockjudging competition early summer, a linear evening and the June 2022 Summer Herd Competition. The Dinner and Dance will move to the Staffordshire Showground on Friday 25th February – contact Isobelle for tickets.

The Club plans to hold its qualifying calf show at Staffordshire County Showground on Sunday 18th September, after the success of 2019. In 2020 it was held at the County Show as a one-off event. The HYB had a very successful ABAB weekend with a full team at the event. Well done to all the handlers and congratulations to Junior Handler Joe Kirkham who finished in sixth position and Senior Handler Peter Cotton who was seventh.

The calves from Staffordshire were outstanding and the results very impressive

Calf Born between 1st April &

31st May 2021 – Stowey Monopoly Danielle Red ET, Mackellar & Creeper, 7th.

Calf Born between 1st February

& 31st March 2021 – Astonpool Stroke of Art, Astonpool Holsteins, 8th.

Calf Born between 1st October &

30th November 2020 –Astonpool B Denver Lynn, Astonpool Holsteins, 8th.

Calf Born between 1st June &

31st July 2020 – Barmick CR Amy 3, M P & B J Hollins & Son, 5th.

George and Bronte, Staffordshire’s youngest members, keeping the stand in order

Calf Born between 1st April &

31st May 2020 – Barmick Crushtime Dacis 24, M P & B J Hollins & Son, 10th.

Red & White Calf Born between 1st November 2020 & 31st May

2021 – Stowey Monopoly Danielle Red ET, Mackellar & Creeper, 9th.

Red & White Calf Born between 1st April & 31st October 2020 –

Nonstop Warrior Shelby Red, 10th. Isobelle Robinson

Joe got his first taste of show handling at ABAB 2021

North Wales Holstein Club Celebrates 25th Anniversary

Before the formation of the North Wales British Friesian Breeders Club in spring 1996, any members of the then BFCS, were affiliated to the North Western Club with leading individuals Emrys Owen (Eryri), W J Evans (Coron) along with RV Jones & Son (Rhydydelyn) and Wyn Pritchard (Henlli) representing the area. Mr Emrys Owen initiated the forming of a North Wales club whilst member of the North Western Committee; the fruition of which came about through Philip Davies (Gornal) and Harri Evans (Ceinwen) both of whom served as Board Members for North Wales. On 7th March at Carreg Y Bran Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, the North Wales British Friesian Breeders Club was created with Melfyn Williams from Betws yn Rhos appointed Club Secretary. Mr A A Fernihough and Mr J Barnett of the North Western Club presented the new club with a Chairman`s gavel.

Club Highlights

• Inaugural open day on 28th August 1996, held by Mrs Menna

Owen & Sons, Llwydfaen Farm. A demonstration was given by the then YMA Co-ordinator and now Holstein UK CEO,

Sue Cope. • In 1999, we held our first Herd Competition. • Became one of the first clubs to adopt “Holstein” in its name following the merger of BFCS and BHS. • Philip Davies and family won the 2001 Premier Breeder Herd

Award. • Ceinwen Bonze from Harri and Margaret Evans herd in

Rhosbadrig, became the first cow to achieve 10 generations of EX. • HYB Members Osian Rhys (Hendy) and Alun Jones (Rhydydelyn) competed at the 2002 Royal Show and won the Junior Linear Competition. • The club has held numerous calf shows, initially at Ruthin Auction

Centre before moving to Groudd Hall Cerrigydrudion, Aberogwen

Llandegai and over several years at Cae Morfa Clynnog. • The Judge at the first Calf Show was John Pickford, owner of Condon Sharon, dam of Picston Shottle. • The mating to produce Shottle was a Breeders Choice included Michael George (Brynhyfryd), Ian Montgomery and Philip Davies (Gornal). • Aled Jones (Hendy) is part of the Regional Judges Panel • Mr W J Williams (Clwch) achieved the 2020 Master Breeder Award • Hosted the Centenary HYB Rally 2009. • Philip Davies, Melfyn Williams, Harri Evans, Bill Lloyd and Peter Lewis MBE have also seen their contributions acknowledged by being awarded Life Membership of the club. • Numerous trips to Ireland, Scotland and Norfolk. The Club continues to provide a platform for youngsters to learn skills and develop their talents which is a fitting tribute to the vision of the individuals who were involved in creating the club 25 years ago. HYB members have obtained much through their involvement going on to careers both within Agriculture and outside: • Larissa Jones, who entered her calf in the first show at Ruthin, is now a Regional Manager with Genus ABS. • Gwen Jones (Mon) is a special constable studying for a degree in Policing. • Dafydd Jones (Meinel and Goldstar) is training to be an opera singer at The Royal College of Music.

President: Ifan Evans, Erw Fawr Treasurer: A Jones, Hendy

Secretary: Dyfrig Hughes

Northern Ireland

There was an excellent turn-out of members, friends and guests at Holstein Northern Ireland’s 22nd annual dinner and presentation of awards, held in Ballymena. Club Chairman Iain McLean extended a warm welcome. “We didn’t have a dinner last year due to the pandemic, but I am very pleased that we were able to host the event this year. I’d like to welcome our guests, and thank everyone who has made the effort to support the dinner,” he said

Guests included Holstein UK President John Jamieson, and his wife Helen, from Dumfries; Irish Holstein Friesian Association President P J Kelly, and his wife Anne, from County Westmeath; and Holstein NI President James Walker, and his wife Margaret. During his address Iain McLean said the club was going from strength to strength. “It is encouraging to note that a dozen new members have joined Holstein NI since September.” He went on to give a résumé of the club’s activities throughout the year. Amy Reynolds from Friends of the Cancer Centre and Brian Madden from Teen Challenge Belfast, attended the dinner and were delighted to receive cheques for £14,250 each. Both spoke briefly about the charities they represent, and expressed their gratitude for Holstein NI’s generous donation. The money was raised at the club’s inaugural online charity auction, held in conjunction with a BBQ to present the awards for the annual Herds Inspection Competition. Guest speaker for the evening was David Radcliffe from North Antrim, who talked about his life and battle with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a very rare type of cancerous tumour affecting bones and surrounding soft tissue. He is a fundraiser for the Boom Foundation, a charity founded in 2013 which supports patients diagnosed with the disease, and their families.

The Matthews family from the Lisnasure herd donated an artisan food hamper. Proceeds from a guessthe-value-of-the-hamper competition, and raffle, raised £1,560 for the Boom Foundation. The winner of the hamper was John Barkley from Ballymena. Iain McLean concluded by thanking the Matthews family, and everyone who donated prizes for the raffle.

Guest speaker David Radcliffe receives a cheque for £1,560 on behalf of the Boom Foundation, from Holstein NI Chairman Iain McLean and Secretary/ Treasurer John Martin.

The McLean family from the Priestland herd, Bushmills – Iain, Joyce, John, Matthew, Ellie, April and Arthur – collected an array of silverware

Holstein NI Chairman Iain McLean, and his wife Joyce, welcome Irish Holstein Friesian Association President P J Kelly, and his wife Anne, to the club’s 22nd annal dinner

Holstein NI President James Walker, and his wife Margaret, welcome Holstein UK President John Jamieson, and his wife Helen, to the club’s 22nd annual dinner in Ballymena

£28,500 charity donation

Holstein NI’s charity BBQ and Auction in July raised £28,500 for Friends of the Cancer Centre and Teen Challenge Belfast. The money was divided equally between the nominated charities, and the cheques were presented at the club’s annual dinner, held in Ballymena. Pictured, front row, from left: Holstein NI Chairman Iain McLean; with Brian Madden, Teen Challenge Belfast; and Amy Reynolds, Friends of the Cancer Centre. Looking on, from left: Holstein UK President John Jamieson; Holstein NI President James Walker and John Martin, Secretary and Treasurer of Holstein NI.

Holstein NI would like to thank everyone who contributed to the success of the charity auction, especially the Annaghmore, Priestland and Relough herds who donated pedigree calves, and the numerous local businesses and agricultural companies who pledged items for the auction. Thanks also to Livestock Live and auctioneer Trevor Wylie, and Dungannon Rugby Club for the use of its excellent facilities.

Cornwall

Recent months have been busy, with the young members as always doing the whole membership proud by working hard and representing Cornwall in a positive light at the ABAB calf show. All calves exhibited finished in the top 12. It was the first time since 2006 that a whole team of handlers attended the National Calf Show. The On Farm Challenge attracted over 116 entries. A huge thank you to Judge Denis O’Neil, Chief Steward Lynden Bustard and Dawn Coryn for their organisation. The Club is extremely grateful to principal sponsors Mole Valley Feed Solutions as well as all other backers. Class 1 (9 forward). Calf exhibited

by HYB Member (Sponsored by Folk2Folk) –

1st Racewood Royalcush Zandra, Steven Harris 2nd Elmford Plover Red 261, Harry Neale 3rd Racewood Doorman Dellia, Cari Thomas Class 2a (12 forward). Junior Heifer

(Sponsored by Holstein UK) –

1st Whitsand 884 Pepper Myra, P D & S K Blake 2nd Glebewin Jazz May, M F & C A Smale 3rd Castlezens Dreamer Gertie 2, D G & J C Berridge

Best Heifer in Show (Lorna Cross

Tankard) – Winner: Whitsand 884 Pepper Myra; Reserve: Glebewin Rambler. Genetic Award: Laram Bloomfield Hanna, Mitchell Family Class 2b (9 forward). Senior Heifer

(Sponsored by Holstein UK) –

1st Apricot Flame Una, M Mitchell & H Downing 2nd Panda Fish and Chips Foolsgold, Will Neale (Best Udder) 3rd Cloudbreak Cardinals Cora, D & L Rawsthorn Class 3a (12 forward). Junior Second

Calf (Sponsored by Semex UK) –

1st Sterndale Lambda Mae, The Mitchell Family 2nd Racewood Hurricane Lofty, Racewood Holsteins (Best Udder) 3rd Howsham Mozarella Rumba, Greenfield Farms Class 3b (12 forward). Senior Second

Calf (Sponsored by World Wide Sires UK) –

1st Cloudbreak Mozarella Violet, D & L Rawsthorn (Best Udder) 2nd Kitcham Jangle 80, C & C Budge 3rd Kitcham Miranda 49, C & C Budge Class 4 (16 forward). Cow having

three calves (Sponsored by Cogent Breeding Ltd) –

1st Racewood Windbrook Ambrosia, Racewood Holsteins 2nd Mabec MVP Jubilee, James Warren (Best Udder) 3rd Penberlan Moss, B M & A M Bennett Racewood Windbrook Ambrosia went on to win the Ella Laity Perpetual Cup for Champion animal, with a prize sponsored by CIS, the best Exhibitor-Bred Animal sponsored by Cornish Mutual as well as Racewood Holsteins winning the Smale Family Shield for Premier Exhibitor and a prize sponsored by MDS. Mabec MVP Jubilee won the Pam Coryn Rose Bowl for the Best Udder in Show; this special prize was sponsored by Kernow Farm Vets. Class 5 (13 forward). Cow having

had four calves (Sponsored by Genus ABS) –

1st Whitsand Goodwhone Cleo 3, P D & S K Blake (Best Udder) 2nd Penberlan Shottle Loralyn 2, B M & A M Bennett 3rd Kitcham Daisey 36, C & C Budge Class 6 (10 forward). Cow having

had five calves (Sponsored by UK Sires Direct) –

1st Castlezens Goodwhone Aniseed, D C & J C Berridge (Best Udder) 2nd Glebegray Stanleycup Sieglinde 18, G G Smale & Son 3rd Trewirgie Ravine Q Rebecca, W R, C M & S R Davey Castlezens Goodwhone Aniseed went on to be Honourable Mention animal of the show, as well as Honourable Mention Exhibitor-Bred animal. Class 7 (11 forward). Cow having

had six calves or more (Sponsored by Alta Genetics UK) –

1st Glebegray Duplex Skybird 147, G G Smale & Son (Best Udder) 2nd Paydon Artes Faye – M F & C A Smale 3rd Landulph Matson Ella – Best Farm Partnership Glebegray Duplex Skybird 147 went on to be Reserve Champion animal, Reserve Best Exhibitor-Bred animal sponsored by Cornish Mutual as well as the Smale family winning Reserve Premier Exhibitor sponsored by MDS.

Red and white in-milk heifer

or cow (9 forward). Sponsored by

Mastergen Ltd –

1st Elmford Shirley Red 270, Will Neale 2nd Racewood RedHot Roxy, Racewood Holsteins 3rd Trewirgie Berlin Lulu Red, W R, C M & S R Davey (Best Udder) Our members have also been successful outside the show-ring with Willsbro Holsteins winning Dairy Farm of the Year at the South West Farmer Awards and Gemma SmaleRowland winning the Outstanding Achievement Award.

South & Wiltshire

Over the autumn months we saw our HYB members return to the showring with our National Qualifier. We then saw a small but amazing team made up off George, Peyton and Katie go to the All Breeds All Britain Calf Show. Then the HYB members again took to the ring at The Dairy Show in the South.

In November we welcomed Abi Reader to entertain our members with her talk ‘Telling the Farming Story’. We now look forward to a fuller events calendar for 2022, with our Club Winter Herd Competition in early February and AGM on Monday 2nd March.

The Club is delighted to announce the safe arrival of George Clarke on the 25th November, a son for Sam Clarke (Westleaze Holsteins) and his partner Jade, and a baby brother to big sister Aubrey. At the other end of the age scale, members wished long-standing Holstein UK member Tom White a happy 100th birthday, a milestone he reached on Christmas Day. Tom was born at Bayton Hill Farm, Tinhead, the son of a farmworker. The family moved to Corsham, Wiltshire, after obtaining the tenancy of Thingley Court Farm, Corsham around 1922. In 1954 the family purchased the neighbouring Thingley Farm. Tom, along with his wife Betty, kept two herds until 1975 when the cows

George Clarke at Thingley Farm were dispersed. Together, they continued breeding their Thingley herd until 1994 when they decided that the time was right to let go of their beloved herd. Tom now lives in Corsham near family and friends.

Tom is a cherished member of the South and Wiltshire Holstein Club. Last spring, members were delighted to make a surprise presentation to Tom of a Holstein UK Club award.

Tom continues to be a very active member of the club – Congratulations Tom, a very welldeserved award!

Tom White, South & Wiltshire Club’s centenarian, receives a well-deserved Club award

Norfolk

Despite a much-reduced programme in 2021, the Norfolk Club did hold two qualifying competitions for national events.

The Herd Competition was held in June with Andrew Stafford kindly acting as Judge. Seven herds entered.

The Airfield herd was the Senior Herd winner and the Mowles herd, a first-time entrant won the Junior section.

Star Cow was Airfield History Starlight while the RML Cow winner was Easthaugh Roxy. The homebred heifer prize was taken by Airfield Impression Exquisite, while Airfield also won the female family competition with the Angie Family. The Progeny Group was won by K L Humphreys & Son and the Red and White Cow by W Case’s Binham Messiah Lily Red. The Norfolk All-Breed Calf Show was held in October as part of the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association’s Harfest Celebrations. This was the qualifier for the East Anglian Team for the National, 17 handlers and 35 calves took part. James Strachan, Rapid Bay, judged. James had won the Handling Trophy several times in the past and was pleased to see his name and also his sister, Katherine’s, on the trophy as past winners. His judging was much appreciated by everyone, especially as he took time to speak to all the handlers and offer advice and encouragement. The Junior class had competitors aged three to 12 and was won by Arlo Atkins representing Wigboro herd. Intermediate handler winner was Charlie Bolderston whilst Robyn Mood was Senior handler and Claire Cletheroe took the Mature prize. Champion handler was Claire Cletheroe, with Georgina Moody taking Reserve and Robyn Moody Honourable Mention.

The Designer team took the Champion, Reserve and Honourable Mention calves with Designer Crushabull Adrienne, Panda Unique Cheerleader Red and Designer Unstopabull Elegance, in respective order.

Any Other Breed Champion was a Jersey Kinder Engineer Gypsy and an Ayrshire Boldstar Napier Bean 2 Reserve.

Many thanks to all those who have supported these events with sponsorship and help in any way. We are hoping to have an expanded programme in 2022.

Derbyshire

There was a night of celebration at the Annual Dinner and Presentation night in October at The Bentley Brook Hotel.

Summer Competition – Judge Mr John Hollingworth (Derbyshire) Best Summer Bull Progeny

Group (Honeycroft Cup) – H Dutton Ltd (Royan), Val Bisson Doorman

Best Heifer on Index (J Bibby

Cup) – Easom & Sons (Broomhouse), B Jaguar Treat 6541, PLI 486

Summer Home-Bred Heifer, Inspection only (Fleetford Cup)

– W Bunting & Co (Alsopledale), Alsopledale Silver Jeanette

Highest Yielding Cow, Summer (Andrew & Edith Dutton Cup)

– W Bunting & Co (Alsopledale), Alsopledale Samuelo Contented, 1,119kg

Summer Home-Bred Cow, Inspection only (Pauls

Agriculture Cup) – E R Herridge & Son (Ilam), Ilam Tyro Kathleen 3

3 x 60-Tonne Cows (Bayles and

Wylie Trophy) – T H Flower & Sons (Havendale)

Best Small Herd, Inspection only (William & Rachel Bunting Cup)

– D J Metcalf & Co (Leascarr)

Best Small Herd on Inspection & Production (National

Westminster Bank Cup) – D J Metcalf & Co (Leascarr)

Best Intermediate Herd, Inspection only (BOCM Pauls Cup)

– W Bunting & Co (Alsopledale)

Best Intermediate Herd on Inspection & Production

(ForFarmers Cup) – W Bunting & Co (Alsopledale)

Best Large Herd, Inspection only

(Herdwise Trophy) – T H Flower & Sons (Havendale)

Best Large Herd on Inspection

& Production (Solney Cup) – T H Flower & Sons (Havendale)

Best All-Round Herd of the Year

– (Lambwell Trophy) – W Bunting & Co (Alsopledale), 24 points (five classes won)

Best Herd on Inspection & Production (Eaton & Hollis Cup) –

W Bunting & Co (Alsopledale)

Best Herd on Inspection Only

(Wolverley Salver) – W Bunting & Co (Alsopledale) All HYB members were presented with their certificates from competitions they had entered

Derbyshire’s 2021 trophy winners throughout the year as well as The Best Presented Large Stand, Reserve Champion Overall Stand, and Second Club’s Choice Stand, all won at the ABAB Calf Show.

The Winter Herd Competition takes place in mid-February – contact Richard Ford (email Richard.Ford@ masseyfeeds.co.uk or telephone 07968 529332) – new entrants welcome.

Huge congratulations go to member Bill Nadin for winning the Holstein UK Lifetime Achievement Award.

Bill started farming back in 1960 with his uncle and grandmother when he left school at Fernydale Farm, Earl Sterndale, Buxton and in 1971 he took over the 40-acre tenancy where 300 acres are now farmed. After the sale at Sterndale in the summer, Bill is now hoping to take things easier and hand over to his grandson Ben Mycock who is keen to see the Sterndale prefix flourish. Bill is well known for his breeding in the Holstein world and also the success in the show-ring along with the help of partner Yasmin Bradbury. Along the way, Bill and Yasmin have been a great support to the club, especially its HYB section and the young members, hosting events and allowing members to help to show their calves.

Bill Nadin – winner of the Holstein UK Lifetime Achievement Award

John Poynter of the Fleetford herd passed suddenly on 5th September this year.

John and Anne Poynter met at Broomfield College in Derbyshire in the early 1960s. Though neither of them came from farming backgrounds, working on local farms had left them both with a keen desire to become dairy farmers.

The young Anne Needham first started milking her own cows at The Boat, a pub kept by her parents and frequented by John Poynter. In 1964 they were married and bought Callow Carr Farm, near Wirksworth. It is difficult to imagine a less typical dairy farm – Callow Carr was a tangle of steep gradients, woodland and the occasional bog. The house was a virtual wreck and the farm had few buildings to speak of; the neighbours all thought they were mad, but when did that ever stop the enthusiastic? Over the next 40 years John and Anne built up a herd that was incredibly well respected both locally and further afield. They earned a remarkable reputation with the commercial and pedigree buyers at Uttoxeter Market where they sold surplus heifers and also enjoyed great success in the show-ring. From the early 1970s onwards they exhibited cattle at local, regional and national shows, gaining breed and supreme championships too numerous to mention. John was always a gracious showman wherever he finished in the line-up. The Poynters saved their greatest success for the last decade of their breeding career. In the early 1990s they brought a young cow from the Oakbridge herd. Walker Solitude, a Walkerbrae Eclipse daughter who would go on to be scored Excellent six times, reaching 95 points with a 97-point mammary that won her the Best Udder in Show award at the 1994 National Holstein Show. She bred three EX and two VG daughters, one of which, Stardust Solitude, won the Junior Calf class at the National Holstein Show in 1997. Remarkably, the same class was then won by a grand-daughter of Walker Solitude, Fleetford Maverick Solitude, a year later in 1998.

Throughout his career in farming, John was incredibly generous with his time in serving the wider farming community. He was a longstanding steward of Derbyshire County, Moorgreen and Ashbourne Shows and served for decades on the Derbyshire Holstein Club committee and the Derbyshire Dairy Herds Competition committee. He also helped where he could with Anne’s role as Derbyshire YMA and then HYB Co-Ordinator.

John always gave time and advice freely to those who were getting involved in showing for the first time. By making calves available for showing, he and Anne helped the next generation of dairy farmers and Holstein breeders. The cows always came first at Callow Carr Farm and long before animal welfare was a hot topic, John and Anne were passing this ethos on to anyone who worked for them or helped them. Winners of the Champion Herd in the Derbyshire Herds Competition in 1998, John and Anne took the difficult decision to sell the herd in 2002. They travelled up the M6 to the Wilsons to help restart the Highoaks herd after the foot-andmouth epidemic. In retirement John found more time to follow his beloved Derby County, both home and away and with a couple of big days out to Wembley too. He was also a keen fly-fisherman, a pastime which allowed him to make friends from all over the country. John was a true gentleman with a natural warmth that made him approachable and easy to befriend. He is survived by his remarkable wife Anne and will be sorely missed and fondly remembered as a wonderful friend. A man who loved a good cow, a big catch and a last-minute winner.

John Poynter

Scotland

The Scottish Holstein Club held its Annual Herds Competition Dinner and Awards Night at The Radstone Hotel, Larkhall to celebrate all the club has achieved this year. West of Scotland, Lanarkshire, Kintyre and South West made the best of a difficult year, holding events where possible and within the guidelines. In July the club held its Scottish Herds Competition, judged by Wayne Inman, of Witherslack. Eight herds took part and the winner on inspection was the Weatherup Family from Parkend and Lesmay herds, of Crossgates, who went forward to the UK Premier Herd Competition. Other class winners were announced with Brian and Michael Yates of the Logan herd, from Castle Douglas picking up the top spot for Overall Production and Inspection. Overall winner of the competition, based on points accumulated from various classes was won by Colin Laird of BylthBridge Holsteins. Also presented on the night was special awards to our Holstein Young Breeders. Firstly were long overdue awards to senior member, Alison Hunter and junior member Rory Scott who won back in 2019 but were never presented with their awards. These awards are presented to HYB members who have not only had personal successes in the showring but have also been a great asset to the club in the course of the year. The winner of the HYB Senior Member of the Year for 2021 was Neil Sloan and Junior Member of the Year was Mark Bryson. Their enthusiasm for the breed is a great credit to them and their turn-out at events has been tremendous, whether at the Highland Showcase, Training Day, Calf Show Qualifier or All Britain Calf Show. They deserve all the success that comes their way. The Herds Competition is kindly sponsored by CIS, and special thanks are due to Bruce Fairlie, who travelled the length and breadth of the country chauffeuring our judge. The organisers of the Awards dinner are indebted to sponsors Quest Farm Services and Trioliet who are great supporters of the club and make these events possible. If you have any queries relating to the Scottish Holstein Club, please contact Chairman David Yates (07860 845315) or Secretary Linda Brown (07929 335102). Further information on upcoming events and news can be found on the “Holstein Scotland South” Facebook page.

Milk Records and Inspection (Errol Trophy & Bengalhill Trophy )

1st Brian Yates, 4,440 2nd Colin Laird, 4,302 3rd Brian Weatherup, 4,240

Herds Inspection Whole Herd (Pauls Trophy)

1st Brian Weatherup, 2,000 2nd Steven Roan, 1,980 3rd Colin Laird, 1,960

Group of 10 (Boclair Trophy)

1st Kevin Lawrie

2nd David Yates

Milk Records Only (CBS Trophy)

1st Brian Yates 2,640 2nd Colin Laird 2,342 3rd Brian Weatherup 2,240

Progeny Group (Aries Trophy)

1st Colin Laird, Solomons 2nd Brian Weatherup, Atwood 3rd Andrew Wilson, Kingdoc

Heifer Group (Forrester Trophy)

1st Brian Weatherup 2nd Colin Laird

3rd Steven Roan

Best Animal Exhibitor Bred (Riddets Trophy)

1st Brian Yates, Eastford Diamondback Tabitha 2 ET

2nd Colin Laird, Blythbridge Atwood Primrose

3rd Alan Kennedy, Ettrick Ambassador Mercury

Best Heifer Exhibitor Bred (Hamish Logan Trophy)

1st Colin Laird, Blythbridge Fitz Georgina 2nd Brian Weatherup, Parkend Gold Chip Rubine 3rd Steven Roan, Colvend Doorman Sara

Best Animal Bought In (Russell Trophy)

1st Andrew Wilson, Inspired Fitz Molly 2nd Colin Laird, Cramar Cheerful A Cutes ET

3rd Kevin Lawrie, Hydaway Dice Raquel Red

Cow Family (Bobbity Trophy)

1st Brian Weatherup – Parkend Atwood Betsy & Parkend Kingboy Betsy 2nd Andrew Wilson – Witherslack Mincio Joanne2 & Northshields Pharo Joanne

3rd Brian Yates – Logan Doorman Ambrosia 4 & Logan Grazie Ambrosia

Lowest Cell Count (Animax Cup)

1st Steven Roan, 105 2nd Brian Yates, 131 3rd David Yates, 171

Best Newcomer (Auchencloigh Trophy)

Winner: Alan Kennedy, Ettrick. Isle of Bute

Best Young Stock Person (SFBC Tray)

Winner: Andrew Roan, Boreland of Colvend

Most Points Gained in Competition (Glasgow Dairy Show Cup)

1st Colin Laird, 88 points 2nd Brian Weatherup, 76 points 3rd Andrew Wilson, 58 points

HYB Junior Member of the Year (Strathay Trophy)

Winner: Mark Bryson

HYB Senior Member of the Year (Tom Gray Ardenlea Trophy

Winner: Neil Sloan

Eastford Diamondback Tabitha 2 ET - Winner of the Exhibitor-Bred Cow Class

Winner of Overall Production and Inspection Award - Michael Yates, East Logan

Winner of the Glasgow Cup for most competition points gained is Colin Laird, of Blythbridge

Western

The ABAB handling classes resulted in a first place for Intermediate Handler Lilie Jones while Larissa Jones took fifth place in the Mature Handler class.

Riverdane Holsteins took a third place and a sixth place in the class for calves born between 1st October and 30th November 2020, with Riverdane BBB Ghost and Riverdane Darlingo Rowena respectively. Big congratulations to Western HYB member Jodie Nutsford who won the Louise Hartley Award which is for a HYB member aged between 18 and 22, for making an outstanding contribution to the breed, HYB and their own Club. The club nomination stated that Jodie is a quiet, determined, and valued member, who started showing at the very early age of four. Jodie has a huge range of achievements behind her, including taking first place for Junior handler at the age of 10; winning the Littlestar Award; taking first place for reason giving at the National Rally and travelling to Cremona to compete for Holstein UK. Jodie is always on hand to help by holding workshops for the HYB in showing, clipping and handling. For the club calf show in 2021, Jodie organised everything herself from choosing the calves and encouraging members. Jodie’s career is also all about cows as she is a third-year veterinary student at Liverpool University, hoping to go into large animal practice and helping out at home – even though she has a demanding course, you still find her in the milking parlour most weekends. Norton & Brooksbank reported that trade was fast and furious throughout the Wimboldsley Dispersal Sale on 18th November, with almost 450 milkers sold in just over six hours. Cattle were sold through the ring at one every 50 seconds. Buyers were keen to fill lorries and kept the trade high from start to finish. By the end of the day over 170 head had crossed the 2,000gns barrier with a top price of 2,850gns paid twice for a pair of fresh second calvers by ABS Mayday selling to J W Thomas from Carmarthen and M Evans, Oswestry, respectively. The fresh second and third calvers really were a superb bunch with almost all fetching over 2,000gns. Trade continued through to the finish with many fresh heifers in the range of 2,000-2,400gns. Most pleasing was the demand for laying off cows due back next year with many in the teens of hundreds with the better ones easily crossing 2,000gns. By the close of play almost 450 milkers sold to average £1,917. It should be noted that this average includes all animals including threequartered and cows with faults. Top prices – Wimboldsley Mayday Fiona to M Evans, Oswestry, £2,990; Wimboldsley Mayday Admiration, to J W Thomas, Carmarthenshire, £2,990; Wimboldsley Chamber Ruth, to J W Thomas, £2,940; Wimboldsley Trophy Luce, to J W Thomas, £2,940; Wimboldsley Bromley Rene, to G Thomasson,

Wimboldsley Mayday Admiration 2 Wimboldsley Bromley Rene

Western Holstein Club Young Breeders pose for a team photo at ABAB. A great weekend was had by all.

Cheshire, £2,835; Wimboldsley Bestman Beauty, to L Neville, Derbyshire, £2,835; Wimboldsley Hartley Damson, to J W Thomas, £2,835; Wimboldsley Jaguar Pansy, to R Watkins, Pembrokeshire, £2,780; Wimboldsley Jonas Sandra, to T H Peacock, Cheshire, £2,780; Wimboldsley Daredevil Ada, to T H Peacock, £2,780 A huge congratulations goes to Ray & Jill Brown who received the Ambassador Award at the prestigious Cheshire Farms Competition Awards Dinner, for their contribution to, and promotion of, agriculture in Cheshire. Everyone who knows them will agree they are very well-deserved winners; the Cheshire Farming community and Western Holstein Club will be forever grateful to them for all their effort and input.

Ray and Jill Brown, well deserved winners of a prestigious county farming award

Western HYB member Jodie Nutsford won the Louise Hartley Award

Shropshire

Shropshire’s HYB section returned from a very successful weekend at the ABAB with all handlers doing a great job, especially bearing in mind that several members of a small and very young team were making their show debuts. All featured in top-half placings, while Izzy Smith led the way by being placed second to the overall Champion Handler. Day two saw all club calves being placed very highly – in fact five of the six all placed in the top 10 in each class. The team finished in a very good third place overall. Also of note was Sinead Morris’s runner-up award in the Littlestar Award. Pippa Tudor was nominated for the Louise Hartley Award. A young and enthusiastic team of young breeders performed well above expectations, thanks to the leadership and training of CoOrdinator Philip Arrell. The winter programme began with a family quiz, with quiz masters being Richard and Helen Apperley assisted by nephew Rob. Ten teams of five (and one with a few more!) demonstrated very high levels of knowledge along with some very creative ideas when the correct answers were harder to find. A great evening was made even more enjoyable by refreshments provided by Sue Cope and team. Our very own barman, Dave Gadd kept us well watered.

At the AGM held at Halls Auction Mart, there were presentations from Chairman Philip Jackson, HYB CoOrdinator Phil Arrell, President Tim Preston, Treasurer Susan Cope and HUK Area Delegate Jane Whittaker. Following the elections, the new Chairman is Ed Seaton from Styche Holsteins. Tim Preston has been succeeded by Chris and Grace Brown who take on the role of Joint Presidents. Frank Dixon and Sue Cope were re-elected as Secretary and Treasurer respectively, with Brent Crothers elected as HYB Coordinator after Phil Arrell stepped down. The new Committee was completed with seven new members elected. Chairman Ed Seaton’s first task was to present Phil Jackson and Phil Arrell with well-deserved framed HUK Club certificates for their work throughout the last two years. The meeting was followed by mulled wine and mince pies and an entertaining presentation by Jonny Dymond, senior auctioneer and Mart Manager at Halls Auction Marts. Jonny recalled his life experiences, thoughts and experiences within the dairy industry – which was very interesting and very entertaining. The Dispersal Sale of the famous Woodmarsh Holsteins attracted a huge crowd both in person and also many keen buyers bidding via the Marteye platform. What a herd this is with outstanding cows, pedigrees a mile long, type that most people can only aspire to and production second to none.

Frank Dixon