Hereford BREED JOURNAL 2024
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In the UK alone, 245,000 people are affected by Sepsis with at least 48,000 people losing their lives to sepsis-related conditions every year. This is more than breast, bowel and prostate cancer combined. Globally, Sepsis claims 11 million lives a year. Yet, for many patients, with early diagnosis it’s often easily treatable.
Registered charity numbers: England and Wales: 1158843 - Scotland: SC050277
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Sepsis doesn’t care how tough you are.
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Acknowledgements Acknoledgements
Content
The Hereford Cattle Society Society President, President, Chairman Chairman and and council council would would like liketo to thank thankour ourmembers, members,clubs clubsand andassociations, associations,sponsors, sponsors, judges and staff atstaff the Hereford Cattle society for theirfor continued support. judges and at the Hereford Cattle society their continued support.
Photography
MacGregor Agrimedia Agrimedia Countrygirl Media Media Countrygirl Farm-Link Farm-Link
Editor
Front Cover
Naomi Williams-Roberts Williams-Roberts
EI, TG,IG, EI,EN ENThorne, Thorne,Studdolph StuddolphHerd, Herd,Herd Herdof ofthe theYear Year2023 2023 Photographed by Countrygirl Medai Media
Design Steve Rivers, Rivers Media Naomi Williams-Roberts Williams-Roberts
Hereford Cattle Society Society -- Hereford Hereford House, House, 33 Offa Offa Street, Street, Hereford, Hereford, HR1 HR1 2LL 2LL hello@herefordcattle.org herefordcattle.org 01432 272057 herefordcattle.org 01432 272057 The Hereford Hereford Journal Journalisispublished publishedby bythe theHereford HerefordCattle Cattle Society. Whilst every effort is made The Society. Whilst every effort is made to to ensure the accuracy of the information contained this publication, no responsibiity caninbe accepted by the Society for any ensure the in accuracy of the information contained this publication, no responsibiity canerror be or any reliance on the use of information by readers. by the Society for any error or any reliance on the use of information by readers. accepted
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with all all things things Keep up with hereford from from shows showsto tosales. sales. hereford Keeping up upwith withHereford Herefordnews newshas hasnever never been easier. With Keeping been easier. With thethe useuse of social media, the ringsideas as they of social media, thesociety societyshowcase showcaseresults results from from the ringside happen, share industry news andand sales highs. they happen, share industry news sales highs. are many many ways waysto tokeep keepup-to-date up-to-dateand andengage engagehere hereisisan an There are overview. Discover The society website is aisone Discover the thepower powerofofthe theHereford Hereford– – The society website a one stop hub reports to to technical data, hub for forinformation information- -from fromshow show reports technical data, you’re you’re find the answer to questions your questions We always are always sure tosure findtothe answer to your here.here. We are adding adding more information so ensure youregularly.) visit regularly.) more information so ensure you visit We’re proud proudto tohave haveone oneofofthe thehighest highest audience figures We’re audience figures forfor a a society. Part of this the quality of stock at sales, society. Partisofdue thisto is due to the quality of you stockprovide you provide at shows and on farm,and theon high-quality images supplied our photographic sales, shows farm, the high-quality imagesby supplied by our partners and partners the information photographic and theposted. information posted. audienceon onthis thispage pageisisglobal. global. The audience neverknow knowwho whohas haseyes eyes You never your herd! herd! on your Hereford Cattle Society -- News News
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New for for 2023, 2023,intended intendedas as a place breeders to engage place forfor breeders to engage with one one another, another,showcase showcasetheir with their herds, post for sale ads, herds, post for sale ads, and askand ask questions. If there are any questions. If there are any shows or events that would you think classes that you think would appeal to Hereford breeders, appeal to Hereford breeders, we we encourage to share encourage you you to share the the informationhere. here. information social platforms All social platformswill willbe beused usedas as strategic tools strategic toolsmoving movingforward forwardtoto further promote further promoteand andchampion championthe the benefits of benefits ofthe thebreed. breed.
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Northern Ireland Hereford Breeders’ Association
Society News
8,10, 26,29
Council 2023
12 - 13
Dyfed Hereford Breeders’ Club
Herefords of the year 2023
14 - 15
Powys Hereford Breeders’ Club
158 - 159
Scottish Hereford Breeders’ Association
160 - 162
18 - 19
South of England Hereford Breeders’ Association
164 - 165
Members Success
20 - 24
South Western Hereford Association
166 - 169
In remembrance
30 - 32
Traditional Hereford Breeders’ Club
170 - 173
Herefords Overseas
33 - 47
Linear Assessment
48 - 51
From the Director of Operations National Herd of the Year
Shows and Events list 2024
16
North Wales Hereford Breeders’ Club
150 - 153
Sales
230
Spring Show & Sale
Hereford Beef Ask the Butcher Beef News Dunbia makes sustainable strides Hereford Producers
174 176 - 177
Autumn Show & Sale
180 - 181
55
Dungannon Sales
183 - 184
Stirling
185
56 - 57
Hereford Cattle Breeders’ Assocation Show & Sale
186
Ervie Spring Bull Sale
187
58 - 59, 62 60 64 - 75
Grass Masters Margarita Dispersal Sales Designer Genes Sale
Features
154 154 - 157
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Shows
188 189 - 191 192
194
Paramount position for Thorne’s herd
78 - 82
Cattle return to Benacre Estate
84 - 87
Bulls of the Year Show Season
Young Farming Couple’s Amazing Opportunity
88 - 89
Balmoral Show
199
Black Baldies do the business at Drumdow
90 - 94
Royal Bath and West
200
196 - 197
96 - 97
National Poll Show
Celebrating 50 years with the Fisher herd
102 - 105
NIHBA National Show
204
The Rogers Pedigree
108 - 111
Royal Welsh Spring Festival
205
Ask the Vet
116 - 117
Shropshire County
206
Line 1 Herefords, a lasting impression
118 - 120
Shropshire County Traditionals
207
Happy Herefords help edudcate next generation
122 - 123
Scottish National Show
209
UK Hereford Youth
124 - 128
National Horned Show
212 - 213
President Hosts visit of Welsh young farmers
Devon County Show
202 - 203
213
Royal Welsh Show
214 - 215 217 - 218
Clubs & Associations
130
Royal Three Counties Show Royal Cornwall Show
219
Clubs and Associations Overview
132 - 133
Great Yorkshire Show
220
Hereford Cattle Breeders’ Association
134 - 137
Stars of the Future
222
Midlands & East Anglia Hereford Breeders’ Association 138 - 141
HCBA Christmas Calf Show
223 - 224
National Hereford Club
142 - 143
English Winter Fair
226 - 227
North of England Hereford Breeders’ Association
146 - 149
Welsh Winter Fair
228
hello@herefordcattle.org
Chairman’s Focus
5
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Society Matters
Content
2024
Society Matters 4
● Outgoing and incoming Presidents ● Meet the Council ● Herefords of the Year ● Letter from director of operations ● Herd of the Year ● Members Success ● Exports ● National Beef Association ● In rememberance ● Overseas ● Linear Assessment
Society Matters
5 ● Chairmans's Focus
Society Matters
Within this section
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Society Matters
Chairman’s Focus Looking back on 2023, I take pride in being a part of the changes made within the society. I believe these initiatives will not only propel our breed forward but also facilitate the necessary adjustments to position our product at the forefront of the market. The Journal serves as a fantastic advertisement for the breed and I relish catching up with the activities and achievements of Hereford members. There is nothing more rewarding to me than seeing members in the limelight being recognised within the industry - at farming awards, food awards or within the showring. . Like many businesses, we face the ever-growing demands of adapting to an ever-changing market. With the addition of linear scoring this year, alongside the introduction of genotyping to influence EBV data, we are positioning ourselves as a breed society that believes in progressive thinking. No longer content with using phenotyping as the sole method of breed selection, our toolkit is expanding, enabling us as breeders to make measured decisions and have a positive influence on our animals’ attributes. Now more than ever, it is imperative that the Hereford is recognised as a functional and valuable addition to any herd, be it a pedigree, dairy, or suckler herd. Looking to the end consumer to help guide breeding decisions is paramount, although each stakeholder has common requirements. At the top of the list is the safety of the cow and calf. The animals must be easy calving – you can have the best-looking animal in the world, but if you can’t get the calf out, what use are its other positive attributes that it is offering its offspring? We will be faced with further challenges as 2024 progresses. The drive to become greener will not be disappearing. In fact, it will be something that will become expected of the industry, just like high animal welfare. The council are working towards the creation of support and direction to help facilitate any changes required. It is no surprise to us as Hereford breeders of the innate ability of the Hereford when it comes to grass and forage conversion. . Yet we will need to support this alongside any environmental claims with evidence. I believe that, although this marks a change that can be upsetting, it also presents Hereford beef with a fantastic platform to sit comfortably at the top. Our beef possesses unique attributes that other ‘fashionable’ products cannot compare to. This will be supported through the implementation of ‘British Herefords,’ a banner set up to represent and champion Hereford beef in conjunction with an external marketing partner ‘Ripple Creative’. I would like to take the opportunity to thank the staff at Hereford House, the council as well as the wider membership. I look forward to working closely with you all in the coming year and welcome feedback as our great network allows for better learning.
Best wishes,
Phil Allman,
Hereford Cattle Society Chairman
Society Matters
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Society Matters
Massey takes on Presidency Allen Massey of Wythen Polled Herefords and Hollyvale Herefords, in Bury, Lancashire, has been elected president of the Hereford Cattle Society for 2024. A society member for over 30 years, Allen is the Farm Manager at Wythenshawe Community Farm, where Hereford Cattle are the backbone of operations. WCF, is maintained by grants and public funding. Relying on the dedication of volunteers they are able to open seven days a week.
Alongside his brother Phil, they established Hollyvale Herefords, a family-run herd, that has enjoyed success at many shows, including Yorkshire and Cheshire shows, as well as polled and Society shows and sales.
Allen welcomes volunteers from all walks of life, including rehabilitating offenders and providing placements for higher education and young people deemed hard to reach.
Allen has served on the Council for 9 years and as Chairman and President in Bury, where he has encouraged new and young members of the breed. When asked
David Smyth hands over the president’s badge to Allen Massey about the year ahead, he said, ‘I’m looking forward to meeting our members on herd visits throughout the UK and sharing my passion for the Hereford breed. I would like to seek opportunities to promote our excellent beef further, and to find appropriate beef schemes to command the market.’ Steve Edwards was voted as vice-president of the Hereford Cattle Society for 2024.
Society staff Paul Sneyd
Director of operations paul.sneyd@herefordcattle.org 07811 748079
Naomi Williams-Roberts
Marketing and breed development manager
Naomi.Williams-Roberts@herefordcattle.org 07486 023626
Beverley Turner
Finance and administration manager beverley.turner@herefordcattle.org 01432 272057
Tracey Thomas
Grass, Forage, Amenity and Countryside Stewardship Mixtures www.whittalseeds.co.uk
DNA and registrations manager tracey.thomas@herefordcattle.org 01432 272057
Call 01432 278411 or email sales@whittalseeds.co.uk
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31/01/2022 12:48
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David Smyth reflects on his year as President Society Matters
David Smyth reflects on his year as society president David Smyth regards his presidency of the Hereford Society not so much as a personal honour – which it undoubtedly is – but also as an opportunity to promote the attributes of the breed at the vanguard of agriculture’s response to climate change. He feels passionately that the road to greater sustainability within the beef industry has one clear end point: the greater utilisation of grazed grass and forages. And it is in this context that Hereford genetics has a key role to play. Moreover, all of this can be achieved by delivering what consumers really want: beef of the highest possible eating quality. The last 12 months have seen David meeting up with Hereford breeders in every part of the United Kingdom. He also had the opportunity of visiting shows and other breed-related events. “But my visit to the Highland Show stands out as a true highlight,” he said. “The event itself reflects everything that is positive, within agriculture in Scotland. However, I came across the day before to meet a delegation of Hereford breeders from Kazakhstan.” David continued: “Initially I thought that communicating with the visiting group might be a challenge particularly when it was pointed out that the interpreter hailed from Azerbaijan. “However, the opposite was the case. It turned out that the lady in question had spent four years studying at Queen’s University Belfast. “As a result, she spoke English with a distinct Ulster accent. This meant that I could understand every word
David Smyth with his herd, Magheraknock Herefords. she said. And she had a firm grasp of the points that I was making. A great time was had by all.” Another standout event for David was the 2023 Three Counties Show, held in Malvern. “I was asked to judge the Inter Breed Stock Judging class, which was a great honour indeed.” Attending Balmoral and Clogher Valley Shows in his role as Hereford Society President were two further notable moments for David. In so doing, he was following in the footsteps of a select few Hereford breeders that hailed from Northern Ireland. “I also had the opportunity of judging a selection of classes at Clogher, which was another tremendous honour for me,” David commented. “Tom Brennan, from the Balleen Herd in Co Kilkenny judged the Hereford classes at Balmoral. ” Working with young people has always been a priority for David Smyth. So, he was delighted to have the privilege of hosting a visit by Welsh young farmers back to in the early Autumn. While with him, the group inspected the cows that make
up the Magheraknock herd plus the 2023 crop of calves. A lengthy discussion on the role that Hereford breeding can ally in delivering a more sustainable beef sector followed. The year started for David with his attendance at the British Cattle Breeders’ Conference in Telford. This took place at the end of January. It was followed on Valentine’s Day (14 February) with the Northern Ireland Hereford Breeders’ Association Premier Show and Sale in Dungannon: Maddie Clark, from Scotland, judging. The event saw two young bulls each making 3,200gns in the sale ring: the respective breeders were John & William McMordie, from Ballygowan in Co Down, and Mark and Lawrence Moore, from Aughnacloy in Co Tyrone. Getting real decisions made at Society Council meetings was a priority for David. He cites the Extraordinary General Meeting of the Society, held in July, as a case in point. This event was marked by the formal acceptance of the Society’s updated Memorandum and Articles of Association.
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Society Matters
David regards this decision by members as key in facilitating the further commercial development of the Hereford beef brand.
committee breeder of horned Herefords. So, he was never going to miss the 2023 Tenbury Show, held in August.
The Co Down man believes passionately in the ability of pedigree and commercial Hereford breeders to supply high quality beef to consumers while meeting the terms of the various Climate Change Acts that have been enacted throughout the UK.
The overall supreme champion rosette and trophy was secured by the bull, Pulham Admiral from the herd of PRJ & LR Vincent.
Another highlight of 2023 for David was his attendance at the Southwest Regional Open Day, hosted by Paul and Vicky Moyles at their farm in South Wales. The couple own the Porton House herd. David commented: “The event provided visitors with an excellent opportunity to view polled Hereford genetics of the highest quality.” The Society President is a
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much more to look forward to as the sustainability agenda plays out within UK agriculture.” David concluded: “In summary, it has been a very enjoyable year. I have met great people and was given a unique
David commented:
opportunity of viewing some
“The horned show is one of the highlights of the year, as far as I’m concerned.
tremendous cattle. Moreover, I
“Tenbury was a tremendous dayout. It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying the event.”
none at all times. It only remains
As David Smyth had initially expected, 2023 has turned out to be both a busy and highly satisfactory year.
amazing opportunity to serve as
He commented:
and hospitality. Last, but not
“I believe that pedigree Hereford cattle breeding has never been in better heart. Numbers remain more than healthy and there is so
Collect from young or pregnant donors On-farm services Livery service Utilise rare or valuable semen Recipient availability
was always warmly received, and the hospitality was second to for me to thank the Hereford Cattle Society for giving me this President. I specifically want to thank the many breeders that I have visited for their welcome least, I wish my good friend and successor Allen Massey a very enjoyable presidential year in 2024."
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Society Matters
Benefits for members: Support DNA testing for pedigree identification and disease services Updates with the latest developments and research that may affect Herford Cattle Management and promotion of regular Hereford Cattle Society shows & sales, along with the annual Awards Dinner. Collects and compiles available performance data on Hereford Cattle Collaborates with academic research wherever possible An online database search facility Annual Breed Journal Access to premium Beef Schemes
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Dedicated support
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Society Matters
Society Council Elected from varying areas to represent members in meetings and events throughout the year. Meet the Hereford Society Council.
Philip Allman, Chairman
West Midlands
pjallman2@gmail.com 07860 824703
David Makin Midlands
adzorherefords@googlemail.com 079610 33283
Mike Shaw
Midlands & East Anglia thornysure@gmail.com 07968 486823
Sarah Cowle
Midlands & East Anglia mrscowle.meahcsc@gmail.com 07770 666887
Allen Massey North of England
amassey.farm@btconnect.com 07917 324471
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jackie.jcrltd@outlook.com 07960 994376
David Smyth
Northern Ireland m5wds@hotmail.com 07808 078117
James Graham Northern Ireland
richmountherefords@gmail.com 07984 458007
George Harvey Scotland
george-harveybros@outlook.com 07810 807824
Martin Jenkins South of England
martinjenkins@aol.com 07785 388408
Non Thorne Wales
nonthorne@hotmail.com 07890 781323
Society Matters
Jackie Cooper, Vice-Chairman
North of England
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Society Matters
Battle of the bulls at Annual Awards Following a busy show season, the results were announced for the Herefords of the Year competition at the annual awards dinner in Shrewsbury. The night marks the climax and conclusion of a year of hard work and dedication, behind a season of exhibiting stock up and down the country from Scotland to Cornwall and everywhere in- between. Each individual win not only racks up the ribbons but also adds points to move an animal, herd or breed a step closer to claiming one of nine coveted silverware pieces to take home and display pride of place.
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The room filled with anticipation as the presentation for the 2023 Hereford of the Year winners began. The bull of the year cup is sharing its home this year with two worthy winners, following a tie for the first-place spot. L & L Bowen’s, Nelson, Glamorgan, Solpoll 1 Trailblazer and Liam Jackson-Carr’s, Sheffield, Coley 1 Vincent. Both bulls have been a staple in the showring this season, accumulating points throughout the years show calendar. Solpoll 1 Trailblazer was bought into the Bowendu herd in 2021 from breeders John and Williams McMordie, Ballygowan, Co Down and has earned the Bowens numerous championship titles this year from shows such as Bath and West and the Royal Welsh. His triumphs haven’t ended there, his progeny Bowedu 1 Ruby 2nd seeing success this year in her own right. Bred by Heather Whittaker, Coley 1 Vincent from Liam Jackson-Carr
2 of JC Hererfords has dominated the north, taking home the championship title at both the Royal Highland and Great Yorkshire shows. With the herd calving their first Coley 1 Vincent sired crop this year, this impressive bull will no doubt pass his winning touch to his progeny, setting the team up for future success. With her breeding taking home both the poll and bull of the year title, Heather Whittaker did not go home empty handed as Coley 1
Duchess 609 claimed the title for both female of the year and poll female of the year. Earlier this year Duchess strode into the supreme champion position at the Royal Norfolk Show, also having won the junior and female championships. Following their outstanding success at last year’s awards, Simon and Gemma Hartwright, Spartan herd, will be adding their names for a second year, with their stock bull, Solpoll 1 Perfection, taking the much-anticipated sire of
15 Tom, and Di Harrison, Stocksfield, Northumberland headed to the front of the room to collect the award for the show herd of the year. The couple weren’t in their seats long before returning to collect horned female of the year with their homebred heifer Moralee Curly C1288, sired by Parkhill Pompeii out of Auckvale Curly 1831S. Familiar faces on the scene this year, the team have travelled the breadth of Britain collecting red ribbons. After being tapped out in the top spot at this year’s national horned show at Tenbury Wells, Pulham Admiral from PRJ & LR Vincent, sired by Mawarra Influential Q162 an Australian bred bull shared within a syndicate, marks the exciting success of the imported genetics, earning him the cup for horned bull of the year. The night saw further success for the Pulham team as they returned to the stage, presented with the Horned Herd of the year trophy. Both cups will be heading to their home in the east of England. Congratulations to all those who won and took part in the points shows. All will agree that there was a strong presence of Hereford cattle at the shows throughout the summer, drawing interest from parties within and outside the farming community.
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Images 1. Solpoll 1 Trailblazer bred by J & W McMordie, owned by L & L Bowen, named joint bull of the year. 2. Coley 1 Vincent bred by H Whittaker, owned by L Jackson-Carr, named joint bull of the year. 3. Sire of the year – Solpoll 1 Perfection from SC and GL Hartwright. 4. Horned bull of year, Pulham Admiral from PRJ & LR Vincent. 5. Show herd of the Year, Tom & Di Harrison, Moralee Herefords. 6. Polled female of the year, Coley 1 Duchess 609 from Heather Whittaker.
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Society Matters
the year title. Bred by Northern Irish breeders John and William McMordie, the Hartwrights made its purchase at the 2019 society spring show and sale for 8,000gns. It is son of the renowned Panmure 1 Henry.
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Society Matters
From the Director of Operations With the political and economic climate changing at huge pace there are challenges ahead, but we should not underestimate the opportunity we have as a breed and how we can be at the forefront of that change. This previous year has seen the society move forward in numerous ways. Reflecting on the past twelve months, it’s humbling to be part of a change that will not only make an impact to the society, but the breed. Opening the year on a high, the council decided to implement the use of genomic data to improve the accuracy of EBV evaluations. With over 13,500 animals recorded on the Hereford Cattle Society database with a genotype, each animal holds 50,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Every SNP influences a characteristic unique to the animal, both positive and negative. With this information becoming visible to breeders, it’s an invaluable tool to support breeding decisions within a herd. Future purchasers have the reassurance that the animals they’re looking to purchase have the desired impact, coinciding with the vision for their herds progression. With the support of Dr Brad Crook, Breedplan, the change over was a smooth one. With the update already starting to pay dividends, with animals spotted in society sales, later in the year boasting positive EBVS. To continue the momentum, we will continue to educate and encourage our members to continue recording, in a correct and accurate manner. Something that we have already begun but have set our sights on for 2024 to increase. Continuing the theme of data improvement. The month of May saw linear scoring being added to the roster of services provided to our members. Offering an objective, independent assessment of cows within a herd, the process sheds light on the star members and any areas of improvement.
Working with this system can enhance longevity, health, and welfare. Again, offering purchasers at sales visibility of the quality of an animal’s linage. So far to date we have had well over 250 animals assessed. In July the society held an EGM at Hereford House where changes were passed, to encourage inclusivity and improve continuity within management as well as improve the expertise of the directors – these changes were made in-line with charity commission regulations. a) A youth Director, aged up to 26 years, would be appointed annually b) The number of qualifying registrations for appointment as a director would be reduced, from 10 calves to one calf. c) Persons representing member companies and partnerships would be eligible for appointment as directors. d) Persons appointed to act as President, Chairperson & Vice Chairperson would be remunerated, (at the directors’ discretion) to recompensate them for their time and expense in carrying out their duties e) Directors cannot serve for more than two consecutive terms of office (after 2023)
The summer saw show teams up and down the country exhibiting their animals. This included familiar faces but also a positive uplift of new breeders who have started showing their animals for the first time with great success. As always this captured the attention from both the farming community and the public. With the support of social media we have continued to grow an active engagement from around the world regarding coverage of shows and other events. The figures were released at the end of the summer showing calf registrations of pure-bred animals and Hereford X are up by 7% from last year. The largest percentage growth of any other breed in the UK, both native and continental. This is something we are immensely proud of. With the support of the measures, we’ve implemented throughout the year, we hope to see
Paul Sneyd this trend continuing. In the UK, the beef dairy industry is seeing the largest growth. Suckler herds are minimising but still have a very important role to play. This is reflected in the strong prices and buoyant demand for good quality animals at society sales and off-farm purchases. We have been working hard over the last few months with our beef marketing Partners Ripple with rebranding our commercial offering and very much looking forward to launching this in 2024. At both society show & sales this year we saw a great appetite for elite pedigree stock, especial notable in the current economic climate. Having chatted to breeders the length and breadth of the UK it has been really pleasing to hear how strong bull sales in particular have been in 2023 – long may this continue! Another defining moment which is celebrated in the pages of this year journal was the national herd competition. Congratulations to TG, EI & EN Thorne, Studdolph Hereford and many thanks to judges, David and Kate Dickinson. Despite the changes we have made this year, we still have many more miles ahead of us, particularly in the investment of research to further strengthen and underline the benefits of the breed. However, with the support and enthusiasm of a network of Hereford breeders I look forward to getting involved in what this year has to offer. I wish you all well for 2024.
Holmefold Herefords Maddyscott1997@gmail.com 07462950206 Belthorn, Lancashire
Biobest High Health Scheme TB area 4
SCOTLAND’s SMALL HERD OF THE YEAR 2023 Stock and Embryo’s For Sale Hereford and Hereford X calf registrations up by 7% 2023.
Premium Cattle Health Scheme Accredited
Registrations for Hereford and Hereford X calves saw a healthy uplift of 7% in 2023. Across the Johnes 1 since 2012 board the Hereford boasted the largest improvement against Level both natives and continentals.
BVD andtheTB AHDB published their findings in September capturing data through firstFree three quarters of the year. The trend saw a decreasing number of cattle across all groups. Dairy male calf Breedplan EBV Performance recorded registrations have made a significant reduction with the continued implementation of sexed semen and beef crossed animals within the GB dairy herd. Pete Eccles 0750 3925917
The number of calves registered that would be available for beef production, both dairy and rocknessherefords@icloud.com beef calves, has reduced by 1.8% to 1.30 million head, largely driven by dairy males.
Holmefold 1 Rocco
for beef production out of the dairy Farm, herd has risen by 1.7% while suckler-born Supreme champion - Christmas Calves Calf registered Show 2022 Carlaverock East Lothian, EH33 2NF registrations have fallen by 3.5%. This demonstrates the increased importance of the dairy herd to beef production.
Hereford and Hereford X calf registrations up by 7% 2023
Numbers continued to fall with registrations of breeds including Limousin X, Charolais X and Simmental X, compared to the same period last year. By contrast, Hereford X, Aberdeen Angus X and British Blue X continue to grow in number. This could be attributed to the changing industry practices such as increased uptake of integrated supply chains with breed stipulations and popularity of native breeds among retailer lines.
Registrations for Hereford and Hereford X calves saw a healthy uplift of 7% in 2023. Across the board the Hereford boasted the largest improvement against both natives and continentals. AHDB published their findings in September capturing data through the first three quarters of the year. The trend saw a decreasing number of cattle across all groups. Dairy male calf registrations have made a significant reduction with the continued implementation of sexed semen and beef crossed animals within the GB dairy herd. The number of calves registered that would be available for beef production, both dairy and beef
calves, has reduced by 1.8% to 1.30 million head, largely driven by dairy males. Calves registered for beef production out of the dairy herd has risen by 1.7% while suckler-born registrations have fallen by 3.5%. This demonstrates the increased importance of the dairy herd to beef production. Numbers continued to fall with
registrations of breeds including Limousin X, Charolais X and Simmental X, compared to the same period last year. By contrast, Hereford X, Aberdeen Angus X and British Blue X continue to grow in number. This could be attributed to the changing industry practices such as increased uptake of integrated supply chains with breed stipulations and popularity of native breeds among retailer lines.
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National Herd of the Year trophy returning to Wales This year, judges up and down the country visited herds within regional associations and Hereford clubs to determine which of their members had the best herd. It’s an opportunity for breeders to not only showcase their breeding stock but also their systems, farmland, and plans for future changes. Those lucky enough to be spotted as the associations top pick are then brought forward to partake in the national herd of the year competition. Judging the national herd competition is no mean feat, setting aside personal commitments to travel the width and breadth of the United Kingdom to assess nine herds. Invited by the Hereford Cattle Society council to take on the mantle was husband and wife team Davie and Kate Dickinson. Not known as a couple to shy away from a challenge, they happily accepted and were excited to see what was on offer from fellow breeders. Davie Dickinson began his farming career by breaking away from the traditions of his family to pursue his own passion. He started as a shepherd, adding shearer and then sheep scanner to his CV. His skills were not only in demand in the UK but also New Zealand, allowing him 13 years of travelling from country to country. Here started his love and appreciation for the
1 breed having seen large herds of Herefords on his travels. Having been born into the farming life, Kate Dickinson continued her links within agriculture working from MAFF, DEFRA and the Poultry Club of Great Britain and currently for the British Free Range Producers Association as the membership and event manager. It was during her time as an inspector for MAFF, that she headed up the drive of a small holding, selected for an inspection, to meet its occupant, Davie Dickinson. The premise of a romantic comedy, Kate reprimanded Davie as he had written his movement records in pencil. The pair must have made a lasting impression from this meeting as few months later they met again, this time in a local nightclub and have been together since. Both determined to continue ahead in farming, wanting to secure a plot of land to expand their enterprise, they applied for farming tenancies.
After multiple unsuccessful attempts the two took the leap purchasing land of their own. Chattlehope House was 400 acres of bare hill ground when they first purchased it 17 years ago. Since then, the couple have improved its infrastructure with the addition of buildings, including cattle housing and a muck store along with a family home which they now share with their 15-yearold daughter, Nina. Set 1,000 feet above sea level at the top of the Pennines in Northumberland close to the Scottish border, the farm is completely off grid.
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The farm is ring fenced with forestry which prevents nose-tonose contact with neighbouring farms but enhances the local insect population. Sitting above the snow line the farm often lies white for several weeks at a time. They have a higher-than-average rainfall, the ground is clay over peat and there is a peat bog on the farm. Despite all these challenges the family and
19 Kate put great emphasis on Chattlehope in her presentation as it has set the foundation for their judging criteria and gave the audience which included those whose herds, they visited context to their decision. Davie and Kate both decided before heading out that they were looking for a consistent herd with naturally fleshing cows, producing quality calves. They would take into consideration farm types. Expecting variation from farm to farm, they wanted insight into how the land was being managed to suit the unique needs and ecosystem of each, as well as any environmental sustainability initiatives being undertaken with particular focus on management of grassland and improvements. All of this alongside a long list of questions surrounding herd husbandry spanning insemination to health schemes.
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As Kate concluded with what she described as the ‘Winning formula’ she moved ahead reviewing the nine herds she’d visited with Davie and later due to illness, without Davie. Touching on areas of interest from each, showcasing animals within the presentation on screen. Thanking all families and herd owners for hosting the Dickinsons on their judging journey. The top three winners were announced. In third place, with a herd that showed exceptional consistency and confirmation throughout especially considering the size of the herd, Messrs Kemp of Auckvale Herefords in County Durham.
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The second-place position was awarded to Laura and Phillip Vincent, Pulham Herefords again producing a herd which had great cow consistency, condition and conformation and with breeding prize winning young stock.
Area Winners Scottish Hereford Breeders association winners – I Wilkinson South of England Hereford Breeders Association – Messrs Myers Midlands & East Anglia Hereford Breeders Association – PRJ & LR Vincent Traditional Hereford Breeders Club – P Holloway Southwestern Hereford Association – JD Moorhouse Wales Hereford Club – TG, EI & EN Thorne Hereford Cattle Breeders Association – EL Lewis & Son Northern Ireland Hereford Breeders Association – A Shaw North of England Hereford Breeders Association – W & R Kemp & Sons
5 As the applause died down, the room of more than 120 heads sat quiet, awaiting the final decision and announcement from Kate. The winners of the National Herd Competition for the second time in a row, hailing from Pembrokeshire in Wales, with 45 Polled and British polled cows within their herd were the Thorne family, Studdolph Herefords from Wales.
Images 1. Taking first place Non Thorne, for TG, EI & EN Thorne, Studdolph Herefords. 2. Laura and Phillip Vincent, Pulham Herefords. 3. Messrs Kemp of Auckvale Herefords in County Durham. 4. Judges Davie and Kate Dickinson with David Smyth, Hereford Cattle Society President. 5. A delighted Non Thorne. .
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their pedigree Hereford herd are thriving. At the annual awards dinner, Kate gave insight into their farm, and its challenges, finishing with the statement. “It may not be the easiest or the best farm in the land, but it is ours.” As she finished the sentence, she was met with applause from the room, in support and understanding. A moment that felt profound.
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Members Success Celebration of breeders achievements within the industry
NFU Success for Young Breeder NFU Success for Young Breeder
An ambitious young farmer has been named asfarmer NFU An ambitious young Cymru representative has been named as NFU on Cymru representative on&the the NFU's new Student NFU's new Student & Young Young Farmer Ambassador Farmer Ambassador Programme 2024. Programme 2024. Ben Chilman from Radnor will Ben Chilman from Radnor will make up the union's eleven newly make up the union's eleven newly announced ambassadors from announced ambassadors from across England and Wales. across England and Wales. With the forthcoming UK General With the forthcoming UK General election on the horizon, coupled election on the horizon, coupled with the continued push to keep withand thefarming continued push tofront keep food at the fore offood peoples & and minds, farmingthe at Student the fore front Young Farmerminds, Ambassadors will & of peoples the Student Young Farmer Ambassadors will
Naomi and Ben for being selected play a vital role in conveying the story and value of British farming to for the NFU’s Student & Young NFUFarmer President Aled Jones said: “I’d It willthe play a vital role is conveying public. Ambassador programme. like to offer my congratulations to the story and value of British is absolutely fantastic to have such Naomi and Ben for being selected A full-time farming to thefarmer, public.Ben works at vibrant and enthusiastic people for the NFU’s Student & Young home on his family farm, a mix Farmer Ambassador programme. wanting to work with the NFU It and A full-time farmer, Ben works at enterprise comprising of beef, is absolutely fantastic to have NFU Cymru to help us tell our home on his family farm, mix sheep, free-range hensa alongside such vibrant and enthusiastic enterprise comprising of beef, positive farming story to the the public, people wanting to work with the production of arable crops. sheep, free-range hens alongside formers politicians, NFUopinion and NFU Cymruand to help us tell the"I'm production of arable enthusiastic aboutcrops. promoting our locally positive farming story to the and nationally. public, opinion formers and what farmers do and I'm looking politicians, locally and nationally. “Farming is undergoing huge "I'mforward enthusiastic aboutinfluential promoting to meeting what farmers do and I'm looking change, from significant changes people from the industry," Ben “Farming is undergoing huge forward to meeting influential in farm policy and support, comments. change, from significant changes people from the industry," Ben inflationary costs of production in farm policy and support, comments. Alongside his role at home, Ben inflationary costs ofbusinesses, production to the impacting farm hosts a podcast with fellow farmers, impacting farm businesses, to the impacts of climate change and Alongside his role at home, Ben of climate change and 'Ted' and 'Nog'. Orginally set up to impacts more regular adverse weather hosts a podcast with fellow regular adverse weather help ease that plagues more events, so arguably it’s arguably never farmers, 'Ted'the andisolation 'Nog'. Orginally events, so it’s never been community, this setthe upfarming to help ease the isolation a more important time to betime ableto been a more important contributed his success in 2022, to tell story of that plagues thetofarming community, bethe ablepositive to tell the positive story and showcase the winning Ag Student the Year this contributed to his of success in at agriculture of agriculture and showcase massive show of support we are the 2022, Student of the the winning FarmersAg Weekly Awards. massive show of from support so fortunate to have thewe are so Year at the Farmers Weekly public. fortunate to have from the public. Alongside Ben, representing NFU Awards. Cymru within S&YF Ambassador thoroughly looking forward “I’m“I’m thoroughly looking forward to to program,Ben, is Naomi WilliamsAlongside representing NFU working withwith Naomi andand BenBen andand it working Naomi Cymru within S&YF Ambassador Roberts, Marketing and Breed is remarkable to seetohow it is remarkable seemuch how much program, is NaomiManager Williams-Roberts, they have already achieved Development for the theytheir havetender alreadyyears. achieved despite Marketing and Breed Development despite I can’t Hereford Cattle Society. their tender years. I can’t wait wait to see what impact they haveto Manager for the Hereford year.” they have in the Cattle Society. Aled Jones said: “I’d in the seecoming what impact NFU President like to offer my congratulations to coming year.”
Shepherd takes award Hereford Cattle Society Breeder, Graham Shepherd, Takes national award for plastic-saving and carbonreducing system for dairy hygiene products. A system of re-using packaging for dairy hygiene materials and ensuring stream-lined and timely delivery of supplies has attracted
a top innovation award. Part of the national dairy industry CREAM awards, the 2023 Innovation Award went to Lancashire-based G Shepherd Animal Health. Vet Graham Shepherd, who founded the company in 2008, has been instrumental in developing a system for re-using barrel-type containers, for producing more concentrated dairy chemical and
Innovation Award winner 2023 G Shepherd - L to R Natilie Bromley FD, Maria Shepherd, Alan Whibley publisher, Graham Shepherd CEO, Chris Shepherd COO
“The system can achieve significant savings,” says Dr Shepherd. “We’re aiming for 20 re-uses from each plastic barrel, and delivering more concentrated products, where possible, reduces the transport of these materials.” The re-use of containers for the company’s teat disinfectants, that promote cow udder hygiene, started in August 2021, followed by its concentrated BactoBAN dairy cleaning chemicals in September 2022. Dr Shepherd has piloted the scheme and carried out a study with the University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN) to ensure its effectiveness in re-use of packaging materials, and has shown a reduction in carbon use of 99% from re-using the packaging. “And at the end of its lifespan, the packaging material can be recycled,” he adds. “We’ve also estimated that our
concentrated plant cleaning chemicals can save 33% on package requirements and delivery mileage, which both contribute to a reduced carbon footprint in the supply chain.” The company will add a remote level sensing technique for monitoring its chemical and hygiene product use on farm. This combines a sensor fitted to the rim of each container linked to a SIM card and app. which allows the company to monitor levels from its offices and arrange the delivery of supplies more effectively. “We can manage supplies and streamline our transport, and also ensure farmers have materials as required, helping to safeguard animal health and milk hygiene.”
Improved animal health and food quality (udder health, milk hygiene) Nearly two tonnes less plastic per 1,000cows a year (equivalent to eight tonnes of CO2 Approximately 33% less product volume required which reduces transport miles by 33% More transport efficiency with improved delivery routes Improved farm cleanliness from less waste plastic
The total plastic use for dairy chemicals on UK dairy farms is estimated to be 2,277 tonnes per year. The study at UCLAN shows just one re-use cycle saves more than 99% of the CO2.
more concentrated chemicals and re-using containers the plastic use for a 200-cow herd can be reduced by 395kg a year. On a national scale for 1.1million cows this equates to a reduction of 2,173 tonnes of plastic a year. This would be a significant and important contribution to reducing the carbon footprint in the UK dairy industry,” says Dr Shepherd.
“We have estimated that by using
www.gshepherd.co.uk
A glittering achievement for Isla Soutter stock judging. The opportunity arose in 2020 to travel to New Zealand to take part in the World Hereford Conference. Although placed on the reserve list for the UK, she was soon snapped up by Denmark, securing a place within their team.
Isla Soutter secured herself a silver position at this year's British Farming Awards 2023. Spending her childhood in the Lake District, surrounded by pedigree stock, it's no surprise that Isla is making waves within the industry. An active member of The Hereford Cattle Society, UK Hereford Youth, and the Limousin Society, she has cultivated a love for showing and
Studying at Harper Adams University has helped her to pursue a career within the sector. Throwing herself into educational life and the opportunities that presented themselves on the journey has only helped to fuel her success. Selected for a place on McDonald's Progressive Young Farmer's placement scheme expanded her farming experience further. Placed within poultry, an area in which she had no previous experience. Despite beginning on uneven footing, she soon got her stride, and it is now an area Isla has come to love.
The scheme also offered a visit to Parliament and to lead a team in the Great Agri-Food Debate, where the team spoke on regenerative agriculture and was awarded third place. Keen to continue her knowledge of varying farming practices, Isla took a trip down under to visit multiple farming enterprises in Australia. The judges were impressed with Isla's proactive and positive approach to her studies. Being open to all challenges and opportunities was highlighted as a benefit to both furthering her career and having a positive effect on the industry, especially in promoting the sector to varying audiences. Isla has now taken on a role with leading food processor ABP, where one of her focuses is on connecting to the consumer, and how a trusted relationship can be built.
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hygiene products and for more streamlined delivery on to dairy farms. Named Plasti-Save™.
G Shepherd Animal Health quote the key benefits of its new Plasti-Save system as:
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Fabb herd gain affirmation of success in form of British Farming Award For farmers, Helen Parr, and Daniel Fabb, Fenside, Cambridgeshire, their attendance as runners in the British Farming Awards has been a long time coming.
in moving forward. The Herefords allowed Dan and Helen to cut out concentrates and feed a foragebased diet, lowering input costs. Since its establishment, the pedigree herd has seen great success. As a closed herd there is no focus on showings and ribbon collecting, instead, they gain herd validation through commercial viability and the success of Fabb sired progeny. Used all over the world via AI. Fabb (the area of the business to promote the sale and distribution of their herd’s semen) the offspring commonly hit topselling selling prices at sales and hold their own within the show ring, claiming championship titles.
Having been nominated multiple times throughout the years, Helen and Dan, declining humbly., feeling that it wasn’t the farm’s time to shine. The couple wanted to ensure that their multifaceted farming enterprise was well established before setting their sights on the accolade. The daughter of a contract herdsman on a local dairy farm in Leicestershire, Helen loved helping her dad on the farm, exchanging school shoes for wellies as soon as she got home. At 15, she left school and gained a job at a dairy farm. She credits her supportive employers with helping her pursue a multitude of opportunities which set a firm foundation for her later successes and passion for the sector. Daniel was a boy who didn’t enjoy school life. His first brush with farming came when a teacher introduced him to her farmer, husband. Much like Helen, with this support, Dan left school to pursue farming full-time. Establishing a contracting business at a young age, baling straw supplied to local power stations. Their paths crossed when both subscribed to the online dating site ‘Muddy Matches’. The pair hit it off, sharing a hearty passion for farming and dreams they hoped to make a reality.
Farming cattle began as a pragmatic solution to utilising an overabundance of straw. Two lorry loads of dairy x bottle calves entered the holding, all sired by a selection of breeds: Longhorns, British Blues, Angus’, Limousins, and Herefords. With no defined plan of direction for the cattle, the cross-section of breeds offered a unique opportunity to observe the qualities each could offer the farmers. The Hereford-sired calves stood out against the other breeds, showcasing improved weight gain. When the youngstock herd was troubled with pneumonia, the Hereford calves were more manageable, recovered quicker, and were easier to handle. Helen, at the time, was pregnant with their first daughter, knowing that they were going to raise a family and for Helen to be working the cattle predominately on her own, meaning that safety was a massive consideration when evaluating the next steps with the enterprise. As the animals matured, the Herefords continued to tick the boxes, positioning themselves as a forerunner in the breed to invest
Fabb 1 Northern Star, purchased by National Cattle Breeding Centre, Ireland, boasts impeccable calving ease figures and sits in the top 1% for short-gestation period, making him a popular AI choice with dairy farmers. As a terminal sire, he is in the top 5% for eye muscle, yet still, the balance is visible to make him an appealing choice for pedigree cows retained for breeding. The pair pride themselves on their vision to produce a functional animal suitable for today’s market. Any bulls not deemed suitable to sell as stock bulls or head into the AI. Fabb programme, are sold within beef boxes. An enterprise established to increase profit from the cattle. Within a few months, they’d established a hungry customer base, with boxes flying out the door.
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The current headcount is 95 animals in total. 48 breeding females, 1 bull. Calving in the spring and autumn Weaning at 9 months Bulls leave the farm at 15 months within beef boxes. All finished on a complete foragebased diet. The increased connection to the consumer, through direct supply, encouraged an interest in educating the next generation about the importance of purchasing locally and the provenance of food. Local schools are welcomed to the farm and exposed to the concept of seasonal food, their benefits, and the idea of field-to-fork. As the farm has developed over the years, so has the infrastructure. Originally an arable farm, under a mid-tier scheme, funding was sourced to support the division of 47 hectares into 27 fields, secured with fencing and hedging. The funding also contributed to help cover the cost of the installation of water pipes, troughs, roadways, muck storage and concrete, all supporting the management of livestock on site. Within the fields, to complement the forage conversion abilities and nutritional requirements of the Herefords, GS4 legume and herdrich swards have been established, contributing to a rich bio-diverse habitat for pollinating insects. The combination of species within the ley has eradicated the need for nitrogen fertilizers and fairs far better during drier spells. Alongside all this, Dan has been able to grow his contracting business, continuing in the baling of straw but expanding into groundwork, construction, agricultural shed building and machinery hire. Day to day, Helen manages the farm in all aspects alongside caring for their two daughters. Thriving off
a busy lifestyle. Their hard work was recognised when they attended the British Farming Awards 2023, leaving with the second prize silver award for Beef Farmer of the Year. “The event really was like the Oscars! So many famous faces!” Helen describes, “Completely different to home life on the farm, that was for sure!” Not attending the event alone, Helen and Dan were accompanied by friend and fellow Hereford
enthusiast, Maddie Clarke from UK Sires, as well as their vet, Will Stevenson from Three Rivers Vets practice, who they credit as being an instrumental member of their team. “We have had massive support from breeders all over the world. The Hereford breed does bring people together which you wouldn’t get in any other industry. Achieving this support and acknowledged for the hard work over the last 12 years, we are proud to be flying the flag for the first generations farmers.”
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Features
Hereford Cattle Breeder’s Association presented with the Thomas Duckham Epergne. The Hereford Cattle Breeders’ Association won the Thomas Duckham Epergne with the submission of a club report showcasing the organisation’s vibrant calendar. Fighting off stiff competition, the associations, strong submission was the standout winner, bagging them a certificate marking their achievement alongside a £500.00 cheque. The award was presented by Vice President Allan Massey as this year’s HCBA Christmas calf show to club secretary Emma Davies and vice-chairman Colin Powell. The fourteen-page report was brimming with herd visits. The running theme along the visits focused on farmland improvements alongside the utilisation of biodiverse leys to work in harmony with the Hereford’s natural forage conversion abilities. These systems contributing to the promotion of low cost, low input, sustainable beef production. The council felt
HCBA Vice Chairman, Colin Powell, Vice President Allen Messey and HCBA secretary, Emma Davies this proactive approach to the changes seen across the industry was commendable. Another area that caught the council’s eye was HCBA’s entrepreneurial focus, working to add value for their members by uplifting strong marketing materials, shows and a newly established closed sale. The sale, established at Worcester Livestock
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market, is offered exclusively to their members to increase the opportunity to market their animals at a premier sale. The association has been utilising social media as a vehicle for promoting these events, their members herds and animals. They boast a healthy following and engagement, aiding to maximise the reach of members’ posts.
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Horned Herefords (The REAL Hereford)
Runner up for the National Herd of the Year 2006, Joint 3rd 2008 Hustyn Cider
Hustyn Cider at 2½
Male Champion, Breed Champion, Cornish Champion, Royal Cornwall Show 2023. Shown straight from the field, one of the first sons of Border Souvenir, Royal Cornwall Show Breed Champion 2022. All who see him say that he is the biggest and best Hereford Bull they have seen. We would like to thank Helen and Stan Quan for breeding the best cattle in the breed and again to thank Ifan Davies who had a hand in breeding Border Souvenir’s Great Grandfather V25 and showing our cattle at Royal Cornwall Show Hustyn Greyart at 19mths by Border Souvenir 2023 again. Also we would like to thank David Jones of Phocle for breeding outstanding Phocle Generator who has sired an outstanding herd of cows. These two herds have helped to make our herd great as well as the breed.
Visitors always welcome. Cattle are bred not fed!
Fred, Roland & Jackie Hawke
Hustyn Farm, Burlawn, Wadebridge, Cornwall, PL27 7LD Phone
01208 815834
Features
Breock, Hustyn & Nanscient
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UK Hereford semen exported to USA The semen rights along with a semen bundle of Moralee 1 Rebel Kicks KS R12, bred and owned by Tom and Di Harrison of Mickley, Northumberland have been purchased by Ohio-based Shawn Stevens. Moralee 1 Rebel Kicks KS R12 Having admired ‘Rebel’ on social media for some time, Shawn followed Tom and Di’s journey with interest, from winning the native interbreed at the Royal Highland Showcase to placing third in the Hereford of the world competition. With the deal two years in the making, Shawn first reached out to Tom and Di via Facebook before conversations moved to the telephone followed by a meeting in Fort Worth, Texas while the breeders were in the country to collect their prize money for their success in the Herefords of the world competition. Tom Harrison said: “Shawn seemed particularly aware of the need for new genetics and greater frame
size within the US Hereford herd, saying that the cattle there had been getting smaller and wider for too long and he wanted to make a start on turning this trend around. He’s already expressed interest in a further purchase.” Shawn was also very interested by Rebel’s dam, Romany 1 Dawn D1 M6, bred by Robert Wilson up in Kelso because it has a very high IMF EBV which is particularly commercially relevant in the US market. The breeders say PJ Budler was a great help in facilitating this deal, along with Rob Wills and Maddie Clark from UK Sires. Shawn has now launched a website specifically for Rebel Kicks.
Tom commented: “I don’t think there is another bull in the world with its own website. Di and I are really excited to see where this goes. Having visited America a couple of times now, we are sure the potential influence for UK genetics does not end with just Moralee. We would like to think it opens the door for more genetics to be exchanged in both directions, with a huge pedigree and commercial potential in the US, particularly so for homozygous poll cattle. “It just shows the power of social media,” he added. For more details, visit www. rebelkicksbull.com
UK Exports in high demand Live Export The year opened with seeing the first exports head off in January. The first of those being Pulham Wedding Crasher from Phillip and Laura Vincent, Norfolk. The September 2021 born bull heading to breeder Padraic McKenna, ‘Lisgoagh’ Herefords, Glaslough, Co Monaghan. Out of homebred stock, Wedding Crasher is a son of Pulham Ranger, out of Pulham Pansy 15th. Later that month, also heading to Co Monaghan, saw a consignment
of three females head across the border. From the Black Water herd, owned by S & N Heatrick, Middletown, Co Armagh; Black Water Venus, Black Water Valentine, and Black Water Valmai, all autumn 2021-born, were purchased by Marc Coyle, Threemilhouse.
Helen V444. A daughter of Solpoll 1 Promoter.
Moving ahead into February, Paul Sammon, Nenagh, Co Tipperary selected two breeding cows from Northern Ireland breeder, Andrew McMordie, Newtownards, Co Down. Solitude 1 Helen A242, sired by Fabb 1 Top Prize, out of the second cow acquired, Solitude 1
Hot on the purchase of the Solpoll bull, the National Cattle Breeding Centre spared no time in acquiring two more bulls to add to their pool of Hereford genetics. Also heading across the Irish sea was Fisher 1 Windsor W557 from Reg Hutchings, sired by Fisher 1 Prospect and out
To close the month, Solpoll 1 Watson from J & W McMordie, Co Down, made the trip south, to the National Cattle Breeding Centre. This marked the first of a stream of animals to head to NCBC.
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of Fisher 1 Orange J359 from the Orange line. Will Awan’s Midford 1 Whizzbang, a son of Kinglee 1 Hero, out of Moralee 1 Kate 2nd. A large consignment of eleven animals purchased from the Solpoll herd, made the journey to a group of breeders in France. Pierre Antoine, Mesangueville, purchased ’22-born bull, Solpoll 1 Workman alongside a ’22-born heifer, Spolpoll 1 Dainty W15. Jean-Beniot Pruvost invested in two new bulls 2021-born Solpoll 1 Wisdom, a Solpoll 1 Promoter son as well as Solpoll 1 Whirlwind, a half brother of Solpoll 1 Dainty W15, sired by Solpoll 1 Real Good. Taking two heifers over the Channel, Victorien snapped up two March 2022 born heifers. Daughter of Solpoll 1 Promoter, out of Solitude 1 Duchess P946, Solpoll 1 Duchess W21 as well as Oscar 1 Fiona, who was bought in from K McOscar to the Solpoll herd in October the previous year as a calf at foot to dam, Gouldingpoll 1 Fanny 1085. Alongside the female power, Solpoll 1 Wombat will also be joining Victorien Postel’s herd. Another Solpoll 1 Real Good son. Solpoll 1 Wiseguy and Solpoll 1 Wyoming, headed to P Bastein, again sons of both Solpoll 1 Promoter and Solpoll 1 Real Good, proving popular with the French breeders. Travelling with Wiseguy
Want to learn more about exporting? Scan the QR code to visit the imports and exports rule page on the Hereford Cattle Society website
Midford 1 Whizzbang and Wyoming, three animals spotted by Sylvere Nollet, Solpoll 1 Starlet W13 and Solpoll 1 Pansy W24 and bull Solpoll 1 Whiplash. Closing the consignment heading to the continent was Didier Gallet from Vern sur Seiche, who acquired bull, Solpoll 1 Wild West, sired by Moeskaer Pacman 1417, out of Solpoll 1 Stella T1. Later in the year, Dieulacresse Vijay from TA Spooner, Staffordshire headed to Co Limerick to breeder J O’Connor. Born April 2021, Sired by Dieulacresse Rossiter who's sire is an Australian import from the Mawarra herd. Closing the year for live exports, back at the Solpoll herd. Young bull, 2023-born Solpoll 1 Admiral alongside Solpoll 1 Starlet A5 headed off to Paul Sammon in Co Tipperary.
Semen Export This year, a consistent flow of semen exports was observed, indicating a sustained international
trade. This began early in the year when 500 straws of Moorside 1 Santana headed from Norbreck Genetics ltd, on behalf of G & MC Shepherd to World Wide Sires in Ireland, Co Cork. Making their way to Viking Finland, 10 straws of Moralee 1 Panda from breeders Tom and Di Harrison, managed again by Norbreck Genetics ltd. Another semen success for the Moralee herd took 300 straws transatlantic along with semen rights to breeder Shawn Stevens, Ohio Heading across the channel to Germany. A consignment of straws headed from Panmure 1 Henry, bred by JM Cant & Partners, Tayside, currently owned by J & W McMordie to Martin Bierwirth, Alsfeld. Glenvale 1 Ferguson bred by the current national herd of the year for second time running, TG, EI & EN Thorne, Pembrokeshire, currently owned by Genus Breeding Ltd was sold to National Cattle Breeding Centre, Republic of Ireland.
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Regular newsletter and press readers will know that this is an often-beaten drum for me, and one which I will continue to pound until someone in power wakes up and smells the roses. As the devolved governments continue to pedal their individual agendas, the Agricultural Support versus Environmental Gain battle seems to be missing the point in a potentially catastrophic way. UK food security - and the security of beef producers - is being threatened across all four home countries. I therefore have a devolved wish list for 2024 - my own ‘Dear Santa’ letter… Wales- it’s difficult to see how the sitting Labour government could possibly be any more anti-farming. All industry stakeholders are going to be seriously challenged on every front, in the valleys, the towns and beyond. Their policies range from an uneducated and unscientific blinkered view on bTB (and with it an utter lack of any sensible control or eradication policy), to planting up to 10% of their most productive farmland with trees. Wales is, and will remain, one of the biggest challenges for next year. The best solution would probably be a new UK Labour government, removing the option for the Welsh Labour Party to blame Westminster for all their woes. The derogative terms which were used by government ministers in parliament, suggesting farmers struggling with bTB should ‘change to a different business’ is a good indication of the level of support being offered to producers in Wales by their own elected government. Northern Ireland- presently without a sitting government but managing quite well without one! Agricultural policy is quietly progressing in
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Devolution threatens food security! the background; a number of efficiency-payment-type-carrots are being dangled for future policies, including a decrease in calving index, decreased slaughter age and early calving for heifers at two years old. Some of the carrots have been in the ground for some time and are well-grown. Many of these options were part of the NBA’s carbon reduction plan in 2020 and will undoubtedly form part of the remainder of the home countries thoughts at some point in the future. Scotland – Agriculture doesn’t appear to be a priority for the sitting government, and the Bute House Agreement which was entered into with the Green Party has left that minority party with a disproportionately loud voice. Seven years have passed since Brexit, and with it the acknowledgement that agricultural support would have to change. Only now have the Scottish Government published an Agriculture bill; a bill which basically allows them to implement anything they like. Details about the actual support which will be available are still absent from the public domain. With the Greens pulling the strings, and the likes of the RSPB and others pushing hard for a share of the pot, the future will likely be challenging. Of course, the Agriculture bill must still be approved by Westminster, and Alister Jack has already proved he is more than capable of a resounding NO. England- Defra has yet another new Secretary in place, Steve Barclay. This position has been rotated far too often, and it’s having a negative impact on the industry; the longest incumbent in recent time goes back to the last Labour government. In policy terms, SFI/ ELM has progressed, and next year’s standards - announced on the 18th September - do bring some real opportunities to predominately grass-based livestock units. It should also be mentioned that from Defra’s own figures, livestock producers - both
Neil Shand lowland and upland - are the worst off in the industry; with average earnings below the minimum wage, there is certainly room for a lot of improvement. As we enter into what will be an election year, we, as an organisation intend to pull together a fighting manifesto, which will cover issues in all corners of the UK. It’s certainly a challenge, but it will be a manifesto which will ensure all our members – wherever they live -will feel supported by. Food security is a life priority. Government policies can only be effective if the UK is considered as a whole; there is no net environmental gain from decreasing livestock numbers in Scotland or Wales. The corresponding import increases from overseas into England would have the exact opposite effect – an increase in carbon footprint, and a dramatic decrease in food security. It really isn’t that long ago since Covid, and yet the lessons appear forgotten. Politicians should take a good long look at the needs of the people who elected them to serve their best interests; food security should not be subject to petty partisan bickering and party politics. All the best for a health and prosperous 2024 Neil Shand
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In remembrance With a profound sense of loss and utmost respect, we pay tribute to several esteemed members of our community who departed in 2023
DavidFenton, Fenton,Boresisle Boresisle Herd David Herd Having joined the Hereford Cattle Society in 1988, David Fenton began a small amount land for Having joined thefarming Herefordwith Cattle Society in 1988,ofDavid livestock and purchased first Hereford cattle. Fenton began farming with a his small amount of land for livestock and purchased his first Hereford cattle. A few years later, he moved into breeding original population genetics, the enterprise gradually building A few years later, he moved into breeding original population to become the largest herd of Traditional Hereford genetics, the enterprise gradually building to become the cattle in the country. In 2003, David opened the retail largest herd of Traditional Hereford cattle in the country. In and processing arm of the business, Silcocks Farm 2003, David opened the retail and processing arm of the Shop and Café, where the organic Boresisle Hereford business, Silcocks Farm Shop and Café, where the organic herd would supply to 60 steers alongside Boresisle Hereford herd50 would supply 50 atoyear 60 steers a year products from the farm’s small dairy herd of Ayrshires alongside products from the farm’s small dairy herd of and British Friesians, as well as sheep and pigs. Ayrshires
In the pedigree world, Boresisle breeding has influenced countless herds and has been a and British Friesians, as well as sheep and always pigs. In the go-to source to supply qualityhas bulls and females to pedigree world, Boresisle breeding influenced countless new and and has existing David himself served as herds alwaysmembers. been a goto source to supply quality Secretary of the Hereford Breeders’ bulls and females toTraditional new and existing members. DavidClub for many years, and his of passion for the Hereford breed was himself served as Secretary the Traditional Breeders’ Club years, and his passion for the breed exhibited in for themany numerous projects and initiatives was exhibited in the initiatives he supported withnumerous the Club,projects alwaysand striving to he supported withmembers the Club, always striving bring inofnew bring in new and raise thetoprofile the members and raise thehusband profile of the cattle. Much-loved cattle. Much-loved of Juliet, a father and husband of Juliet, a died aged 84, peacefully on 7th grandfather, David father andatgrandfather, David died Kent. aged 84, peacefully on August home in Tenterden, 7th August at home in Tenterden, Kent.
Bob Borwick, Mara Herd Bob’s love of Hereford cattle began as Farm Manager Bob Borwick, Mara Herd for the Mackaness family at Preston Deanery in Northamptonshire in thebegan late 1960’s where, along Bob’s love of Hereford cattle as Farm Manager for with the his wife Margaret, they went to live Mackaness family at Preston Deanery in at Preston Lodge Farm. Northamptonshire in the late 1960’s where, along with his wife Margaret, they went to live at Preston Lodge Farm. When the farm was split up in 1975, he continued to work for Charles Mackaness and together they started When the farm was split up in 1975, he continued to work for the “Prestone” herd, breeding under that prefix until Charles Mackaness and together they started the “Prestone” the origination of Bob & Margaret’s own herd “Mara” herd, breeding under that prefix until the (named after the Masai Mara in herd his native origination of Bob & Margaret’s own “Mara”Kenya) (namedin after 1985. the Masai Mara in his native Kenya) in 1985. Bob was meticu-
lous the consideration bloodlines and spent Bobinwas meticulous inofthe consideration ofhours bloodlines poring over pedigrees, deep in study of the breed’s herd and spent hours pouring over pedigrees, deep in study books, always priding himself on the strength of the female of the breed’s herd books, always priding himself on the lines used. Particular emphasis placed on Tarrington strength of the female lineswas used. Particular emphasis breeding, was placed on Tarrington breeding, which he described which he described as “the cornerstone of the breed”, this as “the cornerstone of the breed”, this formed a formed a powerful and uniform base for the six female lines powerful and uniform base for the six female lines he he kept and developed: Blossom, kept and developed: Blossom, Bonny, Diadem, Dowager, Bonny, Diadem, Dowager, Model, and Pansy. Model, and Pansy. Among others thethe bullbull Wabash AllenAllen 1X was firmafavourite, Among others Wabash 1X awas firm being one of the first Canadian imports favourite, being one of the first Canadian imports into into and bredentirely entirely from from the ‘M’‘M’ family on thethe UKUK and bred theTarrington Tarrington family his side, Bob ensured that this that bull and particular ondam’s his dam’s side, Bob ensured thisinbull and in Tarrington would appear as oftenappear as possible in the particularMarch-On Tarrington March-On would as often back pedigrees of his female lines and was integral to his as possible in the back pedigrees of his female lines breeding philosophy. Bob’s and was integral to his breeding philosophy. Bob’s dedication to producing cattle of his favoured type regardless dedication to producing cattle of his favoured type of the way fashion dictated, made him a regardless of the way fashion dictated, made him a well-respected personality within the breed, whose herd well-respected personality within the breed, whose displayed a sought-after type and consistency. herd displayed a sought-after type and consistency. The quality of Bob’s breeding and stockmanship was proven The quality of Bob’s breeding and stockmanship was inproven the show again and successes in ring the show ringagain againwith andnumerous again with numerous across five decades, winning several
successes across five decades, winning several prestigious titles including National Hereford Show Championships with the bulls Prestone Boxer in 1986 prestigious titles including National Hereford Show Champiand Mara President in 2018. Mara females took the onships with the bulls Prestone Boxer in 1986 and Mara top spots in 2009 and 2010 under the ownership of President in 2018. Mara females took the top spots in 2009 Mrs Lesley Jackson, whose Sparkwood herd – along and 2010 under the ownership of Mrs Lesley Jackson, whose with manyherd others – had the benefit of Bob’s extensive Sparkwood – along knowledge and mentorship. with many others – had the benefit of Bob’s extensive
knowledge and mentorship. Another breeder who became great friends with Bob is Paul Snell of Lowergrove Herefords: Another breeder who became great friends with Bob is Paul “Bobofimparted hisHerefords: passion of Hereford cattle to me and Snell Lowergrove in particular his knowledge of pedigrees, this formed “Bob imparted his passion of Hereford cattle to me and in my own breeding strategy that continues today. His particular his knowledge of pedigrees, this formed my own willingness to impart what he knew to those lucky breeding strategy that continues today. His willingness to enough to be considered or indeed to impart what he knew to thoseworthy lucky enough to bewilling considlisten, was a great credit to the man I was grateful to ered worthy or indeed willing to listen, was a great credit to callman my Ifriend.” the was grateful to call my friend.” Having gradually reduced cattle numbers in recent Having gradually reduced cattle numbers in recent years, years, Bob saw to his renowned Mara herd’s final Bob saw to his renowned Mara herd’s final dispersal on 16th dispersal onUnfortunately, 16th May thishe year. Unfortunately, he the May this year. suffered a heart attack suffered a heart attack the very next day and sadly very next day and sadly passed away at Northampton General Hospital passed away at Northampton General Hospital following following further complications on 28th May. His further complications on 28th May. His influence,knowledge knowledge and expertise in breeding influence, and expertise in breeding Hereford Hereford ofquality the highest qualitytowill to cattle of thecattle highest will continue becontinue seen for years to ourcome. deepest sympathies anddeepest send become. seenWe forexpress years to We express our condolences Margaret, Robert, Belindatoand their families. sympathiestoand send condolences Margaret, Robert, Belinda and their families.
31 service and Brian was committed to improvement. Through breeding over the years the herd’s average beef value increased from HE25 in 1979 to HE33 in 1995. Brian believed that breeding by beef value helped increase the meat yield, much of the external fat could be bred out while marbling was maintained. The beef was sold in the Farm Shop which had now been expanded to enable them to sell meat produced on the farm, which by this time also included free range pigs and poultry fed on a 100% natural diet.
Brian was born to be a farmer, he was a wartime baby, his parents had a smallholding near Spalding in Lincolnshire. In 1947 the family moved to Kent and took up a tenancy on a farm in Warehorne. Brian left school in 1955 and joined his Dad and brothers on the farm, they gradually expanded the farm across the Romney Marsh. In 1960 Brian met Evelyn and they married in 1962 before moving to New Romney in 1965 to Warren Farm which was their home for the next 40 years. Brian and Evelyn had four children. At Warren Farm Brian and Evelyn farmed sheep and grew crops including Potatoes, Wheat, Barley and Daffodils. They opened a Farm Shop in the early 1970’s. In 1978 having an interest in cattle Brian and Evelyn took the step to diversify into Hereford Cows and purchased their first six cows from the Dispersal Sale of the Wilcot Herd, this was followed by 6 more females in 1980 from the Clarendon Herd and the Brodnyx Herd came into being. Alongside their other farming interests Brian and Evelyn built up the Brodnyx herd, initially using top AI bulls. As the herd grew and time moved on they produced some top rated homebred cattle and the Brodnyx herd took their first tentative steps on the Hereford show circuit in the mid 1980’s. In 1990 Brian was invited to the Winter Fair in Canada to represent the UK Hereford Society, during their visit Brian and Evelyn spotted a six month old bull calf called Allspring W63 Benchmark being shown with his mother in Monkton, New Brunswick, they bought him then and there, his mother with him at foot went on to win the six major shows in North America, the only time this feat was ever achieved. Benchmark’s progeny was all that they hoped for, some were shown either by other breeders or by Brian and Evelyn went on to win many championships across the UK and several of them were sold into some of the top pedigree herds in Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Benchmark was Sire of the Year in 1996 and runner up twice but most importantly for Brian and Evelyn he produced the type of animal they were striving for, one that breeds well and grades well with full flavour beef that the Hereford is renowned for. Breeding Herefords became a real passion, the aim was to produce animals that were the best the breed could be. Since the herd was established all animals were performance recorded through the Signet Beefbreeder
By the middle of 1996 the beef sold through the farm shop was based on their 225 pedigree Herefords , the herd at that time was made up of approx.. 80 females calving in September and January to mid April to ensure even supply of meat for the shop. As the business grew Brian took to the road selling their home produced meat at Farmers Markets across the South East, a movement which was still in it’s infancy in the UK at that time. And whilst most beef farmers were struggling with the impact of BSE at that time, Brian and Evelyn saw their beef sales increase by at least two- thirds not only did they have first rate beef but it had a fully traceable provenance, pretty trailblazing stuff for the mid 1990’s. Brian was a natural speaker with a passion and a wealth of knowledge and you could easily engage him on topics he was interested in and had opinions on. During the BSE crisis he was very much in demand, giving various interviews to news broadcasters across the world, and appearing on Sky News and BBC Newsnight, he was the man in the know and a great advocate for the British Beef Farmer. Back on the show circuit the herd went from strength to strength and by the mid 1990’s Brodnyx was a very well known name in the Hereford world. Brian was a very familiar face on the show circuit, as both stockman and owner. In 1998 Brian became President of the Stockman’s Association, he also judged cattle on many occasions and went on to become Chairman of South of England Breeders Association for many years. The Brodnyx Herd won many accolades, winning multiple Breed and Interbreed Show Championships with homebred bulls such as Beethoven, Knuckles, Lambert, Lancelot and Majestic and Females from lines such as Rosebud, Careful, Duchess, Plum and Anxiety. They were also Show Herd of the Year in 1997, The South of England Herd of the Year three times, runner up three times and third in the National Herd Competition. Sadly all good things come to an end, and in the early 2000’s Brian and Evelyn made the hard decision to retire and disperse the herd. The chances however are fairly high that if you trace bloodlines back from some of today’s top UK Herefords there will be some Brodnyx in the mix somewhere. And by way of forget me not there is the Brodnyx Trophy awarded annually to the Best Young Handler, South of England Breeders Association. In 2004 Brian and Evelyn started a new chapter of their lives in Spain and had a house built. Brian spent a lot of his time in his garden developing it from a patch of dirt with almond trees to a beautiful oasis full of plants and fruit trees. In 2017 Brian and Evelyn started spending more time in the UK and moved back permanently in 2021 to enjoy time with the family and long walks by the sea. Brian died at home surrounded by close family.
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Arthur Brian Frith, Brodnyx Herd
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Bryan "Butch" Beynon, Kingshall Herd Bryan passed away in November 22 at the age of 80. A successful farmer, stockman, and Hereford enthusiast. Bryan was born into a respected farming family in 1942 on the Gower Peninsula, number seven of eight children. On leaving school he undertook an apprenticeship in carpentry with a local builder however, in 1964 he married his lifelong sweetheart Mary Bevan and moved just 50 yards across the road to live and work alongside Mary's family on their mixed farm which included a dairy herd, sheep flock, corn and vegetables, alongside a milk round run by Mary. Most of the work was done by Bryan and his elder brother Ron who had gone to Middleton Farm straight from school. The two brothers worked together for well over 50 years. Bryan always had a keen interest in quality livestock of any sort, he bred a first class dairy herd, a good flock of sheep, and was passionate about his Welsh mountain ponies. Around the year 2000, the family bought a cow and calf from the Border herd as a present, so the Kingshall herd was founded. Further purchases from Border, and also a small herd from Kent with similar breeding, soon increased numbers. Stock bulls were sourced
Rodney Westaway, Clipston Herd In loving memory of Rod Westaway 1944 - 2023 Rodney passed away 30th December 2023. His full obituary will be in next years Journal.
from Border, Glenrose, and Dendor. Over the next few years a limited amount of showing was done with great success at Gower Show. As numbers grew Bryan was keen to sell surplus heifers at Hereford however, he took some persuading to offer a particularly smart in calf heifer at the first sale entered in Autumn 2010. Kingshall Liz won the senior heifer class and went on to become female champion, not a bad start ! Rugby and shooting were two of his hobbies, playing rugby for prominent local teams in his early years, and shooting with friends over many seasons. As son James took on more responsibility on the farm Bryan and Mary holidayed to many parts of the world, Hong Kong, New Zealand, and Canada among them. A much deserved retirement after a lifetime dedicated to farming. RAH.
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An update from Hereford organisations around the world
Ireland Finland have warmly welcomed TheWe Irish Hereford society 2024 and the year is in is going from strength 2023 to the books. This is a great strength. This is in part due opportunity to reflect on the to the major increase in dairy events of the herds across the country. Finnish Hereford Association. During 2023 wethe had our We are lucky to be second traditional two general meetings biggest beef breed being used in and published a magazine. The dairyHereford herds which is was a major marketin breed on display for Hereford breeders. also Okra farm fair and It inisKoneagria down to changes made throughout farm machinery show. the year to the streamlining of annual national tasksOur & ensuring a more Hereford efficient show took place in the beginning model of work for both staff andof November in Ilmajoki organised in breeders. cooperation with the Finnish NewAngus rules have been adopted Association. The show, that was judged by Danish breeder to ensure full transparency in Premier Spring Hereford Bull Sale 2023 - Top Price - Drumgoonpoll 1 Anders Mortensen, received the herdbook by whichwas from 1st It is inspiring to see so many and to Sydney forensure Aidan participation McCabe. Soldwas €11,600 with a great turnover of participants, January all Pedigree registered talented young breeders stay possible even without halter with six classes of heifers, Herefords will be named using bulls, active develop their skills. training. and cows. straws of Kanimbla Power Quest a Spring like and no other in terms of initials to signify if the animal is and The Ranch Remington from selling bulls. The sales started extra homozygous polled, heterozygous The 2023 National Female International cooperation in 2023 A new feature this year was the Australia and are excited to seeVergo early with customers seeking Champion was Ohra-Ahon included participation inout NAV polled or horned following being introduction of a production what comes from both. As some bulls in January compared to a bred and owned by Anniina ja workshop and Nordic Hereford tested for the polled gene via competition where cattle were UK breeders may be aware we associations’ In Pekka Lahtinen and the – Male later start of Marchmeeting in other Denmark. years. genotyping. submitted to compete based on have a star evaluation system for all Champion was AT Ukki, bred and spring Finnish beef cattle breeders The shortage of bulls following a weight of weaned calves (cows) The society are also embarking first 2022 genomic ownedcattle by Jyri Tanner. Pedigree that is governed by clear received out in thetheir Autumn left and average daily weight gain of Hereford junior activities included breeding values. on aoffspring rebranding journey which is ICBF. The evaluation is determined (bulls). many dairy farmers fearing they a juniorindices handlerinvolving workshop before currently on going – the end goal by several certain wouldWriters: have to Taru go without if they our show, where two junior Luomajärvi and will be a more effective brand This competition was established traits including fertility, milk, didn’tSenja shop early. handlers’ classes were held. to emphasise the productivity design with a functional website carcase traits as in weight and Vehkaoja The society sales kicked off with for our members to use to process conformation and other important the Premier sale in GVM Tullamore registrations, log queries and traits. The evaluation has recently enter sales etc. We look forward to on Saturday 25th March. The sale incorporated a carbon index which unveiling our new brand in the New was a smasher with one polled includes age of slaughter and Year. Hereford bull in hot demand. has subsequently improved the Drumgoonpoll 1 Sydney, bred by Herefords evaluation figures. This Breed Improvement remains at Aidan McCabe, Cavan, was the is a big boost for the Herefords in the core of the Irish Hereford Ireland within the market place and show stopper of the day when Society and we have been busy should open doors for importing two breeders fought it out to looking for new genetics and new bloodlines from abroad also. purchase this November 2021 born bloodlines in the UK and further bull. As with every sale though afield. We are currently awaiting there can only be one buyer and genotyping evaluation results for Spring Hereford bull Wade McCrabbe of Ardstewart some Hereford bulls in the UK. As sales 2023 Herefords stuck in until the end and part of our Breed Improvement Scheme - we have also purchased Hereford breeders in Ireland had purchased the Fabb 1 Northern Star
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Herefords Overseas
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Society Matters
National Hereford Champion 2023 - Country-Crest-Rob son. There was elation around the ring as the auctioneer dropped the hammer at €11,600. Sydney is bred from Corlismorepoll 1 Sydney 981, a Dendor 1 Kohinoor dam. The sale was a great success all round with the average price resting at over €4,000 and 70% clearance rate. Overall Hereford Bull sales last Spring were on a high with 76% of bulls presented at sales sold to an excellent average price of €3,400.
National Hereford Show 2023 The National Hereford Show 2023 was held on Sunday 13th August as always at the Tullamore Show! The show was a great success with over 90 Hereford cattle exhibited on the day and a continuous large crowd of spectators.
Supreme Hereford Male Calf Champion 2023 Dunworleypoll 1 Percy with breeder Jack Moloney
The National Hereford Calf Show 2023 The National Hereford Calf Show 2023 was held on Saturday 18th November in GVM Tullamore. The event was very successful with over 90 calves exhibited on the day making for good competition across all classes. The National Hereford Calf Show has become an excellent shop window for Pedigree Hereford breeders to showcase their young stock. The Pedigree class judge on the day was Mr. Trevor Masterson from Galbally Herefords, Wexford. Trevor has been steeped in breeding Herefords & Limousin for years and is an avid exhibitor at the Kilkenny Spring bull show & sales.
Supreme Hereford Female Calf Champion – Mark Hyland, 80633, Hillockpoll 1 Holly. Supreme Hereford Male Calf Champion – Dunworleypoll 1 Percy has five stars for the Terminal Index, Carcase weight & conformation, four-star DBI index.
Genetic Gems 2023 The third annual Genetic Gems Sale was also held on Saturday 18th November in GVM Tullamore. Another great sale hosted by the Gems team saw 70% of females sold, top price of €5,100 and an average sale price of €4,029. Alongside the Heifer sale was the FH Herefords dispersal sale which was also a resounding success with all females sold on to a top price of €5,600 and an average sale price of €4,433!
It was a pleasure to welcome Ms. Carolyn Fletcher from Barwise polled Herefords, Cumbria, England. With over 90 cattle showing on the day and some very large classes – judging the Herefords was not that simple but Carolyn carried out the task efficiently and concisely. Each exhibitor was treated very fairly on the day and Carolyn’s consistent judging rang through each class. The exhibitors and the spectators were impressed by Carolyn’s choices which is not an easy win at the best of times. Supreme National Hereford Champion: Niall Maguire, Country Crest, Lusk, Dublin, Country Crest Rob.
Grianan Orange A974 sold for €5,100, with Tara Drumm & breeder Tom Fitzgerald
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Society Matters
South Africa The Hereford breed is one of 34 registered breeds of cattle in South Africa and, to remain relevant to commercial beef production, breeds need to evolve continuously and meet the needs of the commercial farmer’s requirements or risk becoming irrelevant in the country’s beef production. The Hereford breed has been doing this for 106 years now in South Africa and is one of only seven breed societies to offer Genomic based EBVs which have been running since June 2022. The South African Hereford Society has a stable core of registered breeders, (approximately 35) who are committed to supplying the genetic needs of our commercial farmers. Hereford bulls are a good choice in these commercial cross breeding programs given the purity of the breed and its genetic distance from popular local female lines. Popular local female lines would be the Zebu or Indigenous African breeds in the warmer climates and British Beef or Composite types in the temperate climates.
Texan farmers visit Border Herefords A group of Texan farmers visted Border Hereford of S W Quan and co on 26th September. Amongst these visitors was Director of the Texas Farm Bureau, Mark Daviel. The farmers in attendance varying in size from units running 60 head of cattle to 3,000. All parties enjoyed a great exchange of views varying from the cattle, to the political climate for UK farmers and the history of the Hereford breed.
The adaptability of the modernday Hereford, bred to survive in the harsh African climate is the cornerstone for our breed’s success. These cattle demonstrate a remarkable ability to thrive in a diverse range of climates across the country, from areas with as little as 200mm of annual rainfall to the wetter climates boasting annual rainfalls in excess of 1000mm. The South African Hereford Society had the opportunity in 2023 to host the first National Championship Show in more than six years, with previous attempts being halted either by COVID or Biosecurity risks. On the 3rd and
4th of May 2023 the National Show took place in Bloemfontein and our fellow countryman and globally renowned judge, PJ Budler, was tasked with sorting through the various entries and selecting our champions. Although the entries for the National Show were slightly down on previous years, the quality of the animals exhibited was of an exceptional standard, and an absolute credit to the breeders who exhibited them. May this be a stepping stone to making the following National Show an even greater success. May 2024 be a phenomenal year for Herefords world-wide!
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Finland We have warmly welcomed 2024 and the year 2023 is in the books. This is a great opportunity to reflect on the events of the Finnish Hereford Association. During 2023 we had our two annual general meetings and published a magazine. The Hereford breed was on display in Okra farm fair and in Koneagria farm machinery show. Our annual national Hereford show took place at the beginning of November in Ilmajoki organised in cooperation with the Finnish Angus Association. The show, that was judged by Danish breeder Anders Mortensen, was received with a great turnover of participants, with six classes of heifers, bulls, and cows. A new feature this year was the introduction of a production competition where cattle were submitted to compete based on weight of weaned calves (cows) and average daily weight gain of offspring (bulls). This competition was established to emphasise the productivity
and to ensure participation was possible even without halter training.
to see so many talented young
The 2023 National Female Champion was Ohra-Ahon Vergo bred and owned by Anniina ja Pekka Lahtinen and the Male Champion was AT Ukki, bred and owned by Jyri Tanner.
International cooperation in
Hereford junior activities included a junior handler workshop before our show, where two junior handlers’ classes were held. It is inspiring
breeders stay active and develop their skills. 2023 included participation in a workshop and Nordic Hereford associations’ meeting in Denmark. In spring Finnish beef cattle breeders received their first genomic breeding values. Writers: Taru Luomajärvi and Senja Vehkaoja
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Hungary Society Matters
The past year brought numerous challenges and opportunities for our association and its members alike. Extreme weather conditions have complicated the situation for farmers and beef cattle keepers in our country. Decreasing income alongside rising costs, market vulnerability, and the ageing generation of beef cattle keepers have also affected Hereford breeders. Unfortunately, despite all our efforts, the Hereford breed’s population continued to decline. While the rate of decline has slowed compared to previous years, we hope that this trend, following international patterns, will change in our country as well. The main challenges include our producers’ market exposure, low domestic beef consumption (only 3.3 kg per capita in 2021), the uncertain economic environment, dependence on subsidies, and the consequences of climate change. We continue our sustainability investigations and research initiated in the previous year with the collaboration of several domestic universities. Our goal is to ensure that the project’s results are applicable in practice, thereby assisting our breeders. To facilitate more accurate information and extensive information gathering, we
are launching a website which will be available by the end of the year. Here, farmers, beef cattle keepers, Hereford breeders, participants in the beef industry, and consumers can learn about the challenges and opportunities of sustainable beef cattle farming. We presented at the 1st Conference on Sustainability in Győr and wrote articles on the results of research conducted in collaboration with universities.
In the selection of breeding animals, we continue to emphasize reproductive traits, which significantly influence economy, competitiveness, and sustainability. This year, we started the first SNP tests on the beef cattle of our association members, hoping to expand our opportunities related to the breed. Next year, we would like to join Breedplan for breeding value estimation.
To promote the breed, we plan to further strengthen our marketing activities in the future, aiming to encourage and engage the younger generation. Through our trading activities of breeding and slaughter animals, husbandry technology advice, and the organization of training sessions and professional programs, we strive to assist the members of the Hereford Association.
In addition to on-farm performance testing, the association conducts central performance tests, providing an opportunity for the production of breeding bulls from different farms in the same environment. With optimism and hope, we look to the future, focusing on promoting the Hereford breed and striving to provide accurate information through our work.
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Society Matters
New Zealand NZ Hereford breeders are benefiting from the power of genomics, which has increased accuracy and moved them closer to the ‘true’ genetic merit of an animal. The breeders who have been genomically testing for five years are seeing very little movement in their figures and are experiencing value in their financial outlay. Genotyping adoption continues to increase with more animals tested over the last year. (see bar graph) Beef + Lamb NZ are continuing with progeny trials for beef cattle and beef on dairy. Despite plenty of research and evidence on the power of hybrid vigour overseas, NZ commercial farmers have been very reluctant to use hybrid vigour, especially in a maternal cross such as Hereford x Angus. To try and change this, the current trial is focusing on hybrid vigour. The beef progeny trial started in 2020, on the crown-owned 1650ha sheep and cattle station called Kepler, which previously had an Angus breeding herd of 400 to 500 cows. To balance breeding cow numbers, surplus heifers were sourced from several well-known South Island Hereford breeders. Fourteen AI sires were used for the first mating. Ten new AI bulls were used over heifers and cows in 2021 and 400 cows and heifers were mated to 13 sires last year. The fourth round of AI mating started in December 2023.The trial has been capped at 500 animals with half Angus and half Herefords calving each year, but the numbers do fluctuate.
Allflex Coast to Coast Herd Tour
Top selling yearling bull in 2023 Mahuta Skywalker 2034 The trial is gauging how crossbred cows perform, measuring their longevity, robustness and the performance of their offspring. While it is still too early to quantify the total value of hybrid vigour in crossbred cattle from the programme, we are confident research results from the Kepler Farm will have a big influence on the NZ beef industry and will support the NZ Hereford marketing brand, HerefordX, The Best of Breeds. Kepler is proving they can produce more animals or bigger animals in the same time
frame or earlier processing at a suitable weight. Kepler Farm’s first crop of cattle – all out of yearling heifers and low birth weight bulls – averaged 275 kilograms, just under the farm’s target of 300kg at 18 months. In addition to hybrid vigour, for the first-time heifers were put through portable accumulation chambers (PACs) to take greenhouse gas (GHG) measures on these animals. Smaller versions of these chambers have been used in New Zealand to collect measurements on sheep. The purpose of this experiment, is to test the appropriateness of the chambers for taking GHG measures in beef cattle, and to see if the results scale up from sheep to beef. Rumen and buccal samples were also taken from each animal’s stomach and cheek. These samples are profiled using sequence microbial profiling technology,
39 NZ Hereford Youth Development forum which is currently being run on these animals at AgResearch. PACs would provide an easier, faster, and more cost-effective solution to scaling at an industry level. Gray Pannett, Robert Peacock and I had the privilege of viewing other methane measuring systems while we were on the Informing New Zealand Beef (INZB) funded study trip to America and Canada to attend The Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) Research Symposium (which happened to coincide with the Calgary Stampede, a lifelong bucket list dream). The trip was an incredible experience and one where we learnt about the impact of feedlots and the influence of external costs on finishing of cattle, which confirmed the differences in farm management and also choice of genetics. The scale of investment in universities and research we found staggering as well as encouraging, and the research on methane and CO2 emissions appeared to be well advanced. It was also a great opportunity to meet Michael Latimer from Canadian Hereford Association and also with the American Hereford’s team, Jack Ward, Shane Bedwell and Stacy Saunders, and so beneficial to share pain points and future strategies. I attended many of the southern Autumn bull sales located in the South Island and some of the
Beef + Lamb Genetics Progeny Test
Spring sales in Taranaki, west coast of the North Island, who cater for the dairy market. Just south of Auckland, the yearling bull Mahuta Skywalker 2034, made the headlines when he sold for $23,500. He illustrated how a moderate birth weight bull can profess to a top performance bull with growth and IMF. The Allflex Coast to Coast Herd Tour, was a highlight for many members. It was the first opportunity for the members to reconnect after hosting the World Hereford Conference and a great
Another highlight in the 2023 calendar was the Youth Development weekend. It’s great to see the NZ Hereford youth membership grow in popularity while their members gain confidence, as they judge and learn new skills. A team of 5 were fortunate to be hosted by Herefords Australia at their National Youth expo which continues to strengthen our Tran Tasman ties. The ABRI conference in Australia was beneficial to be at, so we could have an input during the planning stages of ILRLogic, and it also provided an excellent opportunity to catch up with our Australian colleagues and discuss some evaluation trails which we plan to action this year.
R Peacock and G Pannett visiting Olsen Ranch (AHA) and viewing a c-lock methane measurement device
NZ Herefords Team meet with the American Hereford Association team
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chance to visit Longacre, Glacier and Flagstaff studs situated on the West Coast of the South Island which due to their locality occasionally miss out.
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France Last summer marked a significant milestone for a group of French breeders. Supported by Eggsport, they successfully orchestrated the import of 13 pedigree polled Herefords. Among them were eight bulls and five heifers carefully selected from the Solpoll herd. Six enthusiastic French Hereford breeders from the northern half of France joined forces to bring these valuable genetics across the channel. Speaking openly, the breeders shared that the process was stressful and costly, but all concerned unanimously agreed it was worth the extra efforts to bring the bloodline to France. The group expressed how the McMordie family were invaluable in the success of the exercise - from the buying visit all the way through to the safe loading of the animals. The meticulous preparation and quality of the animals on offer only added to the buyer’s satisfaction.
The venture thought to be the most substantial export of UK pedigree beef cattle to France since the implementation of Brexit rules. The group are hopeful there will be an improved export procedure implemented in Calais. This development could significantly alleviate the burden of transportation and administrative costs. The French breeders are proud pioneers in enriching the genetic diversity of the Hereford breed in France, with excitement surrounding the addition of bloodlines like Promoter, Top Prize, Real Good, and Pacman.
Solpoll 1 Promoter The successful completion of this export signifies a triumph over logistical hurdles and establishes a foundation for future collaborations and exchanges within the international livestock community.
Buyers visit at Solitude farm
Uruguay We greet the UK Hereford Cattle Society from the lands of Uruguay. In this corner of the world, we are proud to share our history, our passion for breeding Hereford cattle and how we have forged global connections over the years. Our journey in breeding Hereford cattle began decades ago, guided by the vision of quality, resilience, and genetic excellence. The tradition of Hereford Uruguay is a history of dedication to the continuous improvement and wellbeing of our livestock. Hereford Uruguay is not only a benchmark in livestock breeding but has also contributed to the advancement of the industry through research, education and the promotion
of sustainable practices. At the heart of our operations is an unwavering commitment to genetic improvement. Through innovative programs, we have made significant progress in producing livestock with exceptional characteristics, ensuring the long-term sustainability of our industry.
Hereford Uruguay not only looks to the future in terms of genetic quality, but also in terms of sustainable practices. Our initiatives include the implementation of environmentally friendly practices, efficient resource management and promotion of biodiversity on our lands.
41 Genetic selection is a powerful tool to improve beef production sustainability, taking also into account the challenge of mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The Hereford Breeders’ Society of Uruguay and the National Agricultural Research Institute have been working on developing strategies to enhance sustainability and contribute to achieve the environmental targets defined by the Uruguayan government, in line with the international agreements that have been subscribed. Cutting methane emissions has received particular attention because it is a potent GHG and its reduction is expected to have a significant favourable impact on climate change. Cattle emit methane as a by-product of the digestive process that takes place in the rumen, explaining the relevance of the livestock sector as a source of methane in the national GHG inventories, particularly in those countries in which cattle production is economically significant, as is the case of Uruguay. Because developing strategies for methane mitigation via selective breeding requires information on methane emissions, this
trait started being measured in Uruguayan Hereford bulls and steers. Data is being collected using GreenFeed Emission monitoring systems, which facilitates large-scale recording of individual information of methane emission in a non-invasive way. Nowadays GreenFeed units are installed in the facilities where feed efficiency tests have been carried out since 2014, at the Kiyú Hereford Association Test Station. During these tests, individual feed intake is measured using an automated feeding system, and it is combined with data of metabolic body weight, average daily gain and subcutaneous fat depth (assessed by ultrasound) to calculate residual feed intake (RFI), a very well know measure of feed efficiency. It is important to mention that genomic breeding values for feed efficiency are available for Hereford breeders since 2017. The implementation of genomic selection to improve feed efficiency is based on the reference population build with data recorded in Kiyú. It has been integrated to the genetic evaluation as a key trait to increase profitability by reducing feed costs, due to lower feed intake, but without compromising animal performance. In addition to the economic impact, high feed efficiency measured by RFI has also been associated with lower
methane emissions. Measuring methane emissions in parallel with feed efficiency will provide the data needed to investigate the associations among feed intake, feed efficiency and methane emissions traits. By estimating these relationships, it would be possible to explore approaches of using breeding to improve feed efficiency and mitigate GHG emissions in beef cattle production systems. Another advantage is being able to evaluate not only the impact on absolute methane emissions (measured directly), but also methane intensity, which relates absolute emissions to animal performance, and methane yield that is defined as the ratio between methane and dry matter intake. Unravelling the genetic basis of the different traits that define beef cattle sustainability and investigating potential trade-off are key to maximise the potential of cattle breeding as an effective mitigation strategy, without compromising the economic and social relevance of the industry. We extend our gratitude to all those who have been part of our history and those who share our vision. With a continued commitment to quality, sustainability and global collaboration, Hereford Uruguay hopes to continue contributing.
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Sustainable beef production: Innovative research and development in Uruguayan Hereford
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Germany Like the last year, 2023 started in February with the Beef cattle bull Sales in various areas in Germany. In April at the National Beef cattle heifer sale, the 4 Hereford Heifers averaged €3,425. The top seller was the 2021 born heifer Liette, a daughter of the German bull RZW Frederic. She was sold for €5,000. Our first travel for breeders and members after Covid saw us head to the UK. 11 breeders attended the tour and the trip started on the 23rd of July with a flight to Birmingham. The next day we headed to the Royal Welsh Show to watch the Hereford cattle classes and enjoyed the hospitality of the Hereford Cattle Society. The tour moved on Tuesday to herd visits at Kingland Herefords and Pebworth Herefords. Then on Wednesday, the last day of our trip, we attended two more herd visits, this time to Normanton Herefords and Kinglee Herefords. All attendees were impressed by the quality of cattle we saw at the Royal Welsh and at the herd visits. We would like to thank Kingsland Herefords, Pebworth Herefords, Normanton Herefords and Kinglee Herefords for hosting us. A big thank you to the Hereford cattle society and Laura Bowyer for organising this trip for us. On the first weekend of September, we had our annual breeder meeting. This year’s host was Matthias Schneider, Elbweiderinder farm near the city of Torgau. Under the label of Elbweiderinder, Matthias sells beef from his home-reared cattle direct to customers located in and around the city of Leipzig. During our meeting we had the benefit of a walk around his processing facility and insight into Matthias methods. Around 80 members attended the meeting and had a beautiful weekend with a lot of information and herd visits. Members took the opportunity to visit the herd of Elbaue Herefords from Jutta Weigand and Jürgen Schubart, a neighbouring farm to Mattias.
Since releasing its strategic marketing plan, the Canadian Hereford Association has been hard at work fulfilling the six priorities laid out in the plan. 2023 initiated numerous new initiatives in line with these objectives. An exciting new opportunity being planned by the Canadian Hereford Association is a NextGen breeder conference. This event will be targeted towards young cattle producers between the ages of 18 and 35 to help youth exiting junior programming in Canada stay in the beef industry. In general, this age group has been identified as a priority as youth start to make decisions about their career and whether or not they want to return to the family farm, or in other cases, become a part of agriculture. The event will provide networking opportunities and handson learning to support young producers in their beef business endeavours. The Canadian Hereford Association has been working towards breed improvement priorities set out in its strategic marketing plan, including carcass quality. The Association launched a Carcass Merit Decision
43 Tool, which provides an analysis of each breeder’s herd sires and calf crop in terms of carcass EPDs. The tool is intended to help breeders select seedstock with superior carcass traits to continue to improve these attributes in the breed as a whole. 2024 will see the continued distribution of this tool. Major agricultural events across Canada saw markedly increased attendance in 2023 with strong international delegations. November marks a run of nationally attended cattle shows across Canada. Beginning in late October, Manitoba Ag Ex celebrated its 50th anniversary with the National Western Hereford Show. Both the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and Canadian Western Agribition saw Herefords reign supreme, with a Hereford mature cow-calf pair taking the Supreme Champion Female title at the Royal and a 2-year old Hereford bull winning Supreme Champion Bull at Agribition. Both victories were exciting moments for Hereford breeders across Canada and helped build excitement around the breed. The Canadian Junior Hereford Association hosted its annual junior show, Bonanza, in Prince Edward Island during July 2023. The event
welcomed a very strong contingent of over 150 junior members and over 180 cattle, which far surpassed expectations for attendance on the far east coast of the country. The national junior show offers a full suite of cattle conformation classes, but also a large variety of skills competitions for junior members to showcase their grooming, showmanship, public speaking, judging, marketing, and creative skills. In 2024, Bonanza will be hosted in Brandon, Manitoba at the Keystone Centre from July 24-27. 2023 marked another year of drought for a large portion of western Canada. The beginning of winter was unseasonably warm, easing pressures on feed supplies, but brought little snow to remedy the dry conditions of the summer. Fortunately, cattle prices have remained strong throughout the end of the year to balance out pressures from feed costs. Dry conditions have decreased the Canadian beef cattle herd substantially, forcing calf prices higher as feeders try to fill their capacity. Consumer demand for Canadian beef remains strong and supports continued strong prices into 2024.
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Canada
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UK Hereford Breeders Discover Canada’s Agribition Adventure A group of Hereford enthusiasts headed to Regina, Canada this Autumn, Maddie Clarke give us the scoop of all you can expect from 'Canadian Western Agribition'. Words by Maddie Clarke A group of 'young' Hereford enthusiasts headed to 'Canadian Western Agribition', an Agricultural show which is held at the end of November each year. Agribition is a premier event, renowed for being the best beef show in Northern America and the largest livestock show in Canada. The show boasts the best display of beef cattle from across Canada and America, all vying to win the most prestigious titles. Taking place over six days welcoming over 1,200 international guests from over 63 countries. A group of us set off for an adventure across the Atlantic. Arriving in Regina the day before the show meant we were able to acquaint ourselves with the best places for steak and a good beer! Some of the team decided to visit a local Angus Ranch called Brooking Angus, owned by Justin Morrison. We were lucky to see an array of fantastic cattle and visit such a prestigious herd. We quickly became acquainted with the type of cattle we would see in abundance throughout the week.
Day one The show began quietly, with the 4H stock judging competition taking place throughout the day. A group of us watched the clipping and dressing demonstration from Kirk Stierwalt, which was very educational. Whilst the event was slower, it offered us the prime opportunity to look around the cattle in the stalls and all the breeds available. With over 1,500 cattle at the show, it was an amazing experience to move
through the barns. We finished the day off right with a steak, of course accompanied by wine at a restaurant called ‘The Keg’. Ending the night with a trip to a karaoke bar. Here Andrew entered the stage to sing his classic rendition of ‘Delilah’.
Day two We headed back to the event to watch the first of the shows. The First Lady Classic & Futurity and the Presidents Classic. The First Lady Classic is open for heifers born in 2022 across all breeds. The champion from each breed then go head-to-head to claim the Fairy Lady Classic title. This competition is judged by a panel of four judges including one junior judge which won the 4H judging competition the day prior. We then moved on to watch the First Lady Classic Futurity Show, this is for the heifers who have been shown in the previous years ‘First Lady Classic’ returning to the ring with a calf at foot. With over 100 entries, the ‘First Lady Classic’ was a serious spectacle. That evening we attended the Presidents International Reception held at the Casino. We all enjoyed the array of food available alongside drinks. Here myself
and Tom decided we would try Black Jack and with my charm, we managed to come across two Canadian Hereford Breeders who gave us a kick start and helping hand. With beginners’ luck Tom began to wrap up the chips, nearly loosing them all I sent him away for a drink. When he returned, to his surprise I’d managed to recover the lost chips and we ended up walking away a few hundred dollars up, having put nothing of our own down. It was a very memorable night!
Day three As a group we spent our third day watching various breeds judging such as the Simmental and Speckle Park classes, following on to the Angus Jackpot show in the evening. This was a fun and unique event to watch. Two judges had 30 seconds to judge two animals, drawn at random to go head-to-head, this would repeat until they achieved their Overall Champion who then would take home the jackpot money. We all took a trip for some western retail therapy to stores such as Cown Town, Cabelas and Lammle’s. We managed to kit Tom out with new cowboy boots so he officially looked the part.
45 It was the 52nd Canadian Western Agribition Hereford Sale, offering 14 lots to potential purchasers, this included heifers, semen, flushes, and embryos. The top price was for lot 1 Glenlees 240J Beth 20L fetching $22,000 Canadian dollars for a half share at just 9 months old. Behind heifer Beth, was lot 9, the rights flush ANL C 36G Maple 34C 60J which sold for $16,500. Overall the four heifer calves averaged $14,375, the in calf heifers averaged $10,000, embryos $3,000 and the semen lots $4,750. The day was topped by a visit to Maple Leaf Finals Rodeo. An absolute highlight of the week and was a brilliant spectacle. Again, we went out for another steak at easily the fanciest restaurant I had been to.
Day five The day we’d all been waiting for – Hereford Show Day. Judging commenced at 9am with horned and polled Herefords shown separately. Both the horned and polled Herefords were judged by Trent and Garret Liebreich. There were 26 entries in the horned cattle section, across 19 classes. The Grand Champion, horned female was Harvie VLE Riesling ET 81L, a February ’23-born calf. The National Polled Show saw 120 entries on parade, comprising of 79 females and 41 bulls. The Grand Male Polled Champion went to Glenlees AXA Evolve ET 112J. Born March 2021 a son of NJW 79Z Z311
Endure 173D ET, out of RVP 106A Cameo Girl 45C. Evolve went on to win the Overall Supreme Champion bull on the final day at the show, making him the Overall Champion Bull across all breeds at the show. A fantastic outcome! No stranger to Agribition, entering the ring firstly in 2021 taking the Junior Bull Calf and then again in 2022 claiming reserve in the Grand Bull Championship. Once the Hereford showing had concluded we headed to watch the coolest and wackiest competition that I have ever seen – Wild Cow Milking! Two teams of four compete in the arena, with one from each team on horseback. Two wild cows were let into the arena and which ever team could catch the cow the quickest and take milk from her collected in a bottle, wins.
Day six Saturday the 25th was the final day at the show and the day of the Agribition Beef Supreme.
Supreme and Grand Champions from major livestock shows across North America are invited to join Agribition Grand Champion bulls and females to compete for the Supreme Champion title. This elite, multi-breed competition was judged by a panel of five respected cattle producers. Over 100 head of cattle competed to be the best of the best from across Canada and the United States. It must be one of the most amazing cattle competitions any of us have seen. The atmosphere and buzz about the place was incredible. The honour was given to a Simmental heifer (GVR Miss Peppa 21J) with a calf at foot winning for the female proportion, however the Herefords came out on top in the bulls with Glenlees AXA Evolve ET 112J winning the Grand Champion Bull. We finished our last night at a Steakhouse, where we consumed our last Canadian steak. Leaving for the airport at 4:30am with a long journey ahead, we had chance to reflect on the passing week. We were all in agreement at what an incredible experience it had been living in Regina, meeting old friends and new. We were made to feel welcome by everyone and it is a trip I would recommend to anyone interested in any breed of cattle or an interest in agriculture. For those interested in attending, it is good to note that Agribition have an international buyers’ program that offers funding to anyone interested in purchasing or doing business at the show. Written by: Maddie Clarke
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Day four
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Australia Australian CEO Michael Crowley leading the focus on sustainability. And Herefords Australia is making sure the breed is well-placed for the future to keep hitting the mark. Herefords Australia CEO Michael Crowley says the breed is taking steps to excel in sustainability, after it was announced as a major focus at the Herefords Australia AGM recently. “Sustainability is one of the largest macrotrends in the global red meat industry,” he said. “Australia is taking a leading position, and as a breed that’s something we want to get behind.” He said sustainability included making improvements environmentally, economically and socially. “From an economic sustainability point of view, we can produce more kilograms of beef at younger ages of superior quality, producers will be rewarded for quality, have lower cost of production, and that will generate more income to invest back into their properties - to improve pastures, to improve genetics, and have a more efficient supply chain,” he said. “A more productive and efficient supply chain will deliver significant environmental benefits with reduced inputs, shorter days to slaughter and more kilograms of beef per hectare. “There’s also benefits for our customers in that there is more demand for our product, there’s less food waste, and consumers are willing to pay more for better quality.” He said Herefords had a long and strong history as a foundation breed and a major breed in the country. “We’re coming off very strong foundations but we’ve seen the market dynamics change so much, and that’s why we’re looking to set Hereford cattle up for the future.
We are taking a leadership position in sustainability in this country, and we’re going to be driving that pretty hard,” he said. Genomic testing will play a big role. “We’re embracing genetic technology to help identify more of those animals that are doing a great job across a broad range of traits, and we can drive faster rates of genetic gain on the key traits that will help us deliver more efficient production systems and better eating quality outcomes for our commercial customers and our supply chain.” Mr Crowley said a focus on hard-tomeasure traits was part of the plan. “Traits like feed efficiency and carcase traits are focus points, while also making sure that we don’t compromise fertility, longevity and weight for age. “Our ability to finish on grass and grain are real features of the breed, so we want to make sure we build on all of the things we do well, and then use these technologies to help us make progress on the hardto-measure traits.” Herefords Australia has also been working with its members to collate the data and evidence from the MSA database. More than 15,000 carcase records were contributed from all eastern states over the first few weeks of the initiative. “With an average MSA index of 60 for grass-fed production, this outcome exceeds most major customer brand specifications and places the breed at the top end of quality when benchmarked across the country.” He said collation of voluntary contributions of MSA carcase data would be an ongoing initiative for the breed. He said the AGM held at the national show and sale was a great chance to take stock of how the breed was performing. “When I look across the breed, the quality of the cattle continues to improve.
Australian CEO Michael Crowley “We’re really looking to drive things forward and differentiate ourselves and reconnect with the commercial sector because there’s so many things we do well. “If we become outcome focused, we can work with our commercial sector partners to ensure we deliver those outcomes they need.” Mr Crowley said Herefords were renowned for their fantastic traits. “Hereford cattle have a tremendous reputation for being docile, easy to handle and fertile. There are fewer bull breakdowns leading to lower cost per calf produced, and females retained in herds for a long time because they have a calf every year.” He said there were huge benefits of crossing Herefords with other breeds. “In southern systems there is crossing with other British breeds to improve productivity and finishing ability through hybrid vigour, and when you go further north, looking at the key profit drivers in northern Australia, fertility is a huge one - producing more calves per cow joined, more kilos of beef produced per hectare per 100 millimetres of rainfall,” he said. “Herefords over Bos Indicus cattle drives improvement in fertility and carcase quality outcomes, as well as making sure the weight for age and productivity gains are there. There are some big opportunities across a range of production systems.”
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World Hereford Council – secretary general - Larry Feeney Email: worldherefordcouncil@gmail.com
Member countries
American Hereford Association Jack Ward, Executive Vice President Box 014059, 1501 Wyandotte, Kansas City, Missouri, 64108-1222, USA Phone: 1-816-842-3757 Fax: 1-816-842-6931 www.hereford.org/ Email: aha@hereford.org
Asociacion Argentina Criadores de Hereford Manuel Obarrio 2948, C1425CQB - Buenos Aires, Argentina Mr. Augustin Arroyo, General Manager Phone: 54-11-4802-1019 Fax: 54-11-4802-1019 Email: info@hereford.org.ar www.hereford.org.ar
Herefords Australia Ltd.
Lisa Sharp General Manager Locked Bag 7, Armidale NSW 2350, Australia 16 Uralla Road, Armidale NSW 2350 Australia Phone: 02 6772 1399 Mobile: 0447 949 650 Fax: 02 6772 1615 www.herefordsaustralia.com.au Email: lsharp@herefordsaustralia.com.au
Canadian Hereford Association
Mr. Stephen Scott, Executive Director 5160 Skyline Way N.E., Calgary, Alberta, T2E 6V1, Canada Phone: 1-403-275-2662 Fax: 1-403-295-1333 www.hereford.ca Email: stephen@hereford.ca
Danish Hereford Association
President, Knud Erichsen Skibstedgaard 0045 40196310 www.hereford.dk Email: skibstedgaard@skibstedgaard.dk
Animal Breeders Association of Estonia General Manager: Tanel Bulitko Hereford Director: Mr. Aigar Suurmaa 79005, Rapla County, Estonia Phone: 372-4873-181 Fax: 372-4890-680 Hereford Director: Mr. Aigar Suurmaa Phone: 372-742-1575 Fax: 372-742-2879
Finnish Hereford Association Chairman:Kai Pastell Innilantie 113, 37500 Lempaala, Finland www.hereford.fi Email: hereford@hereford.fi
German Hereford Association
Irish Hereford Breed Society
Ms. Louise Callan, Acting Secretary Harbour Street, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, Ireland Phone: 353-44-48855 Fax: 00-353-44-48949 www.irishhereford.com Email: irishhereford@gmail.com
Kazakhstan Hereford Association
Kenesary 40, Street Business center “7th Continent” office 1206, 1205. 12 Floor 010000, Nur-Sultan city, Kazakhstan Phone: +7 7172 279 002, +7 7172 279 996, +7 771 532 002. www.herefords.kz Email: info@herefords.kz, director@ herefords.kz
New Zealand Hereford Association Inc.
Mrs Posy Moody, General Manager Hereford House, Box 503, Feilding, New Zealand Phone: +64 6323 4484 www.herefords.co.nz Email: manager@herefords.co.nz
Norway Hereford Association Mr. Inge G. Kristoffersen, President Storhamargata 44, 2317 Hamar, Norway Phone: +47 915 45 613 www.hereford.no Email: post@hereford.no Email: inge.g.k@online.no
The Norwegian Breeding Association
Storhamargata 44, 2317 Hamar, Norway Director: Halvor Nordli Phone: +47 952 90 855 Fax: +47 62 53 82 41 Email: tyr@tyr.no
Paraguay Hereford Association
Oficina de Registro Genealogico de la Asociación Rural del Paraguay Ing. Carlos Pedretti, Ruta Transchaco Km. 14 ½ Mariano Roque Alonso, Asunción, Paraguay Phone: 011-595-21-754412 E-mail: secretaria@orzarp.org.py
South African Hereford Breeders Society
Contact: Liezel Grobler P.O. Box 20165, Willows, BFN 9320, South Africa Phone: 051 410 0958 Fax: 086 218 8246 www.hereford.co.za E-mail: liezel@studbook.co.za Promotions: Lizette Vermaak Phone: 082 412 2868 Email: herefords@vodamail.co.za
c/o Carsten Schmit Neuer Kamp 38, 30900 Wedemark, Germany Fax: 49-5130-925023 www.hereford-germany.de Email: info@hereford-deutschland.de
Swedish Hereford Association
Henk Kuipers Horstingerend 7, 7843 TE Erm, The Netherlands Tel. 0591-564135 www.hereford.nl Email: henkensonjakuipers@kpnplanet.nl
Swiss Hereford Association
Dutch Hereford Association
Hungarian Hereford Association
Dr. Istvan Marton, General Manager H-7400 Kaposvar, Denesmajor 2, Hungary Phone: 36-82-3-16-610 Fax: 36-82-510-046 www.mhagte.hu, www.hereford.hu E-mail: hereford@t-online.hu; info@ mhagte.hu
Magnus Johansson, Chariman Hollstorp Hagalund, 355 91 Växjö, Sweden Phone: +46 470 749 461 or +46 768 303 600 www.hereford.nu Email: magnus.johansson@hereford.nu Walter Faessler, President Interessengemeinschaft Schweizer Herefordzuechter, c/o Walter Faessler, Barenegg, 9633 Baechli-Hemberg Switzerland www.swisshereford.ch Email: barenegg.hereford@bluewin.ch
Hereford Cattle Society (UK) Mr Paul Sneyd, Director of Operations Hereford House, 3 Offa Street Hereford, HR1 2LL U.K Phone: +44 1 432 272 057 Fax: +44 1 432 377 529 www.herefordcattle.org Email: postroom@herefordcattle.org
Sociedad Criadores de Hereford del Uruguay
Dr. Alejandro Costa Irigoyen, President Mercedes 855 Esc 605 CP 11.100, Montevideo, Uruguay Phone/fax 0059 2908 7579 - 2901 0437 www.hereford.org.uy Email: info@hereford.org.uy
Non-member countries
Associação Brasileira de Hereford e Braford
Luciano Augusto Sperotto Terra, President Av. General Osório 1094 Caixa Postal 483, Bage - RS - Brasil Phone: 55 (xx)(53) 3312 8726 Fax: 55 (0xx53) 3242 1332 www.hereford.com.br www.braford.com.br Email: hereford@braford.com.br
Asociacion de Criadores de Hereford de Chile Fernando Schuck R, President Casilla (P.O. Box) 703, Osono, Chile Phone: 56-64-234388 Fax: 56-64-238408 E-mail: fschuck@surnetlibre.cl
Czech Republic Hereford Association
Czech Beef Cattle Association KAMIL MALÁT, CEO Těšnov 17, 110 00 Praha 1, Czech Republic Phone: +420 221 812 865 GSM: +420 724 007 860 email: info@cschms.cz
Association Hereford France Pascal Bastien, President 10 rue de la fontaine, 57170 BAGNEUX, France Phone: +33 615177610 Pascal Bastien Email: pascal.bastien@orange.fr www.hereford-france.com
Hokkaido Beef Cattle Club
c/o Yuji Ikeda - Shintoku Animal Husbandry Experiment Station Tokiwa 5-46, Shintoku-cho Hokkaido, T088 2313, Japan Phone: 1566-4-5321 Fax: 1566-4-6151
Mexican Hereford Association
Octavio Bermudez, President Bosque de Yuriria 2701-2, Fracc. Sicomoros Chihuahua, Chih. 31260, Mexico Phone: 52-410-7493
Polski Związek Hodowców
I Producentów Bydła Mięsnego (Polish Association of Beef Cattle Breeders and Producers) ul. Rakowiecka 32, 02 - 532 Warszawa Poland NIP 527-20-04-291 Phone: (+48 22) 849-19-10 Fax: (+48 22) 849-32-32 www.bydlo.com.pl E-mail : bydlo@bydlo.com.pl
Herd Book Society of Zambia Hereford Breed Section Mrs. Joan Holmes, General Manager P.O. Box 50146, Lusaka 15101, Zambia Phone/Fax: 260-1-251149
Zimbabwe Hereford Society Mr. Phil Rogers, Chairman P.O. Box FM80, Famona, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe Phone: 263-09-229-588 Fax: 263-09-74839 Email: herefordzw@hotmail.com
Society Matters
Associations and clubs around the world
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Society Matters
Linear Assessment With linear assessment a new tool to members, we take a closer look at progress so far.
Update from NBDC's Meurig James NFU Success for Young Breeder There are other breeds showing an 90 and above. There are other breeds showing an interest. If you have a problem in your herd If you have a problem in your herd interest. for example with legs + feet then example with legs and feet then When scoring suckler cows we When scoring suckler cows we youfor need a bull from a cow family you need a bull from a cow family break them down into four main break them down into four main with a high score well over 90 in with a high score well over 90 boxes being boxes being legs + feet to improve them, not in legs and feeta to improve them, not a bull -Body Conformationwhich • Body Conformationwhich a bull from cow that has a high makesmakes up 25% of the final score, score in the three other boxes but in from a cow that has a high score up 25% of the final score, -Beef Characterwhich also takes perhaps VG 88 in Legs + Feet, the three other boxes but perhaps • Beef Character- which also takes into account BreedBreed Character, this whereas you have really VG 88if in Legs and Feet,good whereas if into account Character, box also makes up 25% of the final legsyou + feet in really your herd and need have good legs and feet this box also makes up 25% of score. to improve udders then that in your herd and need to improve the final score. -Legs + Feet- this important box particular bull may be ideal. udders then that particular bull may With linear assessment being has• a weighting Legs and Feetthis of 30% ofimportant the final beof ideal. available since May 2023, score,box has a weighting of 30% of the Some the other benefits include With linear assessment being final score, has a weighting of identifying females in include Meurig James, Head of NBDC, -MammarySome ofthe thebest other benefits available since May 2023, 20% of the final score, • Mammaryhas a weighting of your herds to breed replacements offersJames, his assessment of the identifying the best females in your Meurig Head of NBDC, These20% 4 composite boxes are and of course cows that are of the final score, offers his of the breed soassessment far. herds to breed replacements and made up of different Linear Traits scored the highest points more breed so far. of course cows that are scored the These composite which arefour measured on a boxes 1 to 9 are often than not make the highest Classification was set up over highest points more made up of different Linear Traits scale. prices at sales if you selloften them.than not Classification set up 50 50 years agowas in order toover identify make the highest prices at sales if which are measured on a 1 to 9 years ago in order identify thein the strengths andtoweaknesses you sell them. Without going into too much detail Another strength of the classificascale. strengths and weaknesses in dairy cows. Although it was British and complicating the whole issue, tion system is that we can always dairy cows. Although it was British Another strength of the Without going into too much detail change Friesians that were the first breed breeders and farmers simply need the traits we score and Friesians that was the first breed classification system is that we can and complicating the whole issue, to remember that the 4 composite change the weightings of the that we started classifying, all the that we started classifying all the always change breeders andscored farmersinsimply boxes are never the high composite boxes ifthe thetraits needwe score other dairy breeds soon followed other dairy breeds soon followed andso change the weightings of the eighties and over ninety unless the arises, that we continue need to remember that the four with more less identical with more oror less anan identical composite boxes the need linear traits areboxes close are to ideal. the herd if if certain newarises, composite never scored improving system scoring similartraits. traits. system scoring similar so that we continue improving the weaknesses creep into the breed. in the high eighties and over ninety Where as so many indexes is a The classification scheme has been I herd if certain new weaknesses The classification scheme has unless the linear traits are close to have beeninto very impressed a success story overover many decades prediction, classification is creep the breed. with been a success story many ideal. actual and I believe that is why the majority of the Herefords that I and hasand made tremendous decades hasamade a tremenI have been very impressed they both work well together as a have already scored. The breedwith the Where as so many indexes is contribution to the dous contribution to improvement the improve- of majority of the Herefords that I have management tool for breeding certainly has longevity although prediction, classification is actual ment of both herdson both type and herds typeonand production already scored. The breed certainly more profitable long living cows. some cows could be a little milkier and I believe that is why they both production not only throughout not only throughout the UK but which is important whether has longevity although some cows the UK but throughout work well together as a management throughout the world.the world. One of the many benefits of breeding or crossing could pure be a little milkier with which is tool for breeding more profitable classification is when buying a other breeds, The breed has a pure Some 7 or years ago certain important whether breeding Some 7 or 88 years ago certain long living cows. future Stock Bull at a Society Sale, lot to the beef industry as a The individuals involved thebreedbreeding oroffer crossing with other breeds, individuals involved ininthe which is a very important task, the suckler cow and her ability to One of the many benefits of ingofofboth both dairy and beef cattle dairy and beef cattle breed has a lot to offer the beef buyer can see the classification of graze whether on the hills or on thought that if if classification classification is when buying a thought that classificationhad had industry as a suckler cow and her the mother and sometimes three the lowlands and I can assure you worked soso well inin the future Stock Bull at a Society Sale, worked well thedairy dairyworld world to graze will whether or four generations. thatability classification proveon tothe hills then why couldn’t this which is a very important task, the be another then why couldn’t thisbebethe thecase case or on the lowlands and I can management tool toassure with beef cattle. buyer can see the classification of with beef cattle. you that prove to I personally believe that the cow enhance theclassification many virtueswill of the the needs mothertoand sometimes three or breed. be another management tool to family be at least in the Beef Shorthorns was thethe first beef Beef Shorthorns were first beef high VG’s which means the high four generations. enhance the many virtues of the breed wewe started scoring breed started scoringclosely closely Text by: Meurig James eighties and into EX which means breed. followed by the Simmentals personally believe that the cow followed by the Simmentalsand and we 90 Iand Head Classifier at National above. wenow nowclassify classify total 8 dairy family needs to be at least in the aa total ofof eight dairy Text Data by: Meurig James Bovine Centre (NBDC) breeds and 11 beef breeds includhigh VG’s which means the high breeds and 11 beef breeds including Head Classifier at National Bovine ing the Herefords. eighties and into EX which means the Herefords. Data Centre (NBDC)
49 In the context of a pedigree dairy herd, it serves as a crucial tool, playing a pivotal role in safeguarding the quality of dairy lineages.
With Linear Assessment a new feature for the Hereford Cattle Society, breeders Alan and Sue Timbrell share why they believe it will be an integral tool and why more breeders need to book their assessment. Without delving too deeply, you will see the unmistakable traces of Alan and Sue Timbrell’s dairy farming heritage. Distinct markers in their overall farming perspective, coupled with the pairs current farming methods reveal subtle cues. Much like how the blue walls of their now retired milking parlour echoes the farm’s earlier occupation. Following a fruitful career overseeing the milking of the family’s Ayrshire & Holstein herds, Alan and Sue reached a pivotal moment when they decided to retire from the milking routine. Although they were ready to hang up their milking aprons, the prospect of parting ways with cattle seemed an unbearable prospect. In 2010, marking the conclusion of an era, the milking parlour completed its final cycle, and as the dairy herd dispersed, it paved the way for a new venture to take root.
Alan expresses genuine enthusiasm when discussing the incorporation of this method within the Hereford Cattle Society, a practice that he had been so dependent on during his dairy career. He passionately outlines its myriad benefits and articulates his strategic plans to leverage this valuable tool. Furthermore, he advocates for its widespread adoption, encouraging others within the community to embrace and harness its advantages.
Benefits of showcase assessment at sales. “When considering acquiring an animal off-farm at sales, the chance to visit the holding and assess the dam and the cow family might not always be available. While examining the Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) provides valuable insights,” Alan explains, “it falls short in offering a comprehensive view of the bull or heifer’s dams and granddam confirmation, structure, and overall soundness.” “If you seek to enhance the locomotion of your herd and the dam of a potential investment is labelled as ‘fair’ or ‘poor’ in this regard, acquiring from that family may not yield the desired outcome. Similarly, when comparing two animals with comparable Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) and similar phenotypes, the one with a cow
family marked as ‘Very Good’ and ‘Excellent’ holds greater value than the counterpart with a family rated ‘Good’ and ‘Fair.’ Investing in the former is a wiser choice and should demand a higher price.” “An assessment also cuts through the condition that an animal holds to be ‘show standard’. Fat can help improve an appearance, sometimes work to hide flaws but having the assessment can reveal any strengths or weaknesses.” Seeing Holstein herds sell with cows advertised with twenty generations of very good and excellent, buyers actively look for animals with positive patterns to up the probability of success at sales. This has become a proven tool to gaining interest at sales with animals holding ten generations of very good and excellent not seeing the same uplift in price.
TB Restrictions - Safeguarding Visibility of Herds Quality. For Alan the implementation of the linear scoring within the society came too late. Up until recently he retained cow families back to the foundation cows. This would have been the ultimate shop window for his herd, especially given recent time restrictions preventing him from participating in cattle shows. Having the opportunity to assess his cows earlier would have enabled Alan to establish evidence of a lineage of consistently high- quality cows all documented and assessed by an independent
Sue grew up on a beef and pig farm near the Seven Bridge and Alan had worked on and off the farm alongside a long career within the dairy genetic industry working for Alta Genetics. For both, cattle hold a profound place within their identities. With a passion for pedigrees, their Hereford herd, Thames Herefords began. Linear assessment has been a wellknown practice in the dairy industry for decades.
Meurig James assessing the Fisher Herd, owned by Reg Hutchings
Society Matters
Linear Assessment, a tool to advance your herd
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Society Matters
landscape encompasses permanent leys in addition to GS4 crops. A rye grass mix succeeds the crop, strategically employed to mitigate soil erosion, particularly significant given the farm’s proximity to the flowing river Thames which is half a mile away.
Meurig James assessing the Fisher Herd, owned by Reg Hutchings providing potential buyers with a demonstration of reliability all the way back to the source. Unfortunately, this wasn’t possible as the herd had to be shut down due to a tuberculosis (TB) outbreak, with the foundation cow testing positive, preventing the desired demonstration of lineage reliability. With the recent assessment of the herd, in the event of another TB occurrence, Alan and Sue have safeguarded the history of their animals by commissioning evidence of the cows within their herd, this is locked in and can never change, even if stock count is affected. If animals are having to be compulsory culled, despite the knock back by losing the animal they can still showcase the scores, minimising any holes in lineage patterns.
Breeding selection and herd progression After the assessment of their herd, the Timbrells hold a clear stance on the next steps. If an animal doesn’t attain a high ranking within their brackets—for instance, a first-time calver unable to reach the “Good Plus” bracket would not be bred back, she would go for culling and not sold for breeding—they would expect her to achieve at least a “very good” status after her 2nd calf occasionally accepting a “Good Plus” status dependant on circumstances. However, anything below the standard of “Very Good”
by her 3rd calf will result in the animal leaving the farm as a fat cow. “I firmly believe in not selling an animal for breeding that I wouldn’t wish to breed from myself; it does more harm to the breed than good,” says Alan. On their holding, all animals are registered as pedigree at birth—a practice both Alan and Sue encourage more breeders in high-risk TB areas to adopt for maximum compensation if any animals test positive, often referring to this method as added ‘insurance’. However, when an animal exhibits undesirable breeding traits – facing a difficult calving, or receives an unfavourable linear assessment, it is promptly an annual activity and for Alan one that he’ll look forward to each year. Walking the farm, he refers to an animal now as her family and her assessment score and then onwards to her progeny. Proud proof of his effective selection process. Moving forward the couple would like to see the adoption of bulls being assessed helping to make up a much fuller picture of breeding potential as they can lead to potential break downs within lines.
Farm profile The Timbrells’ holding accommodates 85 animals, comprising 36 breeding cows, youngstock, and 2 stock bulls. Spanning over 141 acres, the
First-time calvers are mostly naturally served and they aim to calve at the age of two years, provided they reach an adequate size. Operating within a spring, February, March and autumn, September to October calving block pattern offers a strategic approach. This system allows any females that may not have achieved sufficient size during the first calving block an opportunity to mature further, ensuring they are ready for the subsequent block. This approach maximises their longevity within the herd. Additionally, this calving pattern aligns with bull sales, strategically ensuring that the animals are at their peak condition to appeal to both commercial and pedigree enterprises. As a standard, in-calf cows are bolused with an iodine capsule to address an on-site deficiency. Newborn calves receive 2.5 litres of Calf Choice Total colostrum within 30 minutes of birth, administered either through a bottle or tube. Seven weeks prior to weaning, the calves are introduced to a 16% protein concentrate, provided as creep feed, with a maximum limit of 1.8 kg per head. Calves born in February and March undergo and helps obtain replacement animals to supplement the herd. This year using Marwarra Showtime and Square-D-Timeline, alongside Kinglee 1 Verlou have been used. This aids in adding new blood into the herd for perhaps a future herd sire. All animals are calved indoors in the spring and then turned out at 10 days if ground conditions allow, once Alan and Sue are happy that they can thrive. During housing, a segregation strategy is implemented based on
separate drafted into When theshed time and comes for the gendered groups. calves to be separated from their
belief that conducting this test any earlier would be overly unnecessary as the results invasive. consistently come back clear. Bulls scoring below 3 in the semen Bulls undergo semen testing at test are promptly deregistered, 17 months age.animals Allan holds the ensuring thatofonly belief that conducting this test any with satisfactory reproductive capabilities contribute to the earlier would be overly invasive. breeding program. This meticulous Bulls scoring below in the semen approach reflects the 3 committest are promptly deregistered, ment to maintaining the overall quality andthat effectiveness of the ensuring only animals herd’s with satisfactory reproductive capabilities contribute to the breeding program. This meticulous approach reflects the commitment to maintaining the overall quality and effectiveness of the herd’s
Discover the value Linear Scoring can add to your herd. Scan the QR code to visit the Hereford Cattle Society websites page covering Linear Scoring, here you will find the latests pricings and contact details. If you run a small herd and are interested, please contact the Hereford Cattle Society.
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gendered groups. All breeding cows are housed together awaiting mothers, they are relocated to a turnout. separate shed and drafted into gendered groups. a Allcomprehenbreeding All heifers undergo sive health regimen. They are cows are housed together awaiting vaccinated turnout. for Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR) All heifers undergo a and Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD), comprehensive health regimen. tagged, and undergo testing. This isThey all done so there is no of are vaccinated forchance Infectious bringing these diseases in from Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR) other holdings.The farm maintains and Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD), a Johnes high health herd status, tagged, and undergo testing. This regularly testing for is all done so there is no chance of bringing these diseases in from Leptospirosis, although vaccination is unnecessary themaintains results other holdings.The as farm consistently come back clear. a Johnes high health herd status, Bulls undergo semen testing at 17 regularly testing for Leptospirosis, months of age. Allan holds the although vaccination is
Society Matters
gender, ensuring that the herd is housed with their respective calf gender, ensuring that the herd is genders. At the weaning stage, a housed with their respective calf deliberate and gradual separation genders. Atemployed. the weaning stage, a process is Using livestock barriers, the young stock deliberate and gradual separation is dividedisfrom their mothers process employed. Using for a period of barriers, seven tothe tenyoung days. This livestock stock method allows for a controlled is divided from their mothers for a and progressive weaning process, period ofthe seven to ten days. This enabling young stock to return method allows for a controlled intermittently to help facilitate the and progressive weaning process, gradual drying off of the cows as well as minimise stress fortoboth enabling the young stock return parties. intermittently to help facilitate the gradual drying off of the cows as When the time comes for the well as minimise stress for both calves to be separated from their parties. mothers, they are relocated to a
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Embryo Transfer What is the deal? Genetics has a key role to play in improving the long-term performance of every livestock herd; but genetic progress from the maternal side can be slow as females typically only produce one calf per year. In contrast, a single bull of high genetic merit can produce thousands of offspring through artificial insemination (AI). Back in 1923, it was stated in a breed journal that AI was a cumbersome procedure that would never be widely used and yet, between 1990 and 2017, units of beef semen sales increased by 145% and is estimated to have nearly doubled between 2021 and 2024 (Genus ABS) This progress is not just about utilising male genetics through AI but also utilising the best of the female traits. Adopting technologies such as conventional embryo flushing (MOET) and in vitro production (IVP) to maximise the offspring from your herd's superior dams will help accelerate herd progress. Increasing the longterm productivity, sustainability and profitability of herds has never been as important as it is today. Selecting the herd's higher quality
dams to be programmed for either a MOET or IVP programme and transferring the embryos into the least efficient 25% of your herd can generate improved offspring achieving quicker genetic progress.
Using advanced breeding technologies in block calving systems can lead to more calves being born at the start of the calving window, increasing weight at market and improving returns, with studies showing increased weaned weight per calf in comparison to calves born later in the window. This improves efficiency and also helps reduce the disease risk. Realising the positive impact we can achieve through utilising the full potential of innovative breeding technologies will not only aid sustainability and genetic progress, but also profitability. Farmers shouldn’t see these advanced breeding technologies as yesterday’s cumbersome procedure, but as today’s valuable tool. - Imogen Threlfall, IVP Lab Technician
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Hereford Beef Beef Hereford 54 54
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Hereford Beef
Hereford Beef Within this section ● Ask the Butcher ● Hereford beef wins Good Taste awards ● Dunbia update ● Fresh look for Beef Marketing ● Hereford Producers
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Hereford Beef
Ask the Butcher Matt Slack, E V Slack & Sons, Doncaster Alongside farming across 90 acres in Doncaster, Matt Slack heads up a family butchery, E V Slack and Sons - a business set up post foot and mouth to support the farming enterprise. The venture boasts an on-farmslaughterhouse, aiding to control over the quality of products supplied to customers over the counter and other local businesses. One of a dwindling number of privately owned abattoirs, the facility is an asset for the local community. A passion for championing British produce, created by the hard work and long hours put in by farmers and food producers, Matt began posting videos online in 2020. You may know him as the butcher, a carcass on a hook and a large knife. A knife affectionately coined as the ‘chopper’! These videos have captured the attention of a generation unfamiliar with the sight of meat not contained within a plastic packet.
Audiences cannot get enough of the straight-talking insight supplied by Matt, into what makes a good cut and what happens behind the counter. With 129,000 followers, fast on the rise, Matt uses his platform to add energy to the sector. This effort has been recently recognised at this year’s British Farming Awards. Seeing him heading back to the shop with a gold award within the digital innovator category to display pride of place on the counter. We catch up with Matt to ask a few questions. When looking for a beef carcass what are the main qualities you as a butcher want to see? When looking for a beef carcass the main qualities that I’d look for are a decent covering of fat, plenty of width in the loin and not overly big in the hind quarters. You’ve been known to champion Hereford beef as being the best of British – what is it about Hereford beef that means it earns a place on your counter? Hereford beef has a flavour and taste that cannot be matched by continental breeds and we find customers who buy Hereford beef always return for more.
57 These days I always asked for my steak to be cooked rare – good beef should never be over cooked. Marbling is the current buzz word in the supermarket, but this isn’t new to butchers, can you explain what marbling is and what it does? Marbling is the right consistency of fat to meat ratio. Too much fat means you are paying for fat rather than meat but there has to be a certain amount of fat running through the meat. The fat stops the meat from drying out during cooking and enhances the flavour. What’s your opinion on fat on a cut? All cuts of meat need to have a certain amount of fat but some joints such as brisket would be ruined if they have too much fat. Why does meat in a butcher’s shop have so much colour? Most butchers will slaughter and hang beef for the correct amount of time to enhance the colour and the flavour. We hang all our beef for a minimum of three weeks to ensure our customers are getting the best quality beef. Why should people buy local? People should buy local products to support local businesses and local farmers, if you don’t support these businesses they will disappear. We all have a responsibility to buy British and support British farming. Have you seen a change in attitude to the comments on your videos? We have seen an increase in positive comments from the younger generations who have now started supporting their local butchers. They are surprised by the quality and flavour of meat compared to what they were buying in their local supermarket. We are hopefully giving them the knowledge needed to visit their local butcher and know what they are asking for.
Hereford Beef
How do you like your steak cooked? (Rare/Medium/Well done?)
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The Guild of Fine Foods named the recipients of its prestigious Great Taste awards for 2023 in September. Sighting Oakchurch Farm Shop. Nestled in the rural landscapes of Herefordshire, as worthy winners within the meat category.
Credit: herefordtimes
Hereford Beef
Hereford beef earns Prestigious Award
The family run business earned themselves an impressive tally of seven new awards to add to their existing roster of thirty-six accolades. Recognised worldwide as a trusted authority in food and drink. The awards aren’t earned lightly and those in possession of receiving a title are able to adorn their products with the black and gold ‘Great Taste’ crest to notify prospective purchasers of their quality. Judged by over 100 of the most discerning palates, belonging to food critics, chefs, cooks, restauranteurs, buyers, retailers, and producers, as well as food writers and journalists, the products are blind tested to ensure an impartial response, ensuring the focus is on the food. Oakchurch source their HerefordCharolais cross-bred beef from the family farm beside their store. Offering them the ability to boast
not only an award-winning product, but a product with low food miles and unrivalled traceability. Their in-house butchery caters to customers’ requirements and helps educate purchasers on the benefits of the marbling found within their product. Oakchurch Farm Shop clinched four awards for their homegrown beef, comprising of their delicious sirloin steak, T-bone steak, steak & kidney pie, and steak and ale pie. Awards not limited to the butchery counter, the business earned awards within three more categories. One of the judges showered the sirloin steak with praise: “An
appealing looking steak that cuts easily and glistens well. Tender to chew and melts in the mouth. A quality product that packs the wow factor!” Nick Price, the proprietor of Oakchurch, expressed his joy, stating, “Absolutely delighted with the news. We’re proud to showcase the Great Taste Awards logo as a distinctive emblem of our highquality and delicious homemade offerings, a sentiment shared by many local food and drink producers here at Oakchurch.” The local family owned and run Oakchurch Farm Shop is at Staunton-on-Wye, 10 minutes from Hereford on the A438 Brecon Road.
Irish Hereford Prime Beef Sustainability Program As the largest Hereford producer group in Europe, Irish Hereford Prime aims to position itself to better supply exactly what the market needs. The consumer now demands more sustainable environmentally friendly beef, which ultimately drives what the Irish beef producer supplies at farm level. The Irish Hereford Prime beef producer group have made a substantial investment in a new beef genetics sustainability program. The first steps on the
road to an enhanced sustainability policy for the Irish Hereford Prime beef brand has seen the group partner with Dovea Genetics and the Irish Hereford Breed Society, to identify and promote bulls capable of further improving the quality and substantiality credentials of its premium beef brand. The breeding policy of the program makes easy calving, short gestation Hereford bulls available to meet the huge demand at farm level, while also ensuring high terminal carcass performance to deliver a Hereford beef animal that continues to achieve targeted improvements.
The producer group recognises that an increase in the rate of genetic gain is linked to profitability, sustainability, and climate efficiency. A reduction in the age at slaughter while maintaining animal daily live weight gain will ensure lower overall methane emissions per kilogram of beef produced, thereby strengthening the sustainability pillar that the Irish Hereford Prime brand is built upon. Currently there are five bulls in the program – each of which pack an impressive set of credentials. The first calves from the initial three bulls arrived on the ground in Spring 2023 and their progeny look
59 very promising with ease of calving and short gestation remaining key.
Hereford Beef
The group are looking forward to seeing the rewards from their long-term investment in identifying suitable Hereford genetics being seen by the consumer right the way back to their farmer members who produce their beef.
Sean O’Brien - Brand Ambassador for Irish Hereford Prime Sean O’Brien, is a retired professional Irish rugby player. Playing with Leinster for eleven seasons and internationally for Ireland for ten years. He announced his retirement from rugby in 2022 and has started farming more seriously as well as working with Leinster Rugby as their Contact Skills Coach. Having always had an interest in Herefords Irish Hereford Prime were delighted to welcome Sean onboard as an Irish Hereford Prime member and ambassador to promote the Producer Group, the Breed, the Brand and the Beef.
for further information contact the Livestock Team on 01977 623331 image courtesy of Netherhall Farm
Dovecote Park are proud to support the
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Hereford Beef
Dunbia make sustainable strides Since publishing our updated sustainability strategy, Plan Four Zero, in 2022, Dunbia has been proactive in delivering against our goal to achieve net zero supply chain emissions by 2050. Each year, we procure more than 1 million cattle and 3.5 million sheep, which means over 90% of our supply chain (or Scope 3) emissions come directly from farming. We know that UK livestock systems are already among the most sustainable in the world, but we also recognise that there is more work to do if we are to hit net zero and remain competitive in our priority markets. Climate change is often referred to as the great ‘leveller’; with its effects touching our everyday lives. Farmers in particular, are on the front line of this challenge, with many farming businesses now experiencing some kind of extreme weather event each year. If we are going to work through these challenges and maintain a financially viable beef and lamb sector, then building resilience through collaboration is essential. In recent years, Dunbia’s Agriculture Team has actively engaged in more collaboration partnerships than ever before, bringing in more knowledge, and sharing the learnings as we go. Many of these partnerships are focussed at the farm level, with an emphasis on animal health, genetics, nutrition, grazing systems, carbon footprints and meat-eating quality, to name a few. Biodiversity, soil health and water quality will undoubtedly take
Matthew Rollason, Agriculture Manager at Dunbia greater precedent going forwards. For many across industry, this has meant getting to grips with new ways of working, new language and of course data. All of this combined can seem a daunting prospect, but for those prepared to embrace change, there are opportunities to be had through efficiency savings and greater profitability. To support this, Dunbia is investing an initial £90m in Plan Four Zero, including to encourage sustainable farming through research and knowledge exchange. By collaborating with customers and dedicated farmer groups, everyone involved is able to explore these initiatives and understand how they work on the ground. I would encourage anyone reading this to take a look at the range of videos and webinars available on Dunbia’s social media channels, through the #FarmGreen platform. To realise everyone’s climate ambitions and feed a growing world population, agriculture must play its part by embracing
science and data. Heritage and tradition, as important as they are, is no longer enough in isolation. Armed with the right data, we are able to provide evidence to our customers that beef and lamb products are essential to the wellbeing of our society and the environment. Farmers also have the opportunity to use data to identify areas for improvement and make better informed business decisions. This is especially true when it comes to animal genetics, health and nutrition as these areas all have significant bearing further down the supply chain. It can be used to identify genetically superior animals, reduce reliance on antibiotics and optimise feed resource efficiency. For pedigree breeding, data means understanding the market signals they are receiving from commercial buyers, and building this back into the breeding programme, ensuring that their genetics are delivering value, at every stage from conception to consumption.
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Making Waves for Hereford Beef As part of ongoing efforts to build recognition and fuel growth of Hereford Beef, Ripple, an award-winning brand agency based in Northern Ireland are now partnered with the Hereford Cattle Society. Over the course of the past year, Ripple has been working to create a unique identity and market position for Hereford Beef, which will lead to a clear and sustained campaign to redefine brand perception within the farming and food industries. Colm Boylan, Director of Ripple Creative commented, “Ripple are determined to make Hereford stand out as the go-to British beef. The Hereford breed has a unique story and is one which needs to be told. In our efforts to uncover the essence of the breed, our team were drawn to its long heritage and success globally.” With this in mind, Ripple identified that, as a brand, Hereford Beef was missing a definitive identity and didn’t convey this strong sense of heritage. Colm added, “In order for the brand to stand out and be recognised as a unique offering within the market, a long-term strategy is required.” To achieve this, in Spring 2023, work began on the implementation of a 5-yr strategy for Hereford Beef.
With a wealth of experience as a brand agency, the design and marketing team at Ripple worked to create a ‘fresh face’ and new messaging for Hereford Beef. The talented design team created assets to ensure the brand was consistent across all touchpoints, whilst the marketing team began building the foundations of a brand story, based on the history and inherent ‘Britishness’ of the breed, alongside the key traits of marbling and succulence of the beef itself. Key to this new messaging was the evolution of the ‘Hereford Beef’ brand. Based on the traits mentioned above, and using consumer research which identified beef provenance as a key buying consideration for consumers, Ripple crafted a new name and tagline for the beef brand. Hereford Beef will be launching in 2024 as ‘British Herefords’, with the tagline, ‘A proud heritage’. This new identity signifies a huge step forward for Hereford beef commercially and portrays a quality offering, with its homeland deeply rooted in Britain. In line with this new direction for ‘British Herefords’, Ripple directed and co-ordinated the creation of a bank of key marketing and sales assets, including a series of videos focusing on British breeders of Hereford Cattle. A corporate brand video was filmed in Herefordshire, on the backdrop of beautiful British countryside. It showcases the history, heritage and pride that we have in the UK as the homeland of the
Hereford breed. It also features the unique attributes of the beef itself: succulency, marbling and tenderness. This video will take pride of place on the new ‘British Herefords’ website, which will be launched in 2024. A commercial shoot was also undertaken by Ripple, this time in Scotland. The story follows Robert Parker and John Douglas, and is a testament to the key traits that make Hereford so commercially successful. Following the shoot, Colm commented, “What has stuck with us, was the passion of both Robert and John for Hereford as a commercial breed, and it’s huge potential within the market going forward.” Ripple have also been working on building the story of ‘Hereford People’. Putting the spotlight on our farmers, telling their stories and building the narrative for Hereford breeders across the UK. Colm notes, “The success of the Hereford breed is driven by Hereford farmers. Therefore, it is crucial that we show the human faces behind the breed and showcase their stories.” The marketing collateral being developed will be used across multiple touchpoints for the launch of ‘British Herefords’ and beyond. As 2024 progresses, the new look and feel for the brand will become visible across social media, on the website, across print materials and at events.
Closing Comments: Colm commented, “It is a pleasure to work alongside the Hereford Cattle Society and we look forward to playing our part in the launch of British Herefords this coming year. We see ourselves as an extension of the Hereford team, and are dedicated to building a strong future for the brand.”
When you choose Hereford Beef, you choose flavour, from a herd fed naturally on grass, free from additives, making it the best choice, every time.
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Beef made better
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Hereford Producers
Farming is perhaps one of the oldest industries in the world and one that has lasted the test of time, moving from strength to strength, constantly evolving. Now more than ever British farmers are engaging with the public, inviting them to share their day-to-day life, via social media, TV programs, books or on farm visits. The pandemic gave a new appreciation of the fact that we are a small island and farmers were there, as they always have been, ready to step-up and support a nation who needed feeding. The Hereford Cattle Society has set up the ‘Hereford Producer’ to promote and highlight the hard work of our network of farmers and showcase the quality of the produce they provide. If you are choosing to eat less meat, let the meat you do eat come from a source with low food miles, high welfare, a great story and a friendly smile. We’re proud to present to you the ‘Hereford Producers’.
Jack and Gemma Burgess, Clarence Herd Jack and Gemma Burgess from The Clarence Herd, located at the edge of Exmoor are both busy people fuelled with a passion for their farm. Jack works full-time as a firefighter hailing from farming parents, his partner Gemma works as a full-time beautician, although not originally from farming she isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty. The pair started their mutual farming journey in 2017 after the purchase of two in-calf Hereford heifers. A breed they consider quintessentially English and spotted as the investment worthy of their adventure due to their calm nature, ease of finishing and their good look. “They’re gorgeous to look at.” Remarked Gemma, “The beef is also top class and would in our opinion out do any other breed!” Just a year after purchasing their own smallholding, the enterprise has grown substantially. They run their cattle over their land and rent additional grazing from the holding next door. For us they are the quintessential English breed of cattle. Calm, easy
to fatten and gorgeous to look at. The beef is also top class and would in our opinion out do any other breed! Growing their herd of Horned Herefords, they breed pedigree breeding bulls and heifers which they sell into dairy, suckler and other pedigree herds. Coming full circle, the couple buy in Hereford X calves to rear and finish from dairy farms that they have supplied bulls to. These are then sold via market, local shops and within beef boxes sold directly off farm. They vary the content within the box depending on seasonality and customer desires. Although the couple do attend farmers markets, they have found a novel method of
connecting with their customers. Hosting open days several times a year on farm, they have found the public enjoy engaging with the provenance of their food. The couple show visitors around, socialise and sell their top-quality Hereford beef! With a high percentage of returning customers looking to continue purchasing for the quality, they’re comforted also by knowing that the beef has been sourced from a high welfare farm, they are able to visit alongside the low input system Jack and Gemma have put in place. Following a study on the holding, they can even boast being carbon negative. “People shouldn’t believe
65 Marketing their products via social media, they have found the most engagement on Instagram seeking
a spike in popularity last year. It is proving to be a useful tool for connecting with people all over the world as well as locally.
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everything that TV tells them. Eating nutrient dense, local food that’s farmed in a sustainable way is the answer to both the climate crisis and pollution issues we have. Not only is beef within the right setup some of the most nutrient dense calories you can eat but if farmed correctly can actually capture carbon. Hereford beef and offal is full of healthy fats and cholesterol which you need for healthy brains and bodies.”
“My favourite meal with our beef is a roast dinner! However, I also love some of the less popular cuts like brisket and liver.” For those looking to purchase from Jack and Gemma at The Clarence Herd you can get in contact with them to ask questions or order your own box of Hereford beef via Instagram or Facebook @the_ clarence_herd or text/ring Jack on 07483816300.
Clive and Paula Bidmead, Rockland Herefords Based in Rockland, Norfolk, the namesake of the Herd. Husband and wife team, Clive, and Paula Bidmead, run both a pedigree and Hereford cross herd. With around 40 cows in total, they purchase Hereford stores to finish on their holding. With a good crop of animals to offer, the pair have set up as suppliers to local butcher, Tony Perkins, supplying their beef to his two shops. All animals that leave the farm destined for the shop are inspected by the Bidmeads. Evaluating them within the chillers proposes the opportunity for them to keep in touch with the quality of their product, ensuring it is up to their high standard. Upholding this level of care has helped develop a strong working relationship with Mr Perkins. Allowing the butcher freedom to feedback, should there be any improvements and also maximise on their locality. All of Mr Perkins staff have attended the farm to gain a greater understanding of how the beef is reared and finished. As well as the selection process when the animals are ready for the shop. This came from Mr and Mrs Bidmead having their own conversations with patrons of the shop and how Tonys customer base responded to the in-depth information that they were
able to supply. The provenance of the product resounding with the customer base.
wholesale customers currently
The staff are now able to inform customers with the full story of the origin of their beef.
produced.
Following how successful these visits have been, the farmers alongside Tony are organising a farm visit to invite chefs and
social media to continue to
supplied by Tony to come and see for themselves how the beef is All partners are massive advocates of Hereford beef and utilise their promote its benefits. dcm@live.co.uk
Cattle farmer Clive Bidmead with his wife Paula, daughter Evie and the family’s Hereford beef cattle
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Regan Upton, Bullbeggars Herd Growing up in a rural area, Regan Upton, Hertfordshire, always had a keen interest in farming, deciding from a young age that agriculture was the route for him. Helping on local farms, he found a vocation for livestock management and at just 15 years old, with the support and guidance of local farming friends, he purchased his first Hereford cow and calf. Having not been born with access to ground, Regan was fortunate to keep his starter herd at a local farm. Taking on more grazing, Regan has been able to expand the herd and purchasing his own stock bull and establishing his own pedigree herd in 2020, under the prefix Bullbeggars. This wouldn’t have been possible without the help of his mum, who tended the herd when Regan was away from home. The Hereford breed has fitted with Regans system perfectly. Tenant farmers don’t always have the luxury of housing facilities and the hardiness of the Hereford has meant that Regan can expand his herd and work towards further securing his future in farming. “We sell our beef, direct to local customers in 10kg beef boxes at around 24 months and they’re finished on grass. All our boxes are currently sold through wordof-mouth alone, with many repeat customers. This is in addition to home-bred lamb which we also sell direct to local customers.” Both Regan and his mum love working with the Hereford because they are low maintenance and docile. “They thrive on a grassbased system and are easy fleshing.” Regan adds. “In addition to its excellent eating quality, the Hereford ticks all the boxes for us.” Moving forward Regan has big plans in place for his enterprise, continual expansion, and improvement of his herd of Hereford Cattle and
providing great quality, nutritious, low-mileage beef for people that appreciate good food with great provenance. Beef Boxes from Regan consist of, Roasting Joints, Frying Steaks, Braising Steak & Mince. If you are interested to order or find out more about Regans produce you can find him at @bullbeggars Beef & Lamb on Facebook and Instagram, or alternatively on 07973714039 for regular updates.
67 Born and Raised on a family dairy farm on the Carmarthenshire/ Pembrokeshire border, Joseph Twose, was familiar with the Hereford breed the family utilised as sweeper bulls. However, following his graduation from university with a degree in agriculture in his back pocket, Joseph headed back home. At the core of their enterprise is the dairy, with milk produced from a herd of high yielding Holsteins sold to first milk. The Hereford herd was established five years ago, as ‘Beca Herefords’ a pedigree polled herd, initially with the focus to breed their own bulls to support the dairy herd and sell to other herds, however the unseen diversification has been the sale of their beef boxes off the farm.
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Joseph Twose , Beca Herefords “The Herefords are fantastic animals that can adapt to any farming system being great converters of feed, with high growth rates, easy calving and wonderful flavour of meat with all the marbling running through.” Joseph explains. They’ve established a strong base of returning customers, who regularly offer feedback about ‘how it’s the best they’ve ever tasted’. “Customers are preferring to know where their product is coming from and that its healthy and well cared for.” When their customer chooses their beef boxes, they support the local community as the animals are all travelled to a local abattoir. From travelling the animals to the customers receiving their orders, the meat is turned around in 12 hours. “My favourite recipe has to be a
good old fashioned strew made by our diced beef, nothing better on a cold winter evening although I am a massive lover of a ribeye steak.” If you are interested in learning more or ordering from ‘Beca Hereford’ visit their Facebook page ‘Beca Hereford and Beef Box’s’ or call Joseph on 07870269738
Functional fertile Bulls and Heifers Guaranteed Breedplan Performance Recorded HiHealth herdcare • Cattle Health Scheme
Maenhir, Login, Whitland, Carmarthenshire, SA34 0XE Tel: 07870269738 Email: josepht wose@hotmail.co.uk
Visitors always welcome
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Kitty Stainsby and James Smith, Wye Organic, Courtfield Herefords First generation farmers, Kitty Stainsby and James Smith have been farming for over two years. During that time they have made massive strides establishing farm gates sales with the venue ‘Wye Organic’. The farm boasts regenerative practices, pasture for life and organic status, offering an abundance of produce from cut flowers, lamb, venison, vegetables and of course beef. They believe that running the farm the way they do contributes to the flavour of the meat they provide to customers alongside supporting positive benefits for the biodiversity on the land.
100% pasture fed system and are kept outside all year around. The Hereford fits in with the natural, low input system, but still get the quality of product that customer has described as “Beef how it used to taste, full of flavour.” Kitty attended Groundwell last year, as part of a panel discussion, speaking on the topic of ‘Direct
to Household: Building a Market for Local Food from the Farmgate’ which is available on YouTube. Both Kitty and James believe that when consumers purchase locally, they are having a positive effect for their local area. Helping with the support of biodiversity, socially, economically, and environmentally alongside lowering the footprint of their food. @wyeorganic on socials www.wyeorganic.co.uk Visit our website www.wyeorganic. co.uk to order if you live within 15 miles of Goodrich Herefordshire.
Sales are captured through their polished, easy to use website with orders being fulfilled weekly directly to homes and restaurants. The herd comprises of a mixture of Herefords, polled, traditional, and horned, all suited to the regenerative practices adopted by the farmers. All cattle are on a
R & N J Marsh, Crosemeremarshes Hereford Crosemeremarshes Hereford’s are owned by R & N J Marsh. Located on the land surrounding Crosemere SSSI the pair are faced with challenges unique to the landscape that they farm, a challenge the family has embraced since beginning their tenancy in 1792. With this incredibly generational run behind them, the land was purchased in 1927 to obtain security for the then dairy farm. Since then, changes have been made to their farming practices,
seeing the dairy herd dispersed and replaced with sheep and the addition of beef cattle. Some of the land within their care the Marsh family caretake on the behalf of English Nature under ELC/HLC & CS schemes. It is these schemes that see the Hereford fit in perfectly to help obtain their objectives. It also helps that they look so remarkable grazing against the backdrop of the little lane district. Boasting an Animal Health scheme membership alongside being red tractor certified, with the help of social media, the herd has found a loyal fanbase for their boxed meat. Selling their Polled Herefords in boxes comprising of joints,
steaks, stewing steak and mince, it’s difficult to keep the freezers full due to demand. “Our favourite thing to cook with our beef would be a long slow cooked brisket rubbed in spice mix and served with creamy mash and gravy.” Alongside private sales the beef is supplied into local specialist shops, those who value the farming methods practiced by R & N J Marsh. Low food miles as well as animals that live out all year around, grazing pasture contributing to their health and happiness. To order from Crosemere Marshes Herefords search the herd’s name into Facebook and private message.
69 Hoghton View Herefords are grazed in the fields surrounding Hoghton Tower enjoying a rich natural diet that allows the breeders, Steven, and Lizzie Walker to market their beef to customers with the assurance that their product boast a unique flavour. In addition to the diet of their animals and the traceability of their beef, they have received feedback of its high quality, succulence and tenderness. Customer return for the eating experience they’ve descripted as ‘unique’.
legendary Hereford burger.” 5kg and 10kg boxes available to order throughout the year. For more information and prices please contact us. Contact information:steven@hoghtonviewherefords. slow cooked joints to steaks and favourites such as stewing beef, mince, beef sausages and “our
co.uk Lizzie 07714260589 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook
Selling directly off farm, the beef is packed professionally, leaving the farm, boxed and vacuumpacked. They offer a great range of products suitable for all seasons and family sizes. From beautiful
Pedigree Polled Hereford Cattle Semen, Bulls and females for sale Steven and Lizzie Walker
WORLDWIDE SEMEN
Lane Side Farm | Blackburn Old Road | Hoghton Preston | Lancashire | PR5 0SG 07814056943 01254 852187 UK SEMEN
Hoghton View 1 Endure (P) AI ET (Imp Can) {DLF IEF HYF} Hoghton View 1 Jackaroo (P) AI ET {DLF IEF HYF}
www.hoghtonviewherefords.co.uk steven@hoghtonviewherefords.co.uk
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Steve and Lizzie Walker, Hoghton View Herefords
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John Morris, Bradmore Herefords John Morris’ entry into farming started when he and his wife welcomed their daughter into their family. As a human resources professional taking parental leave from work, encouraged by his wife to leave the house, he entered upon not only the adventure of parenthood but has set himself on the track to farm. Finding himself at Wythenshawe Community Farm, run by Hereford Cattle Society President, Allen Massey, John became a volunteer. Here he was reminded of his childhood, with fond memories on his dad’s uncles farm surrounded by cattle. After a six-month stint of tending to the farm’s chickens, the time had come for John to achieve his goal and work with the cattle. A few years on, John bought a few couples which have been running in a small herd close to his home in Cheshire under the prefix Bradmore Herefords. All the Herefords are grass fed with minimal inputs. To supplement the herds income, the steps were taken to sell beef to customer from the local community around the Cheshire area. “I get huge satisfaction making people happy with food and seeing my customers pleased with the product.” John starts, “I have been delighted to see that the animals fatten perfectly on grass, without
significant additional sources of food” All the beef sold under the Bradmore banner comes from Johns herd, sent to an abattoir 2 miles down the road, with the carcasses hung for a minimum of 28 days and cuts being dry aged. All boxes are sold in mixed packs offering customer an opportunity to try a range of cuts and then market premium steak separately. The breeder sees a lot of return customers.
“One of the things I learnt very early in this adventure was buy the best quality stock you could afford and don’t be shy to get rid of animals that aren’t up to standard for breeding.”
“I think beef needs to either be cooked really quickly or really slowly. I do enjoy a fillet steak; however, my favourite cut is a piece of brisket, cooked for as long as possible in a bottle of red wine. We love nothing more than keeping a couple of briskets away from our customers and having these for our Sunday lunch, together with my less perfectly cooked Yorkshire puddings.”
Looking at his stock now, John is reminded of his dad’s uncles Hereford bull named Norman around 40 years ago. It started there and without a farm to inherit, he has still managed to succeed in the dream he had as a child. He has always believed in the enate ability of a native British breed and their ability to thrive on grass. This coupled with their ease of calving, quite temperament helped ‘an amateur’ get started in agriculture.
John has plans of gradually increasing his numbers to satisfy the demand of the breed. This in turn will help him improve the quality of his pedigree breeding stock, where any that are unsatisfactory for him breeding programme can be deregistered and sold within boxes.
Johns’ passion for cattle is met by the response he gets from his customers. Most comment on the quality of the marbling and how it contributes to creating a meat that is unsurpassed by other breeds. Bradmore Hereford sell their produce through Facebook and Instagram, as well as word of mouth. This sees a massive uptake with batches selling out in 24 hours. “This may be famous last words, but I have not had any complaints so far!” Anyone interested in ordering or want to hear more about Bradmore farm is welcome to get in contact with John via social media “I’d be delighted to talk about cows and beef to anyone, so any questions just ask”
71 A farmer and a chef, a recipe for success for couple Robert and Lucy Wilson. Located in the Scottish borders on their holding, Cowbog Farm, they have been running their enterprise together for 22 years. Robert and Lucy have been involved with conservation schemes for the last 20 years, aiding to support a great level of biodiversity on the farm. Running over 600 acres, the land is used for arable crops as well as feeding a mixed beef operation of 250 head of pedigree Herefords. The
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Lucy and Robert Wilson, Romany Herefords Herefords came into Robert’s care as an inheritance, as the Romany herd are the oldest Hereford herd in Scotland. Aside from the conventional farming enterprise they run an agritourism business. Wilsons Farm and Kitchen allows both of their passions to shine. With an offering of farm tours and other demonstrations, the guests can relax at the end of the sessions with a meal. Here Lucy uses her culinary prowess to cook up a storm in the kitchen using the Hereford beef from their herd and other locally, within 25miles of the farm, sourced seasonal produce. It’s with this purchasing strategy that one of their events gained its name – the ‘25-mile Roast lunch’. “A lot of the agritourism events start with a farm tour,” Robert begins, “We can explain to the consumers how we manage the farm and cattle. Don’t be afraid to have people on farm to reassuring them that they are making ethical choices.” To find out more visit: wilsonsfarmandkitchen.com
Facebook & Instagram @ wilsonsfarmandkitchen Book online on the website or drop us an email on hello@ wilsonsfarmandkitchen.com
The Tate Family, Blackwood Herefords The Tate Family from Blackwood Hereford’s started selling beef from their herd of de-horned Herefords after the realisation that it would be selfish to keep such a good quality product to themselves. “It was just too good to keep to ourselves.” The enterprise was originally established following the desire to supply the family with good quality beef. With the use of social media and word of mouth the family now share their bounty with local customers, all with rave reviews of the product. One such review remarks on how the beef “should be on everyone’s shopping list.” The majority of beef is sold in
boxes, 5kg or 10kg and includes a variety of joints, steaks, mince and stewing steak or customised to customer requirements. In the spring they also diverse into burgers to suit the warmer weather. The stew from the packs is herd owner Stephen’s daughters’ favourite, including it in a stew at wintertime, he remarks on how easy it is to cook and full of flavour. “My personal favourite meal to cook with Hereford beef is lasagne, the meat needs no seasoning and is a simple meal that has a great taste all due to the Hereford meat.” The family hasn’t always been in beef farming. Their journey to beef production started with June’s father being a dairy farmer, the couple then purchased a small holding in 1992, seeing the purchase of Dexter cattle onto
the holding. These cattle were not destined to remain due to their size. Following extensive research the Hereford as sighted as a much better fit for their purposes and the herd was established in 2007. If anyone wishes to order please call or text, Lucy on 07958416008 or 01347823190 Or email - tatey2170@hotmail.co.uk
“Simply WOW! Fantastic local produce. Culminating in one of the best, most succulent and tender steaks I have ever cooked, and I have cooked plenty. Would recommend to all, as long as I have my order first!” Customer Richard Tanner-Smith
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B & N Davies & Son, Meity Beef Hello! We are B & N Davies and Son, and we are based at Meity Isaf farm, Trecastle in the heart of the Brecon Beacons. My Dad grew up on his family farm just across the valley from where we farm today. As a family we would always go up to the farm and help Dadcu (Grandad), Nain (Gran) and my uncle with all sorts of jobs. This is where I found my love of farming. In 2013, we were very fortunate to be offered Meity Isaf on a tenyear tenancy from Meredydd and Eileen Jones (Creiniog Herd). The last 10 years have been a rollercoaster with many amazing ups, but also downs, but we wouldn’t change it one bit. Our farm is a hill farm in the Brecon Beacons. Our main game is sheep! We run around 500 ewes which we lamb from March to April. In 2017 we decided to reintroduce cattle to Meity Isaf, we have seen huge benefits in doing so. In the short term we saw how the cattle altered the farm with the grazing and muck improving the soil health which gave our leys more grass growth. In the long term we are starting to see the financial benefits of the cattle. However, in 2019 when the beef price was poor with the prices rising and falling on a weekly basis, we sat down at the kitchen table and said we need to do something different to get more security on price and cashflow. It was at this point we came up with the idea of “Meity Beef”. It is safe to say that
since beginning this new venture in 2020, we have learnt a lot from our mistakes. These days we have got used to it and are always looking at new ideas to gain a higher premium. As I said, we began this new adventure in 2020 just as COVID was hitting the UK and it’s fair to say that we were very nervous, but…we strongly believe that sometimes you’ve just got to bite the bullet and go for it and we haven’t looked back since. Now we sell our fantastic, flavoursome beef which we have branded as “Meity Beef”. We currently sell our beef in beef boxes and individually priced items. We reintroduced the Creiniog herd to Meity Isaf back in 2017. We started with 4 traditional pure Herefords. We have since moved on to British polled Herefords for ease of management and more growth. We aim to keep relatively small cows and have recently purchased weighing scales to look to pick cows with the best efficiency. We look at how many Kg of calf is weaned per Kg of cow. We believe this plays a big part in the future as it is more economic and better for the environment. We also try to pick bulls and cows with good retail
yields on the ebvs. Meity Beefs favourite Beef recipe? We used this recipe with beef short ribs and it was melt in your mouth delicious! • Preheat the oven to gas mark 4-5, 180-190°C, 350-375°F. • Place the joint on a chopping board, score the skin and make several slits over the joint. Season. Stuff the fresh thyme leaves into the slits and rub the olive oil over the joint. • Place the joint on a metal rack in a large roasting tin and open roast for the preferred calculated cooking time, basting occasionally with any rich beefy juices. • When the beef is cooked transfer to a warm platter, loosely cover with foil and leave to rest for 5-10 minutes. Retain the contents of the roasting tin for the gravy. • Meanwhile, prepare the gravy, spoon off any excess oil from the tin, leaving about 30ml (2tbsp) of any rich, beefy juices. Place the roasting tin over medium heat and sprinkle over the flour. Stir well with a small whisk or wooden spoon, gradually add the stout and stock. Stir again, scraping the
73 getting the customer feedback, and the returning customers prove that the hard work and the product is base of the pan to release any sediment. • Add any meat juices from the platter, adjust the seasoning, if required and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally or until reduced to a well-flavoured gravy. Strain before serving. • Serve the beef with roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, seasonal vegetables and the stout gravy. We also find anything with our Hereford mince has a unique taste compared to supermarket mince.
The three main reasons why we choose the Hereford breed: 1. There always used to be Hereford cows on Meity Isaf and wanted to reintroduce them to the farm. 2. The Hereford breed is hardy and converts grass into great tasting meat efficiently. Our cows don’t see much concentrates at all! 3. The docility of them. We mostly sell our products through word of mouth, but this year we have started a Facebook page and we have found new customers.
good quality. It is very important to support local and British as it is the most environmentally friendly way of helping towards the prevention of climate change. Also, British farming is one of the highest standards set and most traceable in the farming world. You can find us on facebook if you search “Meity Beef” and order by either contact us through the Facebook page or call Iwan on 07724884739 or Nicky 07815990697
Hereford BRE ED JOURNA L 2023
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H H Hereerfreoefrfod orrdd BR EE L 2023 B R E JE O D DUJRJON UA R N AL 2022 BREED OU RN AL 20 21
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Traditional appeal for Scottish Consumers Andrew and Serena Sykes moved to Kileekie Farm in South Ayrshire, SW Scotland in 2004 but we did not buy our own cattle until 2011. The couple chose Traditional (OP) Herefords because Serena had worked with the breed as a veterinary surgeon in the 1970s and had always loved their docile temperaments, so different from the continental cattle most prevalent in Scotland. Andrew was also keen to have a rare breed and one which could be kept on grass with no additional feeding. Kileekie Traditional Herefords came into being with 5 females purchased from Paul Carter of Shefford in Berkshire. It rapidly became clear that selling
stock via our local livestock market was not viable as anything other than Limousins fetch very poor prices and Herefords are deeply unpopular, often fetching the lowest prices of all. Determined to not let this dampen their passion, it was decided that the best way forward was to rear and finish their own steers and sell direct to the public via beef boxes. Coupled with
the sale of females and occasional bulls for breeding, to increase numbers in Scotland. As a closed herd, they utilise AI to bring in fresh bloodlines, using semen from modern Traditional bulls and from the old Milk Marketing Board bulls. Andrew and Serena believe this combination produces the best marbling. The decision was made 5 years ago to join Pasture for Life, as the management suited this anyway, and are now Certified producers. They are also members of the SRUC PCHS, accredited for BVD,
75 Regenerative practices have been adopted to help with soil health and wildlife. The cattle are rotationally grazed allowing the paddocks long rest periods. All grass is all old permanent pasture with natural herbs and wildflowers with hedgerows and the willow is an additional food source which research has shown may reduce methane production. Hay is fed when there is little grass and the cows with young calves are wintered inside because the land floods and extremely high rainfall. Over the years however we have succeeded in reducing the amount of time inside to a minimum (midDecember to March) and some groups stay outside all winter, so long as poaching can be avoided. The herds cows are mainly calved in May and June as there is little grass growth earlier in the year. The cows do not receive any additional concentrates or grain. The only additional input is mineral boluses and high magnesium licks (no soya). No herbicides, pesticides, and anthelmintics are used on the holding and other drugs are kept to a minimum. The high welfare aspect of Kileekie beef has caught the attention of their customers. The beef is
Hereford Beef
IBR, Leptospirosis and Level 1 Johnes. Pasture for Life is not yet well recognised in Scotland, but they are confident that it is a growing movement. Working with this management approach, combined with eating local, reduces environmental cost and costs for the breeders.
marketed and sold mostly through the Kileekie Traditional Hereford Facebook page and Instagram but increasingly it sells to repeat customers, some of whom are active on social media and are very complimentary about the taste and quality of the beef. Male calves are dehorned at birth because of abattoir requirements and castrated at about 9 months, unless of exceptional quality suitable for breeding. Once weaned at 9 months they spend their summers, and often most of their winters, in the willow plantation next to the river Girvan. The animals travel to the local abattoir at between 27 and 29 months – Andrew and Serena are very fortunate to have an abattoir 12 miles away in Ayr, AK Stoddarts. Carcass weights vary, usually between 280-300kg (although the last one was 334 kg) and they usually grade R4L or H, sometimes O+. The breeders transport the animals themselves for minimum stress which they are confident contributes to the quality of their meat. The beef is hung by their butchers, Wm. Allan & Son of Stewarton, for at least 21 days where it is vacuum packed and returned to farm for distribution in insulated boxes with ice packs. They have found couriers to be a challenge due to their unpredictable nature, this has led to the preference to sell most of the beef locally so that it can be collected or delivered. Any remaining beef is frozen and of
course it is also eaten by the couple, their family, and friends. “Our beef works well in any recipe, but my favourites are either a traditional roast dinner with my husband’s best ever Yorkshire puddings, Beef Wellington or a steak.” Serena comments, “The meat needs no sauces or accompaniments – it’s flavour and marbling are superb.” Kileekie Traditional Herefords Kileekie Partnership Kileekie Farm, Crosshill, Maybole, Ayrshire KA19 7PY andrew_sykes@msn.com serena_sykes@hotmail.co.uk 07860172330 / 07798622879 Facebook (1) Facebook Also on Instagram kileekieherefords And X (formerly Twitter) Kileekie OP Herefords (@kileekie)
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Features ● The Thorne Family success ● Cattle reintroduced to Benacres Estate ● Young farms target Herefords ● Black Baldies - Robert Parker ● President hosts visit of Welsh young farmers ● Herbal Leys ● Reg Hutchings - 50 years ● The Rogers Pedigree ● Science into practice: IVP ● GreenBeef Index and Cow Weight ● Ask the Vet ● Line 1 Herefords, a lasting impression ● Happy Herefords help educate next generation ● UK Hereford Youth
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79 The walls of the farmhouse kitchen at Studdolph Hall are adorned with Herefords – an assortment of paintings, prints and photographs that leave absolutely no room to doubt the breed of cattle grazing in the fields beyond the farmyard. Heads down as they munch away on the late autumn pasture, the cows and their offspring set the bar high on condition, consistency and conformation, the traits most sought after by competition judge Kate Dickinson on the hunt for her winning herd earlier that season. "I came with a list of objectives that a herd needed, once they ticked all the boxes, at a secondary level, I wanted to see the potential passed through to their youngstock too," she says. Maintaining the condition that caught her eye in the Studdolph herd of Poll and British polled cows primarily comes down to grassland management and grazing, with the Thornes prioritising fresh calvers with the best feed. The permanent pasture on the 69-hectare (170-acre) allgrass farm, and an abundance of it thanks to Pembrokeshire’s temperate climate, is a good match for the breed. “This is good land for the Hereford, they are really spoilt here,’’ says George. “We keep the groups rotating around the fields because like all cattle they like a move, a bit of fresh bite.’’
Photos: Chrissie Long, Countrygirl Media
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Paramount position for Thorne's herd
The Thorne family from Studdolph Hall took the 2023 Herd of the Year trophy home to Pembrokeshire for the third time. George, Ionwy and Non offer insight into their system and what led them to their success.
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Grouping the cattle during the April to November grazing period also helps support condition. Male and female calves are initially run as one group with their dams, until the young animals are four months old, at which point the bulls and heifers are separated into suckling groups for feeding and management purposes. The groups are evenly split because from year to year there is without fail a consistent ratio of 50:50 males and females. “Incredibly it always seems to work out that way, we use a range of AI sires, stock bulls and sexed semen up milk flow and maintain udder health in the cows. A diet of hay helps too. If the weather allows, the cows are sometimes turned out to grass again after weaning before winter housing on silage. All male calves are kept entire to accelerate the finishing period in animals that don’t make the grade for breeding. These are sold at 16 months, mostly supplied to ABP. Breeding animals are marketed at 13-14 months. Dairy farms had historically accounted for the majority of sales but that market has now shifted somewhat to suckler herds. “As breeding technology has developed and is used more widely in the dairy industry we are providing less bulls to the dairyman but we do still have a lot of dairy but always end up with roughly even numbers of bulls and heifers,’’ says Non. Grouping allows creep feeding to be adjusted according to sex; the heifers are supplementary fed some coarse mix and locallysourced rolled barley but it is the bulls that get the lion’s share. “We don’t want the heifers getting overfat,’’ Non explains. Weaning is at housing, cows and calves separated in stages because of limitations with housing availability. During that process, cows and their progeny are mixed again every two days for a week or so, with the suckling helping to dry
81 farmers who buy from us, and quite a few have been coming back to us for years,’’ says Ionwy.
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Calving in two blocks, in the spring and autumn, ensures there is a good supply of breeding stock available when buyers need them. To get calves off to a good start, every animal is fed two litres of powdered colostrum within two hours of birth, irrespective of whether they have suckled. Achieving the two other ‘Cs’ on Kate Dickinson’s list – consistency and conformation – is chiefly down to breeding, and years of it, more than seven decades in fact. The herd was established in 1946 by George’s father Walter under three inclusive prefixes – the Studdolph horned herd, the Ashdale British Polled herd and the Glenvale poll herd. He grew the herd to 80 cows and, at that number, it was one of the largest horned herds in the UK. In 1979 he made the decision to disperse the Herefords as a changing attitude to beef production, due to the popularity of continental breeds, coupled with a diminished demand for the smaller horned Hereford meant a change in focus was required. Anxious to keep the bloodlines going and the Studdolph prefix alive, George bought a cow and an in-calf heifer from that sale. The cow was in-calf to a British Polled bull which in turn established the successful Queen family in the new generation herd. The herd grew with the purchase of poll females
from the Dendor, Costhorpe, Mandalay and Lowesmoor herds and now numbers 45 cows.
“There is no point in buying a bull with the best figures if you don’t like the look of it,’’ Non suggests.
Once the last of the original Studdolph horned females died out, George and Ionwy gifted the herd to Non, along with a Christmas gift of two females they had purchased from the Dendor herd.
Alderville 1 Dover did catch her eye and he has lived up to expectation.
The consistency in the calves the herd has since produced was described by the competition judge as the best she saw across the nine farms visited. The stock bull that produced the uniform bunch of calves Kate saw is Alderville 1 Dover purchased at the spring society sale in 2022. George and Non had pre-selected six possibilities from the sale catalogue, based on figures and breeding, but they discounted some at the sale because the bulls didn’t measure up to their preferences on colour and appearance.
“He has given us some really nice calves, and he has a gorgeous temperament,’’ she says. Importantly for her, he hadn’t been over-fed concentrates ahead of the sale. “Animals are sometimes stuffed to the hilt but they just melt when they are put to work.’’ The Thornes run a closed herd and put the superb conformation of the animals largely down to that, together with years of breeding and a strict approach to culling the bottom 10%. They focus on breeding for good udders, a great top line and a placid temperament. Size, length and type are important too. “Selecting on feet and milk is important because if an animal can’t walk there isn’t much hope and if they haven’t got enough milk you might as well forget it!’’ laughs Non. “A cow needs to be able to produce lots of milk to give her calf the best chance.’’ Heifers are calved as two and a half year olds to produce a bigger framed animal. AI is used for that first pregnancy, with ease of calving a priority when selecting sires. Non’s enthusiasm, drive and passion for the Hereford saw the Thornes return to the sale ring in 2018 after a 40 year absence from selling females at a public auction.
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Looking to the future, the Thornes have no doubt that the popularity of the Hereford will only increase as the emphasis on food sustainability grows. Unlike Continental breeds, the Hereford doesn’t rely on concentrates to perform, George points out. “The Hereford is easy and cheap to keep and will fatten off grass but the Continentals need so much feed. They might achieve higher prices at sale but it costs a lot more to get them there.’’
Judging nine herds in nine days is no mean feat. As well as the enjoyment she gets from that experience, it has widened the pool of potential buyers. “Because of where we are located, in south west Wales, prospective buyers don’t just call in because they happen to be passing by, we have to take the stock to the people.’’
Kate Dickinson travelled the length and breadth of the UK looking for her top herd, a job made all the more tricky by the exceptional quality of the stock she was presented with on each of those nine farms.
Non loves the process of preparing the animals for sale. “Watching a calf being born, then seeing it develop to the point of sale, nothing quite beats that.’’
“They had great udders, I didn’t see a bad udder, and the cows were nicely marked.’’
George does pull her leg about the preparation now involved in getting an animal show and sale ring ready. “He reminds me that when he went to the sales at Perth and Edinburgh he did so with just a brush and a bucket while I have a car full of cans and cosmetics!’’
“Every farm I visited clearly love and think so much of their animals,’’ she says. So what gave the Studdolph herd the edge? “They were really nice strong, big cows, with a good frame and good length to them as well,’’ says Kate.
Cow condition was also a stand out feature. “I like to see cows in really peak condition and they were outstanding going into autumn,’’ says Kate. “Some were outside, coming towards the end of the good grass, but they were not overly fat and that is down to the grassland management.’’ It wasn’t only the cows that scored highly but the youngstock too. Kate was taken by the ‘very feminine’ looking females in the calf lines. “The youngstock also had great length but a lot of meat, that meat coming right down to their legs, back and into their loin. Even the yearlings were naturally carrying a lot of flesh. “That is important because at the end of the day the Hereford is ultimate a beef animal going into the food chain.’’
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Cattle return to Benacre Estate
The Benacre Estate fact file 3,500 arable acres farmed in hand 1,500 acres let land AHA 1,000 acres Nature reserves 1,000 acres woodland
85 Andrew Allan’s new journey is offering one of his most exciting career challenges.The Gooch family, Lady Susan and her two daughters, Lucinda Hutson and Victoria Vere Nicoll have provided him with the opportunity to reintroduce cattle to the estate for the first time in 50 years. He explains: “I’ve had over 25 years experience of farm management which has featured Hereford genetics to make the various systems work and I’m also very passionate about the breed, consequently Hereford was my number one choice.” That’s not all. Andrew’s proposals for the estate’s in hand farming operations extend to integrating the livestock enterprise into a regenerative system. “I’ve been appointed to The Benacre Company at a time when BPS support is rapidly disappearing and Lucinda and Victoria, both of whom are actively involved in the estate’s day to day running, wanted a change of direction and take the business to the next level. Their vision is to farm in a more environmentally friendly way in order to hand the land on to the next generation in better health.” The Benacre Company’s in hand managed land had been continually cropped for four decades leaving the sandy soil type with minimal organic matter, he says. “I put together a fully costed business plan. We identified and agreed to continue to grow the crops that make a profit - spring and winter barley and sugar beet, and drop several others including wheats, beans, peas and OSR. “At the same time, we examined the new ELM schemes which would enable us to take advantage of and maximise environmental payments which in turn would provide a good baseline for the business. We’re a business driven by government policy and these payments are guaranteed, they’re not influenced by world market prices, currency, supply and demand, nor the weather. “We agreed to enter the Mid Tier scheme, take 900 acres out of cropping, introduce over 75% of the area to arable reversion
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The Benacre Estate located on the Suffolk Heritage Coast has been owned by the Gooch family since 1746. It has a wide range of habitats ranging from farmland, heathland and woodland to over three miles of coastline. We meet Andrew Allan who was appointed farm manager in spring 2023 and discuss the estate’s strategy to introduce a regenerative system with Hereford genetics at its heart.
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and direct drill with GS4 herbal leys in a five-year option, and AB15 pollen and nectar mixes in a two-year option, all of which are designed to improve soil structure, fix nitrogen and sequestrate carbon. Add the cattle, and the complementary mix is quite simply going to put some goodness back in to the land.” After harvest, land is being drilled with stubble turnips, fodder beet and Westerwolds for strip grazing from November through to March which in turn will provide an entry for spring barley, sugar beet and potatoes. The unit is also eligible for the Mid Tier scheme’s fencing grant and plans to introduce a paddock system with 68,000 metres of stock fencing- sheep netting and two strands of barbed wire. “Hereford cattle have relatively very low maintenance requirements. For starters, the breed has the ability to thrive on forage; combine that with its hardiness and the estate’s sandy soil type lends the herd to outwintering, consequently we’ve no plans for winter accommodation. Instead, we’re intending to introduce corrals and roll out straw at the field edges to create a straw nest. Overwintering outdoors makes for much healthier cattle.”
The Benacre herd Andrew Allan began with a blank canvass in spring 2023, yet within three short months of rolling out its strategy, The Benacre Company had registered the Benacre prefix and firmly established the autumn calving herd with 20 foundation pedigree Hereford females and three bulls. By autumn 2024, plans are to have grown the herd to a targeted 300 cows, including 50 elite pedigree Hereford females. Foundation stock have included animals from Auckvale, Barwise, Dendor, Glenvale, Harveybros, Holmefield, Holmefold, Lanscombe, Moor Side, Porton House and Pulham. “We will continue to source the best genetics to suit our system,” Andrew comments.
While Benacre’s intentions appear ambitious, he reminds: “Our business plan has a budget for the cattle enterprise, it’s a commercial fixed one and I have to justify the spend.” He continues: I’m focused on developing a herd featuring modern Hereford genetics with good structure, tidy udders, easy to calve and with plenty of milk. I’m expecting an average eight calf crops. EBVs are important, all the key traits should be positive apart from backfat. I don’t like cattle that are too lean; they need to finish easily with a cover of fat as well as remain in positive energy balance and easily get in calf, so a negative back fat EBV is important.” The Hereford Cattle Society’s official autumn show and sale at Shrewsbury presented Andrew with initial opportunities to source quality stock. In fact, he took home
87 16, 15 to 18-month-old maiden heifers and he made the day’s top 9,000gns call for the male champion, Harveybros 1 Willy-TheWomanizer, a 2021-born bull by Wirruna Matty M288 and out of Harveybros 1 Crocus N1. “There’s no hiding the fact this bull’s name in the sale catalogue caught Victoria’s eye. When we checked him out in the mart, we not only liked his EBVs but also his conformation – he was structurally correct, he was out of a strong dam, and he secured the male championship on the day, adding to a string of showring successes earlier in the year.” Since then, two more herd sires have been introduced – the September 2022 born Pulham Admiral, an Australian bred Mawarra Influential Q162 son who earlier in the season had been awarded horned bull of the year. While Admiral was selected for his maternal traits, Andrew invested in a second bull from the same herd, Pulham 1 Archer, with strong terminal traits. Also new to Benacre and adding to its two-strong team of staff is herd manager, Robert Clarke. “With over three decades of working with Hereford cattle, he understands the genetics and is a top showman,” says Andrew. “We are planning to use the show ring as our shop window and to start raising the herd’s profile, however we’re not going to be driven by it, rather we want to use the opportunity to invite and encourage farmers to visit the unit, find out more about
our regenerative system and how the Hereford cattle fit and thrive on the forage-based system. Robert is a vital and very important addition to the estate. I want to give him ownership of the herd so he can manage and drive the breeding strategy to suit our system.” To complement Benacre’s modern Hereford genetics, Andrew is planning to invest in some of the latest technology. “Scales and collars are on the list to help us to measure and monitor performance; we plan to weigh all the youngstock
The herd will predominantly be calved in the autumn, seeing all calves weaned in July and August.. Eventually these will go on to out winter on strip grazed root crops before returning to graze leys. “I’m targeting heifers to calve at two years – that’s amongst my priorities since I’m confident they will reach 350kg to 400kg by first service and we want to maximise every animal’s potential performance. The commercial steers and heifers are scheduled to reach 320kg to 330kg target finished deadweight weight off grazed grass at 18 months of age.” The estate’s business plan also includes developing its own Benacre beef brand. “We’re looking towards launching a beef box scheme and sell to high end local butchers before exploring all potential retail opportunities. We believe we have a fantastic, high quality, fully traceable product to offer – natural, forage reared Hereford beef with an interesting provenance.”
The 2023/24 plan 2,000 acres retained in selective arable cropping 700 acres introduced to grassland, legumes and herbal leys 600 grassland, parkland and marshes 200 acres AB15 Pollen and nectar mixes 50 cow Hereford elite herd 250 cow commercial Hereford and Hereford cross sucklers
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– both pedigree and commercial on a regular basis to ensure they’re achieving target growth rates.”
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Young Farming Couple’s Amazing Opportunity Chris Berry talks with Steven Stoney of Carlesmoor House Farm, Kirkby Malzeard There surely can’t be a much more heart-warming story of a young couple getting started on their own farm in recent times than that of Steven Stoney and Jessica Worsnop of Carlesmoor House Farm in Kirkby Malzeard. “We were looking for a farm,” says Steven. “And we can’t quite believe how it has all worked out. The story behind where we are now is that I used to come up and help Geoff Lobley here when I was a teenager. I remember him telling me when I was 16, ‘if you’re saving money lad, you can come and live up here.’ To be fair, I never expected things to work out the way they have, even though Geoff mentioned it then, and Jessica and I will be forever grateful to him. “It was in 2018 that Geoff got wind of the fact that we were looking for a farm and when he found out, he
just said ‘I think it’s time you were coming’ so we got things sorted and moved in in January 2020. It has been unbelievable really, like a dream. This kind of thing doesn’t happen, but it did for us. We’ve now started a young family. We have 4 year old son Joseph and we just love it here. “I’d always wanted my own Swaledales and I have those now too. “Geoff still lives in his property next door, as there are two properties on the farm, and we did up the derelict property, completely gutting it initially. Geoff still has a bit of land and a few cows, and he comes and helps with his old International Tractor and we both do what we can for each other. “He owns all this land and has no sons or daughters. He wanted the farm to remain a working farm and certainly didn’t want to see it turned into something different. Steven grew up on his family’s farm with his parents Andrew and Sheila in Galphay. His father still farms, having a few cattle, but had handed the sheep over to him. “We now have 650 acres of grassland and a moors turnout
where our farmland joins the moorland. We have 50-60 acres at home with the rest all around Grantley and Winksley. Geoff is our landlord, we couldn’t ask for better. “Sheep are our biggest enterprise. We have 1000 breeding ewes, made up of 300 Swaledales, 120 Mules, 380 Texel X out of Mules; and 200 hoggs, which are 100 Swaledale, 50 Texel and 50 Mule. “We buy in all our Swaledale and Bluefaced Leicester tups. We bought some tups out of Barnard Castle last year and we buy one or two privately if we can. This year we’ve been to Skipton for our Swaledale tups.
89 “Most of our fat lambs go to Leyburn Auction Mart with some going via Pateley Auction Mart to ABP at York. Leyburn is our main market. “Our Swaledales are hefted to the moor. We’ll keep any ewes that are having single lambs, and the hoggs, on the moor. Any ewes that are having twins will stop inside for lambing which is in March and April. Steven says they’re having a bit of a change in their lambing pattern this coming year, which is mainly down to family logistics. “Jess is expecting our second child in January and so we’re not lambing Texels at that time, this year. We’ve always had them born in January to get some away early. We’ll go back to that next year. The farm enterprise is sheep and cattle. Steven and Jess have a suckler herd of 38 cows that currently includes 16 pedigree Hereford cows and with followers makes a herd of 120. It is the Hereford line that Steven is keen to pursue. “When we moved up here I bought 12 cows and calves off Geoff. They were Limmie and Angus X. We’ve got a mix of all-sorts now, including a lot of Hereford X, pedigree Herefords, Angus X and Blue X. We are producing calves for ABP York. We calve during the autumn and winter. “We would like to transfer the whole herd to Hereford eventually. We have our Herefords in a partnership with a good friend Lucy Moore. We have started showing them
“We’ve had a few second places, but we also had reserve champion at Wensleydale Show with a year old heifer and had a first and three seconds at Nidderdale Show. Next year we would like to have a crack at the Great Yorkshire Show and a few more. “We bought some privately from Welburn Herefords near Helmsley and some off Matt Taylor of Taymar Livestock. We have had a calf from our own pedigree stock already and we bought another from the Coley herd. We aim to breed our own heifers and replacements. Apart from two pedigree cows bought two years ago everything else has arrived this year. “We have two Hereford bulls that we are now using on both our commercial cattle and the pedigrees. One came from Clitheroe and the other from Whitehill Herefords at Burnsall. I prefer autumn calving as it makes the young stock bigger for show season. Steven says that Jess’ showing pedigree is already proven with horses, and so it is no surprise that they are already doing well with the Herefords. “Jess has shown Clydesdales and has qualified for the Horse of the Year Show in the past. While she
Steven says that they are farming self-sufficiently.
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“Jess and I do most of the prepping and I’m actually quite enjoying it and looking forward to where we’re going with it. I was involved with Winksley-cum-Grantley YFC in stockjudging and used to do well.
is largely on the farm she is also widely respected in the Clydesdale world. She enjoys breaking and riding Clydesdale horses for Kate Smith at Ripley and the Bedfords at Whixley.
“We grow all our own feed apart from hard feed like barley, nuts and concentrates that we source from Jamesons or I’Ansons in Masham. We grow and harvest all our own hay and haylage. “I also supplement our income by taking on driving work, contracting for JR Middleton of Masham. I’ll turn my hand to anything. “These past four years have been so exciting. We are now in a position where we pretty much know where we want to go, looking forward. We will continue building our numbers up and trying to breed something as good or better than anyone else, whether that be Swaledale sheep or Hereford cattle. Steven says he is fortunate to have his cousin, land agent and property adviser Andrew Hardcastle, who advises on such as stewardship schemes and the new Sustainable Farming Incentives. “The Single Farm Payment will hurt when it has gone, but hopefully more schemes will come along. We haven’t signed up for anything yet. We are sat on the fence at the moment with things like ELMS and SFA but Andrew should be able to point us in the right direction. “But most importantly at the moment life is pretty brilliant, we couldn’t be in a better place and we really can’t thank Geoff enough.
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this year. I’d always thought that was not really me. The girls do the showing and I just sit there and reap the rewards. I’m the muscle.
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Black Baldies do the business at Drumdow
91 At 17, the oldest female in the Drumdow Black Baldie herd is still going strong after 16 trouble-free calvings. Her longevity is remarkable but not unusual in Robert Parker’s herd where most cows breed well into their double digits. It reflects the trouble-free system that Robert has honed in the last 25 years, since shifting from continental breeds to crossbreeding with Hereford and Aberdeen Angus genetics. Not only has he produced the ideal suckler cow to withstand the challenging climate typical of Drumdow, his 231ha farm at Ervie, near Stranraer, but that crossbreeding programme allows him and his buyers to maximise what is arguably a farm’s most valuable resource, grass. Robert is the third generation of his family to farm in Drumdow. His grandfather came to the area as a tenant dairy farmer on the holding neighbouring Drumdow. Robert’s father made such a success of farming too and that enabled him to buy more land to provide all three of his sons with a farm. Eschewing the family tradition of dairying, Robert chose to establish a suckler beef enterprise. “I didn’t want to be milking cows for a living, I thought there were easier ways to make a living!’’ he laughs. For him to pursue that ambition it also meant establishing his own business as the Suckler Cow Premium available in the eighties was only open to businesses that didn’t have a dairy herd.
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Crossbreeding with native breeds has created the perfect female that thrives in a fully outdoor forageonly system. Robert Parker explains why the Hereford is the magic cross.
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He developed the beef herd using continental breeds but they struggled on his system of outwintering on 49ha of rough grazing. He ran into trouble with poor conception rates, difficult calvings and temperament. “Some of the issues were social issues but some of the breeds were just too soft to perform outdoors, they wouldn’t get beyond five or six calves,’’ Robert recalls. In 2001 he made his first tentative steps towards switching his focus to more maternal breeds, buying some Black Baldie heifers from his neighbour, respected Hereford bull breeder, John Douglas. The big shift came after 2006 when Robert studied beef production from native breeds as a Nuffield Scholar. During his travels he saw how well cows performed in poor grassland areas in Argentina. There are now 220 Black Baldy suckler cows and heifers in the Drumdow herd, a hybrid combination of genetics that produces easy-calving, docile cattle. Aberdeen Angus and Hereford cross cows are criss-crossed back and forth to Hereford and Angus bulls, with all females on an Angus passport mated to a Hereford, and vice versa. “The Hereford crossed with the Aberdeen Angus is the most perfect suckler cow,’’ Robert reckons. Not least because of the standard of the bulls he can buy nearby, he adds. “I can buy top quality bulls on
my doorstep from John and have been doing so for 25 years. “The Hereford has got docility and, because his bulls are horned, that adds a bit more size and muscle, it produces a stronger animal.’’ Using polled Angus and horned Hereford genetics over Hereford and Angus cross cows means that less than a fifth of the calves need dehorning. Nine bulls run with the herd for eight weeks from 4 July and are required to bull a group of 35 heifers and cows a year, or if the group is bigger at 50 both a young and a more mature bull are used. The herd calves at grass in April and May, achieving a calving rate of 93% compared to 82% in the previous system. “At 82%, 18% of the herd wasn’t producing a calf and that meant I was 18% down on numbers before I could even start thinking about culling for age, temperament or feet. It also means I have 11% more
calves to sell,’’ says Robert. That is good for sustainability and carbon footprint. “The easiest way to reduce carbon footprint and improve sustainability is for each cow to produce a calf and to do that at grass.’’ High fertility has also made a significant difference to the calving spread with the calving block reduced to eight weeks from 14, and with less than five per cent not in calf in the first six weeks. Calves are heavier at weaning because more are born in the first three weeks of the calving period Using the Hereford and Aberdeen Angus produces three different types of calf: all black, black and white and brown and white. Half of the Drumdow herd is black with a white face. During the grazing season, each group rotates around three fields; this might mean a group of 40 cows with calves at foot grazing a six hectare field for seven to ten days, depending on weather and grass growth. “It is a better system than using electric fences because electric fences and calves are not a good combination,’’ Robert points out. “There is only me and a man here so I try to keep it simple. We graze the field hard and then let it rest for two or three weeks.’’ There is a big percentage of clover in the leys, with fields oversown using a grass harrow. Calves are weaned at housing with
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nose flaps fitted 10 days before the youngstock are removed from their dam. “These work really well, it has cut out all the hassle and noise,’’ says Robert. He doesn’t get cases of pneumonia either, even though he doesn’t vaccinate for it, and that means less antibiotics used All calves are housed, in November or December and with their back and face hair clipped. Cows and in-calf heifers are outwintered after they have been scanned, given a full MOT and clipped, dosed for worms and fluke, blood tested for Johnes and had their feet checked. Thanks to a strict culling policy, foot health is exceptional. “I only have to treat five or six feet a year,’’ says Robert. “If I have to lift an animal’s feet twice her card is marked because I don’t want to breed from her, it mostly follows that her daughters and her daughters’ daughters will also have feet issues.’’ Steers are sold as stores out of the shed in the first week on April at United Auctions in Stirling – they will have weaned at an average of 300kg and grown at 1kg/day indoors on ad lib first cut silage with a 2kg ration of dark grains, beet pulp, barley from the 16ha grown on-farm, yeast and a mineral. They average 400kg at sale but with some as heavy as 500kg. Robert always makes a point of standing in the ring with his animals when they are being sold. “The
buyers can see that the calves are quiet and that I have complete confidence in them. “Temperament is one of the best attributes of using a Hereford and I think this also makes them grow quicker because they aren’t jumping around.’’ Good nature in a beef animal is vital, he adds. “I’m not the youngest chicken now, I don’t want to be jumping over gates to get away from an animal.’’ He has a simple list of his requirements of a cow. “I want an animal that is easy to keep through the summer, feed a calf, get back in calf and take a bit of condition into the winter that can be used to keep her and reduce her feed costs over the winter.’’ Heifers are turned out to grass in mid to late April, that docility
evident then also. “We walk them down along the main road to the field, perhaps 95 at a time, because they don’t get spooked, when we had other breeds we needed a float just to move them that short distance.’’ These are sold as breeding stock, guaranteed for fertility, vaccinated for blackleg and BVD, and Johnes and TB4 accredited, or retained as replacements. There is one downside to the success of Robert’s breeding programme – he gets very few repeat orders because within two years customers are so pleased with their animals that they buy their own bulls and start breeding their own replacements. Despite that, there is never a shortage of customers. “There are plenty of farmers looking for an easy care, designed-for-the-job Hereford with a nice temperament and a high health status.’’ The bulls he sources from John haven’t been pushed hard and for Robert that is a very important consideration. He wants bulls that are in their natural state, that haven’t received supplementary feed except silage over the winter. “I don’t get any bother with them, they don’t go off their feet. We have bulls still working that are eight or nine years old.’’ When he is selecting on Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs), the milk figure is important as is the maternal index.
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Robert calves his own replacements at 24 months and, because he has confidence in every animal, those that he retains will depend on the requirements of his buyers in that year. “I keep what others that year are not looking for,’’ he explains. “We have had a run of buyers who want Hereford on the passport, some want all black, brown and white, black and white, it is different with every buyer. “I have one buyer who wants 10 of my smallest every year to calve at two and a half years because he breeds them to a Saler and sells them with their calves at foot.’’ Getting the herd to where it is today has required a strict culling policy. “Anything that annoys me doesn’t get used again, I want an animal that hasn’t given me any hassle, one that hasn’t needed her feet lifting or intervention with a bad calving,’’ Robert insists. He believes the Hereford’s place in commercial herds is assured but he does have reservations with smaller, show herds. “I understand why people love to show the Hereford, it is a great animal to parade around the ring, but the commercial guy is looking
for a breeder who hasn’t pushed animals for the showring, who has 30 or 40 bulls with full health status to sell, because it gives them the choice of buying the one they want. “Showing needs to change, animals mustn’t be fed so much. It is the ruination of many a good animal – fertility, longevity, feet, all can be ruined by over-feeding.’’ Concentrating on maternal, grassfed beef is the way forward, he suggests. Using native genetics also produces steers that finish well. “Finishers like cattle that they can turn out to grass, animals that trot
out of the float and are still in the field the next morning because they haven’t jumped the fence and just eat grass all summer long and put on beef.’’ "And the eating quality of that beef is second to none", Robert adds. “By combining the Hereford and the Aberdeen Angus you are bringing together two of the best eating quality breeds in the world." “It is important to look after the consumer. The buyer wants a R3L/ R4L carcass, something with a bit of fat, marbling and yield, and you get that with grass-fed, naturally reared native breeds like the Hereford.’’
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President hosts visit of Welsh young farmers A group of Welsh young farmers recently visited the farm of the Hereford Society PresidentDavid Smyth. The visit was part of a wider itinerary which had been drawn up to allow the young farmers get a sense of how diversification is being addressed within Irish agriculture. David Smyth farms close to the town of Ballynahinch in Co Down. Angharad Thomas, from Ceredigion, is Chair of Wales Young Farmers’ Clubs (YFC) Rural Affairs Committee. She explained: “There are opportunities for farmers throughout Wales to diversify their businesses. This is particularly so for young
Visiting the Co Down farm of Hereford Society President, David Smyth, l to r: Cai Edwards Nelson, South Wales; Ted Price Nelson, South Wales; Rhianne Huntley, Pontypridd, FFian Huntley, Pontypridd; Daniel Ernie, Ystradfellte people setting out on a career in
David commented:
agriculture.
“It was a pleasure to host the visit. It provided the members of the group with an opportunity to get a sense of the investment made on the farm over many years and the role that Hereford cattle can play at the very heart of the beef industry.
“We are in Ireland for four days to see how a range of farms are planning for the future.”
“In my own case, the focus is very much on a low input system.” The Hereford Society president has worked closely with YFC groups in Northern Ireland. He explained: “Visits to the farm provide the young people with an opportunity to gauge the latest trends in cattle breeding and to assess the various aspects of beef production in a relaxed atmosphere.” Hereford Society President, David Smyth, chatting to Angharad Thomas (left) and Mirain Thomas from Ceredignion
The Smyth farm is home to 28 cows and followers. It extends to 100ac.
97 Over many years, he has worked closely with, and for, Hereford breeders at both a local and national level. His interest in Hereford cattle straddles two fundamental parameters. The first is an absolute passion for the heritage of the breed and the second being that he believes that the Hereford can deliver a real solution for agriculture as the industry faces up to the challenge of climate change and the need to secure higher levels of sustainability. “Hereford cattle are renowned for the quality of the beef they produce,” he explained. “However, they are also extremely efficient, when it comes to converting feed into muscle.” “Hereford cattle are proven to work in a lower input system, more dependent on long term meadow and herbal ley that encourage improvements to the land.”
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A pedigree breeder of some 20-years standing, David took on the presidency with a wealth of experience, gained both inside and outside the world.
Cow with calves at foot on the Co Down farm of Hereford Society President, David Smyth “I bought my first heifers in March 2003. My father had died a couple of months prior to this, and I made the decision to take the farm in a new direction,” he commented. “Here Hereford schemes have incentivised farmers to keep more Hereford cattle. In fact, all the local beef processers are operating some form of Hereford programme.” “However, it’s important that we get the price premiums available for certified Hereford beef further
strengthened.” Given the current climate, which sees farmers buying fertilizer and other inputs at extremely high prices, David Smyth believes strongly that the conditions are right to secure further inroads for Hereford cattle within the beef sector as a whole. “The facts speak for themselves,” he stressed. “Hereford cattle require less feed, to reach their finishing weights.”
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Heifers regularly for sale Visitors welcome David & Kate Dickinson Chattlehope House, Catcleugh, Newcastle upon Tyne NE19 1TY email: chattlehope@gmail.com tel: 01830 520856 or 07881 379809
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99 By Sam Lane Technical Manager Cotswold Seed Ltd One of the best known proponents was Newman Turner who explained this idea in his books ‘ Fertility Pastures’ and ‘Fertility Farming’. Other Herbal Ley enthusiasts like William Lamin identify the positive benefits of mixing deep rooting species on dry land, while in earlier work Robert Elliot explains his Clifton Park farming system as a way of improving soil fertility alongside livestock production. Broadly speaking the idea is creating a low input system, using a mix of plant species that can be sown to support livestock
production, improve soil fertility and as an extra bonus improve resources for wildlife, especially pollinators. More recently we have seen these sorts of mixes called Multi Species Swards (MSS) or Diverse seed mixtures, in effect they are all doing the same job of combining different plants to produce multiple benefits. Bringing different plant species together can create a range of positive benefits. Legumes fix atmospheric nitrogen making it available to the surrounding plants, as well as leaving a source of nitrogen for the following crop. This helps reduce the need for expensive artificial fertiliser, recent events on the world stage have shown how volatile the prices of this commodity can be from year to year or even month to month. The inclusion of legumes, such as clovers and trefoils can also help boost the protein in forage mixtures. Some clovers can boost the protein levels in grazed forage by as much as 6-8% compared to grass only swards. This again helps to keep down the need for imported protein, helping to save money and reduce the reliance on things like Soya which have a large Carbon footprint.
Many of the species included in Herbal Leys are naturally deep rooting plants, such as Red Clover, Chicory, Cocksfoot and Tall Fescue. Recent dry periods over the last few years have shown how resilient these species can be during periods of low rainfall. Many farmers have noted how these mixes ‘stayed green’ much longer than their more mainstream mixtures, which often centre around shallow rooted Perennial Ryegrass and White Clover. One area that has lacked research until recently was the ability of Herbal Leys to provide a more nutritionally balanced diet for livestock, compared to simple seed mixtures. Many forage herbs naturally contain minerals in their leaves, these deep rooting plants also have the ability to draw up nutrients from further down in the soil profile. Building on a small amount of work carried out on a Wiltshire Farm in the 1970s, Rothamsted Research recently carried out a project to assess the mineral composition of various cultivated and wild species at North Wyke in Devon. These studies have highlighted that certain herb species can help boost the availability of nutrients. As an example Plantain and Chicory
Photo courtesy of Ian Boyd Whittington Lodge Farm, Gloucestershire.
The idea behind Herbal Ley seed mixtures according to the earliest advocates was to grow a seed mix which combined the feed merchant, vet and fertiliser manufacturer all in one.
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What are these Herbal Leys
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Photo courtesy of Ian Boyd Whittington Lodge Farm, Gloucestershire.
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have twice the amount of Selenium than a Ryegrass plant, while Burnet is naturally high in cobalt, which is important for embryo development in pregnant animals. These findings can help to provide a more overall balanced diet and reduce the likelihood of mineral deficiencies in livestock. We have seen increasing interest in Herbal Leys, the Countryside Stewardship (CS) option GS4 helped introduce this sort of mix to a range of farmers across the country as part of their environmental stewardship package. More recently the roll out of the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) has also offered options farmers can choose from to fit their farm. The Herbal Ley option comes under the code SAM3 and requires a mix to be sown of grasses, legumes and herbs to improve soil structure, along with locking up Carbon and boosting soil fertility and biology. It should be noted that the SFI option is less prescriptive than CS, with a wider interpretation of the seed mix required and less restrictions around grazing timings and exclusion periods.
As is the case with much of in methane emissions and less reliance on artificial wormers. farming, many things are circular LoremThe ipsum root source of these positive and not much is truly new, it’s trends is combining grasses, certainly the case with ‘these legumes and herbs in a high quality Herbal Leys’, however as the herbal ley, with managed grazing. interest in this area grows, it’s reassuring to see a trend of more For more information on the and more data from recent projects species included in herbal leys and which shows positive trends grazing management strategies around Herbal Leys, including please refer to www.cotswoldseeds. matching or outyielding fertilised com or call and request a ‘Herbal Ryegrass swards over the course Ley Farming System’ hardcopy booklet. of the growing year, a reduction
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Celebrating 50 years with the Fisher herd We catch up with breeder Reg Hutchings to reflect on his herd, Fisher Herefords, 50 years from its establishment. Some boys grow up with talk of football clubs at the kitchen table, newspapers dog eared on pages of club triumphs. For Reg Hutchings, it was discussions of pedigree cattle, the men in his life pouring over lineage and yield. In the days where dairy farms were small but plentiful, Reg’s grandfather milked a pedigree herd of Guernseys. Reg’s father followed in his dads’ footsteps, continuing as a dairy farmer but choosing to change team in favour of Aryshires. The farm the family called home was tenanted and when it came time to Reg to take the reins,
it wasn’t long until he met at a crossroad in the future of his business. The passing of his landlord disrupted the future of the holding. Faced with two options, he either looked for a new facility to rent or purchase the property.
in different stages of their arable rotation. Running down to the farm by car you can be greeted by sweetcorn, courgettes, and lettuce as well as other produce growing in the fields amongst the myriad of rifes and ditches.
Choosing to invest in the purchase of Fisher Farm, the decision was made to disperse the dairy herd, in doing so supplemented by the sale of existing properties, the family were able to raise the capital to secure their future in farming. Reg, alongside his parents and brothers now had a farm of their own, but the only stock remaining were a few retained heifers. It wasn’t obvious at the time, but this clean slate would make way for a passion of a lifetime. The ties may have been cut with dairy farming, but Reg would continue as a thirdgeneration pedigree breeder.
At the time of purchasing the farm, the area was brimming with dairy farmers. It was at this point a friend purchased a poll Hereford bull, an acquisition that Reg assisted in, with this strike of fate the seed was planted. Having previously utilised Hereford bulls within his own dairy operation, even turning the remaining heifers following the dispersal, he had seen firsthand their capabilities. This alongside a ready-made customer base on his doorstep, cemented his decision to progress with the investment of Hereford cattle. A decision that worked in the breeders’ favour, as he sold up to 20 bulls a year to this sector.
The ground surrounding Fisher Farm, is excellent grade 1 arable land, sought after by vegetable growers. Looking at the property on google maps, the landscape is made up of a patchwork of fields
At this point the Hereford was at peak popularity. It wouldn’t be uncommon for Hereford Market to have 400 bulls on parade with
103 From the herds conception, Reg was insistent that he purchased animals correct to his ideals. This would set him a firm foundation to build upon. He aimed for animals that met the demands of the market. Being an ex-dairy farmer, it offered him a unique insight into the requirement of the customers he planned to target. It was this understanding that led him to the selection of polled Hereford cattle, offering the added value of minimising the farmers workload with the young stock and help create an animal with lower management and safety requirements. Top of his list was to create cows with great conformation, correctness, and mothering qualities. Possessing the capability of breeding and rearing bull calves to sell to dairy farmers to add value to their dairy/beef calves. With his objectives identified, he went out to market. Meticulous and well organised, at home there sits a small black notebook. At first glance this unassuming piece of stationery would be easily overlooked as being unremarkable. However, on closer inspection it contains the history of the Fisher herd. All the animals that have been purchased, bred, or sold pass through its pages. From the very first all the way through to today.
adding value by improving size and conformation. At his peak he took the Interbreed Champion title in 1985 at the Royal Highland Show. Described on the day by the Hereford class judge, Mr Everall as ‘A good bull with a lot of meat and he performs well. He is a first-class breeding animal and a first-class commercial beast as well’. Having built up a customer base of local dairy farmers, other pedigree breeders began taking an interest in the Fisher herd, looking to acquire animals to utilise within their own breeding programs. ‘Kingsland 1 Orange a line we still have running today, was the next animal who made an improvement to our herd.” Another cow who added structure to the breeding. The herd was developing in line with the original vision but the purchase of one bull catapulted the herd ahead. The landscape of beef farming in the UK was changing. French breeds had arrived on the shores of the UK, first with the Charolais, then the Limousin. Native breeds, known to be smaller framed animals, were at risk of becoming redundant in the shadow of these fast maturing, larger, leaner creatures. Alongside a group of breeders who recognised this threat, the decision was made to invest in further stock from Canada. The poll Herefords had been bred taller and leaner than those inhabiting the UK.
This book identified lines of cattle that still exist in his herd today leading back to the very first led off the box. ‘Warehead 1 Cheerful, Warehead 1 Eva, Wayland 1 Hardy, Wayland 1 Susan, Wilcot 1 Jane all had a large influence on the herd. They weren’t large cows, but they had the conformation and correctness that I was looking for.’ Wanting to improve the scale of the cows Kilmorlie Banker was purchased within a syndicate, shared between breeders, Reg, Mr Bryan Walling of Cumbria, and Ann Hardy. Imported from Canada, Reg describes Banker as a ‘bull before his time’,
Reg Hutchings with Fisher 1 Cracker
Spotting these genetics and traits as a necessity to stay relevant in the UK market Harvie Anxiety was imported, selected for the scale that he would bring to his progeny. ‘The bull was large, even by todays standards. His impact on the herd was invaluable, adding tremendous scale and bone. The polls at the time lacked size and substance, this is what he brought as well as muscle.’ Explained Reg. For a period, Herefords were still making strong money with a combination of private and society sales they were a financially viable enterprise. Until the 1990’s came. The drop in confidence of the breed alongside a lack of demand from the supermarkets leads to lowered selling prices, doubled with a large workload, Reg made the decision to cut the Hereford numbers back. It was at this point that Reg decided to purchase Salers. For years he was heavily involved with the Saler society, sitting on council. The period stretching from the 1990’s to 2005, at the same time purchasing Aberdeen Angus stock as well. Before the introduction of Saler to Fisher Farm, he did consider Charolais but was deterred by stories of bad temperaments. The Limousin wasn’t off the cards, however on reflection, there was a large influx of breeding looking to establish pedigree Limousin herds. This rush caused
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sales lasting two days. They were a stable of pastoral scenes, imported as far afield as Argentina.
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a massive increase in purchase costs. For those breeders looking to obtain the top bloodlines for their foundation herd, it wasn’t as financially viable as other available options. This further bolstered the decision to continue with the development of the Saler herd. Looking for good quality stock to fit his vision during this time was a struggle. Until he came across Costhorpe 1 Top Gun bred by HW Coates, with stockman Steve Edwards. ‘That bull helped regain my confidence in the breed.’ Costhorpe 1 Top Gun went on to sire a top cow retained for breeding, Fisher 1 Susan V65. From this cow, from the Susan family, Fisher 1 Cracker was born, sired by Doonbiddie Hustler an Australian bull. Cracker went forward to have a successful showing career winning eight out of the nine shows he attended. Taking the Supreme Champion title at the National Poll Show 2008 was a particularly proud moment for the breeder. Overseeing the proceedings on the day, judge Bill Quan of Wormbridge, Hereford, said “no doubt from when we clapped eyes on him, Fisher 1 Cracker was an easy and outstanding Champion, big enough yet not extreme, correct and mobile, muscular and classy colour and character”. In his time Cracker collected numerous titles, including multiple interbreed champions, one under the scrutiny of a judge who at home, bred Aberdeen Angus.
Fisher 1 Cracker Following success in the ring, Cracker went on to breed, what Reg describes as the best bull that he has bred to date, Fisher 1 Jaguar. “Where Cracker was our most successful show bull, Jaguar was built for breeding and became our most successful breeding bull.”
Alongside newly developed Hereford meat schemes, established in the early 2000s, helping to improve the price of the animals, Reg found his passion for the breed reignited. This became the catalyst for the dispersal of the Salers and Angus from the herd.
Demand from Denmark saw two hundred straws head to Denmark, this request set the wheels in motion for Jaguar sons’ semen to be held by Genus and National Cattle Breeders in Ireland.
In 2005, the last of the Salers and Angus cattle left the holding, but the Herefords remained. With council experience under his belt and associations no longer conflicting with other breeds, it was time for Reg to join the Hereford cattle society, becoming an active member in request for further improvement of the data captured and help. ‘I am so pleased to see linear scoring and genomics introduced into the society. It will help continue to develop the breed and ensure we are still relevant and breeding desirable stock.” He remained on council for 12 years and became society president in 2010.
Success for the line continued when Jaguar son, Fisher 1 Prospect took the top spot in 2019 at the Royal Three Counties show. Jaguar was purchased by Peter and Janet Vaughan, Kingsland Herefords, his semen still available for purchase holding a strong price per straw and sitting in the top 5% for calving ease.
Throughout his career, the Fisher herd saw success within the society sale ring, with a Cracker son reaching the top call.
Fisher 1 Jaguar J347
At home Reg still actively farms with much of the original bloodlines still in place. Over the years he has perfected a routine that works for himself, his animals, and his ground. At the peak of operations, the herd run over 600 acres, currently the cattle graze over 100 acres comprising of owned and rented land.
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The cattle are calved from March onwards. Held indoors until 10th April and then calved outdoors thereafter. At its busiest, there will be 145 animals on the holding. Cows and calves are given priority on the grass, at a grazing rate of one cow and calf to 1.5 acres. They are rotationally paddock grazed. ‘We like to take a common-sense approach to grazing; we tend to move them monthly but keep an eye that they’re not running short.” Calves are then creeped at a rate of 1 lbs per month of age topping out at 4.5kg on the run up to weaning, with animals born before June weaned on the 10th December. The weaning weight of heifers average 420kg, with bull calves averaging 480kg. Breeding cows are fed on pasture with no supplemented feed. Once they’ve had their feed as calves, they won’t be offered concentrates again. Heifers are naturally served at 2 years of age, with calving ease being a priority.
Fisher 1 Susan V65, mother of Cracker with 7 month old calf at foot compound issues within the breed. Keeping eyes on the commercial aspect helps keep them relevant.” After 50 years working alongside
the Hereford, it is clear to see that the couple have not lost their passion for the breed and looking back, cherish the success they have seen at shows and sales.
In his 80’s Reg is active and able, a testament to his love of sports. It was this love that led him to meet his wife Sheila through a mutual friend on a squash court. The couple joke that it was his athletic ability that caught Sheila’s eye. Originally from London, not from a farming background someone who had always loved animals and country life. Sheila was a natural showman. ‘I would prep them for the showring, although I may not have turned them out the best Sheila would really showcase them.’
Fisher 1 Valentino
Around their home are small signs of a life dedicated to the breed. A ceramic Hereford bull, crafted by Sheila’s mum, holds pride of place above the entrance to their home and a painting of a favoured bull near to the study. “The commercial value of the cattle is the backbone of the breed. The breed will not advance if there isn’t a prime commercial emphasis. My focus has always been on the commercial viability of the cattle I breed.” Reg continues, “They must not be too small with too much fat cover. The small bulls for the dairy market intended for maiden heifers’
Reg & Sheila Hutchings & with National Poll Champion Fisher 1 Cracker
FISHER
A FINE EXAMPLE OF OUR BREEDING PLAN
Thankyou to all purchasers of our cattle.We wish you every success with them. Visitors welcome by appointment.
Fisher 1 Valentino V536
Contact Reg Hutchings on 07881 944394 or 01243 262252 E-mail: rj_hutchings@yahoo.com
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Traditionally Herefordshire’s ‘emblem’ has been the apple, after the county’s cider heritage – did you know that Herefordshire produces over half of the UK’s cider, is home to the largest cider producer in the world, Bulmers, and remains the British region with the most cider orchards? But equally prominent is the marque of the iconic Hereford bull. Hereford Football Club has long carried a bull’s head as its image of power and the Team is still affectionately referred to as ‘The Bulls’. When they made their first ever appearance at Wembley stadium in 2016 the ground allowed, for the first and only time in its history, an animal onto its hallowed turf; Ronaldo the prized Hereford bull, loaned by world famous cider producers Westons Cider, from their family farm near Ledbury. The sheer sight of Hereford cattle in the lush green Herefordshire pastures is your welcome to the region. Not that you won’t see Hereford’s all over the UK and, as we know, the world, but there’s something particularly contentful seeing them on their home ground, tended by generations of farmers who have bred nothing else and care deeply about the Hereford’s provenance. The Hereford’s succulent meat has certainly influenced local restaurants in their menus. Indeed Hereford City’s first independent ‘meat boutique’ burger and cocktail joint, The Beefy Boys, took their Hereford beef burgers to the World Food Championships in Las Vegas to represent the UK, against 50 other teams from across the globe… they came second! It really is all about the meat. The owner of Hereford City’s luxury hotel Castle House is himself a Hereford cattle farmer. Run by his equally cattle-committed son George, the restaurant’s elevated menu will serve no other beef. And distinctive central hotel, The Green Dragon, has even named its brasserie
The Hereford in honour of its heritage. Marvel too at the stunning life-sized bronze Hereford bull statue in the City Centre, donated by a local benefactor. While Hereford Cattle have spread their roots across the world, valued for their calm temperament, good size and yield, and climate hardiness, they strongly remain in the fabric of Herefordshire’s UK farming backbone, a hospitality leader, and bold iconic symbol of the county. Come to Herefordshire, the original home of Hereford Cattle, and experience this wonderful beast in its indigenous habitat, from gate to plate. To get the best from your visit and find wonderful places to eat, sleep and enjoy, including fantastic festivals and events look on www. eatsleepliveherefordshire.co.uk or contact info@ eatsleepliveherefordshire.co.uk for help and ideas.
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Experience The Indigenous Home Of The Hereford
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The Rogers Pedigree T John Vaughan, in his book ‘The Hereford’ identified three top male lines as the breed entered the twentieth century: that of Sir David through Sir Benjamin, Sir Thomas, Sir Roger, Lord Wilton and Monarch; Franky/ Anxiety starting with Dinedor, via Walford, Fisherman, Good Boy, and Albion; and the Horace line including The Grove 3rd. All three had Rogers family input. Sir Benjamin (1387), Sir Roger (4133), and The Grove 3rd (5051) were bred by Benjamin Rogers (18161900) of The Grove, Pembridge, and Fisherman (5913) by Ben’s nephew Thomas Rogers (1837-97) of Coxall, Shropshire. Add in ‘two of the finest show bulls ever seen’, afterwards exported to the USA - Grateful (4622) and Archibald (6290) bred by Tom’s older brother Aaron Rogers (1833-1906) of The Rodd, Presteigne, and it is clear why Vaughan wondered ‘where the Hereford breed would be without the contributions of the Rogers family’. Clive Davies has identified Rogers cattle genes in today’s very different Herefords. In 1872, Tom registered Miss Conrad, from whose daughter, Coquette, emerged the Countess line which, via the Eyton Countesses, produced, in 1939, Vern Robert (67228). His dam had Countess blood on both sides. Tom’s herd has also fed into one line of the 2023 National Herd of the Year. The
polled Queen family of Studdolph, Pembrokeshire can be traced back fourteen generations to Tom’s Coxall Beauty, calved 1868. She was sired by Sir Thomas (2228, a son of Ben’s Sir Benjamin), and her dam (Victoria) was by Tom’s Young Royal (1470). The Rogers made other contributions. Aaron sat on the committee of Herefordshire Agricultural Society and on the founding Council of the Herd Book Society (1879). Tom ‘The Invincible’, won over two hundred show prizes. He also formed an auctioneering partnership with John Hamar. Legendary Rogers & Hamar herd sales included those of William Tudge at Adforton in 1877 and Philip Turner of The Leen in 1883. At The Leen, Tom knocked down The Grove 3rd bred by his uncle Ben,
for 810 gnas to CM Culbertson, for export to the USA, a market that Tom did much to open up. The same marketing instinct led Rogers and Hamar to publish Hereford Transactions, including accounts of important herds, which proved invaluable to MacDonald and Sinclair’s 1886 breed history. Between them, the three Rogers exported cattle to Ireland, Scotland, Australia, New Zealand, Jamaica, Canada and the USA. Clearly, they contributed significantly at a key time in the breed’s dissemination. So who were the influences on them and where did their livestock talent come from? Common to all three was John Rogers (1798-1862) Ben’s oldest brother, and the father of Aaron and Tom. In age, Ben fell about half way between John and his sons, so
109 together they sustained a relay of Rogers herd energy. John supplied cattle to Ben, Aaron and Tom, but dying in the year the second Herd Book was published, he is little known. His 1846 registration Gallant (239, calved 1840) was sired by Edward Jeffries’ bull Charity (375); the dam was John’s homebred Tulip, sired by Cupid (195) belonging to Sir Frankland Lewis of Harpton Court, Kington. John farmed Pilleth Court, Radnorshire, the Rogers’ home from 1807. This was hillside farming on the upper River Lugg, near William Tudge at Great House, Llangunllo, and adjoining, from 1828, James Rea at Monaughty. (There were two other Herefordbreeding brothers between John and Ben: Aaron (1805-27) who farmed at Lower House, Stansbatch, the Leys, Weobley and The Homme, Dilwyn who registered only two bulls, in 1865, but whose son John (born 1829) farmed Letchmoor, Presteigne and Pipton, Glasbury and registered twenty-five Herefords between 1865 and 1885; and David (18071866) a bachelor, who farmed The Rodd before Aaron, four of whose Herefords Ben registered posthumously.)
Once John’s son Aaron turned twenty-one and took on Pilleth, John moved down the Lugg (closer to his brother David at The Rodd)
MacDonald and Sinclair state that John’s herd was founded on cows from James Ricketts (1790-1846) and Sir Frankland Lewis. Like John, Ricketts is somewhat overlooked. He farmed The Batch at Sarnesfield Court, Weobley, Herefordshire from 1820-34, then Upper Broxwood, Pembridge until his death. Ricketts built his herd on Hewer strains light greys and mottles from Tully of Huntington abounded. He won at Hereford Agricultural Society show in 1832 with a pair of heifers against Tully of Clyro, Turner of Noke, and Lord Talbot. On the sale of Ricketts’ herd in 1846, prospective buyers were informed that his friendship with
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to Stocken near Presteigne, on the Boultibrook estate, whose home farm he also grazed. The newspaper account of his retirement sale at Presteigne Fair on 13th October 1862 mentions his ‘high reputation’ and that he had brought to his herd ‘increasing attention, unerring judgment, and unlimited expense’. John died within a week of the sale, on 19th October.
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Thomas Jeffries of the Grove had resulted in his use of bulls Cotmore, Confidence, Charity, and Westonbury, ‘and the young stock are worthy of their sires.’ The twenty-nine head included the three year old light grey bull Broxwood (485) illustrated in the first Herd Book. Ricketts’ herd was said ‘to be the nearest allied to the well remembered herds of Huntington and Thingehill, combining the greatest weight with the finest quality.’ Many were descended from a prize-winning Huntington grey cow, Beauty who, aged fourteen, had reared fourteen calves. John’s use of Ricketts’ white or mottled cattle shows how early he was - before breed characteristics were fixed. John was supposedly the last man to use John Hewer’s great bull Sovereign (404, calved 1820), besides Jeffries’s Cotmore (376, by Sovereign), Confidence (367) and Portrait (372), Edward Price of Pembridge’s The Count (1760) and Sir David the Second (1065), and his own Young Royal (1470, by Royal 331, a son of Cotmore). Such was the quality with which Ben began breeding cattle at Doluggan, near Pilleth, taking four heifers by Cupid (198) from John’s herd, and six by Batch (468) from Ricketts (presumably on John’s advice). In 1841 he bred Charity the Second (1535) having used Edward Jeffries’s Charity on Silver, the calf of one of John’s Cupid heifers. Her name didn’t necessarily denote colour, but the grey persisted through Ben’s bull The Grove (1764). Aaron left Pilleth when, in 1866, he succeeded his uncle David at The Rodd. Aaron too bought cattle from John, and from David’s sale Aaron added more ‘females of the old family strains’. Four more came from brother Tom at Coxall, plus Silver (perhaps the same?) from his uncle Ben, and Lady Court Lass (bred by his father in 1861) who was to produce Grateful. From his neighbour Thomas Rea, Aaron bought his first bull, Village (1791) and he used Sir Benjamin, bred by his uncle Ben and sold to Rea (to Ben’s eternal regret). Friendship with former neighbour Tudge, from
1852 of Adforton, appears through his use of Stanway (2790). John’s younger son Tom first registered cattle from his herd at Coxall in 1865, and from 1879-mid1880s at The Field, Hereford. After giving up breeding for auctioneering, he lived from 1888 at Huntington Court, Holmer. The Coxall herd was founded on ‘cows purchased from the elder members of the Rogers family’ (MacDonald and Sinclair) and built upon by use of the best sires.
selective breeding. Russell, the auctioneer at Aaron’s Rodd herd sale in 1902, supported this, saying that ‘both Mr A Rogers’ father and grandfather [were] breeders of high repute’. This concurs with evidence held by today’s head of the family, Ben’s great-grandson, ninety-nine year old Jim Rogers.
The interchange of Rogers Hereford bloodlines is discernible in Tom’s most famous cow Beau Ideal (calved 1865). Her sire was Matchless (2110) bred by his uncle Ben at The Grove, but owned by cousin John at Letchmoor, Presteigne. Matchless’s dam was by his late-father John’s Young Royal (1469) and his ggdam was by Ben’s Charity the Second.
Jim has an 1814 pocket diary of his great-great-grandfather Aaron, the first Rogers at Pilleth. It lists his eighteen cows that ‘toke bull’ between 13th February and 10th June. The bull’s name isn’t given, but when Ben’s herd was dispersed at The Grove seventy-two years later, it still included cows called Prettymaid, Cherry, Lady and Daisy. Other Rogers pedigrees include Blowdy, Stately, Lovely, and Nutty - one of David’s, bought by Ben in 1866. Jim attributes this to thrifty Radnorshire roots - they didn’t buy in cows, but instead improved and passed them between themselves.
Given the influence of John’s herd, it is notable that it was described as ‘the produce of 50 years’ work’. This dates its foundation to 1812, when John was fourteen, so it appears that John’s father Aaron Rogers (1762-1825) had begun
The Rogers don’t have any of these lines today. When Jim succeeded his father at Upper Heath, Presteigne in 1965, the ‘old family strains’ were still in the yard. “I had ‘em all,” Jim recalls, “but it was me that got rid of ‘em. I was
111 Jim shares one final surprise. In conversations recalled from childhood, Jim’s ancestors swore that the credit for cattle know-how belonged not to Aaron at Pilleth, but to his wife, Mary née Griffiths, whom he married in February 1795. “They all said it was her.” A check of their respective fathers and grandfathers’ wills corroborates the Griffiths’ greater investment in cattle. Mary, the only girl of seven children of David Griffiths and Jane Owens, would have grown up amid cattle conversation. She was alongside Aaron as he noted his crosses in 1814, and when widowed in 1825, she stayed on at Pilleth until John married in 1830. Mary then took her three youngest sons, including Ben
Rogers Tree (simplified) Aaron Rogers = Mary Griffiths (1762-1825) (1772-1855) Pilleth Court Pilleth Ct, Doluggan and The Grove John Rogers (1798-1862) Pilleth Ct Stocken and Boultibrook Aaron (1833-1906) Pilleth Court The Rodd
Aaron Rogers (1805-1870) Stansbatch The Homme The Leys
Thomas (1837-1897) Coxall The Field
David Rogers (1807-1866) The Rodd
John (b1829) Letchmoor Pipton
aged nine or ten, to Doluggan. Ben began his herd there in 1837 - his first registered bull was ‘Dollagan’ (759) whose granddam was by Edward Jeffries’ Portrait. The Jeffries connection ran deep. Ben’s older brother Aaron of Stansbatch was Treasurer of the committee that presented Thomas Jeffries with silver after his Royal Show triumph with Cotmore. Mary and Ben succeeded the Jeffries at The Grove in 1847. This mother and son farming partnership was
Benjamin Rogers (1816-1900) Doluggan The Grove
David (1858-1939) Stansbatch Grandfather of Jim
broken only by Mary’s death from pneumonia in January 1855, when Ben was nearly forty. Mary, eightytwo, had been out in a storm, driving cattle over the Arrow when she slipped from her horse into the river and broke her hip. Rogers Hereford success may owe more than we know to the female line.
by Catherine Beale For a longer account of The Rogers Pedigree, contact Catherine Beale on: emailcbeale@gmail.com
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clever, wasn’t I?” Jim was moving with the times, and the continental breeds were coming. He still has Sir Benjamin’s head, at least. Knowing how Ben regretted selling him, Thomas Rea arranged, after the old bull’s demise, to have the head stuffed, and gave it to Ben. The identifying spot of brown on his neck is clear.
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Science into practice: IVP Cattle breeders seeking to improve their herd’s genetic potential are introducing In-Vitro embryo Production (IVP), a costeffective service from specialist artificial breeding technology company, AB Europe. “IVP is a widely used method globally for producing embryos where it outcompetes MOET for its flexibility and multiple benefits to breeders and their donor animals,” explains AB Europe’s vet, Gavin Tait.
Vitrification hook “IVP is providing breeders with opportunities that could never have been dreamt of. The process features some of the most technically advanced procedures, initially developed in human IVF, to produce embryos from collected oocytes which are fertilized within a petri dish by selected semen and subsequently cultured for seven days until the fully developed embryos can be transferred or frozen. IVP can be performed in sexually mature heifers and in calf breeding females enabling cattle breeders to keep steps ahead.”
Heifers + IVP
AB vet, Gavin Tait
We are performing IVP in beef heifers at around 10 to 11 months of age, and dairy heifers from as young as eight months. There will be variation between breeds and individual animals mainly attributed to sexual maturity, however you should be able to gauge if she is sufficiently mature to collect from according to her size and if she has started to cycle. The IVP process allows you to start
collecting oocytes – unfertilised eggs, from heifers at a considerably younger age over MOET which requires animals to be 13 to 15 months of age and is more size dependent. Collecting oocytes from younger animals is enabling breeders to produce embryos and realise the potential from their highest genetic value animals much sooner. For example, if we collect from a nine-month-old heifer, her first calf will be born by the time she is 18 months of age. Young heifers are averaging around three embryos within a range of one to 10 embryos compared with cows averaging five, and we have found from experience that collecting at an early age doesn’t compromise her future breeding potential at all. We’ve collected from heifers which have gone on to achieve a normal pregnancy.
Pregnant donors + IVP IVP provides an exclusive opportunity to collect oocytes from in-calf females. The service
is practical up to 12 to 14 weeks of gestation, after which point it becomes very donor dependant as to whether her ovaries can still be reached by the vet. We carry out the same process as we do for non-pregnant animals, the success rate is the same and there is no difference in hold rates. IVP is allowing breeders to continue
Weybrook Weybrook Herefords Herefords
Picture perfect embryo. Inner cell mass (ICM) is neat and tidy with even cell size, shape and colour; no evidence of fragmentation
Grade 2
ICM cellular distribution less compact with minor fragmentation
Grade 3
No clear cellular boundaries with >50% fragmentation; not viable for freezing or transferring
to collect oocytes from their ‘best’ animal while she is in calf; they no longer have to hesitate whether or not to perform IVF and compromise her becoming out of synch with the rest of the in herd, or even miss a year of breeding.
is rapidly frozen on a specially designed hook. The technique prevents ice crystals forming within each embryo which could be detrimental when it thaws. It is also the preferred method of freezing used in human IVF. (See image)
Embryo vitrification
As long embryos are stored in liquid nitrogen they can be stored indefinitely, regardless of the processing or storage method. We find that Grade 1 embryos tend to hold equally as well, whether they are vitrified or conventionally frozen. However, there is a marked improved hold rate when Grade 2 embryos are vitrified. (See image)
Vitrification is another process which was developed in human IVF and has since been introduced to the cattle breeding sector. Vitrification features a two-part process; initially the embryo is dehydrated - all the liquid inside them is removed, after which it
Building on the excellent
Building on the excellent bloodlines Harold Hatt bloodlines carefully Harold bred hereHatt over many years we feel carefully bred here over privileged to take the herd many years we feel into a new generation and privileged to take the herd look forward to working with into a new and manygeneration of you over the coming months and years. look forward to working with many of you over the coming months and years.
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113 Embryos
Grade 1
RE POLL HEREFOR O S N DS LY Breeding quality Herefords Sire used in 2022: Netherhall 1 Oz Daffy MO24 (by AI)
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There is demand for an index that can be used to rank bulls according to their green credentials to help producers highlight the huge improvements being made in the sustainability of the British beef industry, as well as continue to breed more efficient cattle. We are aiming to produce an index that will value breeding animals according to the carbon footprint of the beef produced from their offspring in a typical British suckler system. Words by Harriet Bunning AHDB, Lead Animal Genetics Expert AHDB’s National Beef Evaluations (NBE) are in a unique position to do this: We use national data from BCMS and a national network of abattoirs, so results are applicable nationally, including pedigree, nonpedigree and crossbred herds. Because we used crossbred data, we can compare animals of different breeds. We use data from impartial
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GreenBeef Index and Cow Weight Traits
Direction of selection to improve beef carbon footprint
In NBE?
Carcase Weight
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Days to Slaughter
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Age at First Calving
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Productive Lifespan
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Calf Survival
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Cow weight
Missing
sources that don’t require performance testing from breeders. We already publish EBVs for most traits which have an important impact on the green credentials of the farm. As highlighted above, the key trait we are missing is cow weight. This trait is important when considering emissions from a suckler system, because although big cows are more likely to produce faster growing calves, they also contribute more to emissions, both directly through enteric methane emissions, but also through emissions produced in the production of their feed. Therefore we want our index to balance the selection for increased calf growth rates with selection for reduced mature cow weight. Cow weight evaluations do already occur within most beef breed societies using Breedplan performance testing and evaluations. However these EBVs can not easily be combined with NBE EBVs as each breed will have
a different base population to which each animal is compared. Therefore we would like to begin evaluating cow weight within NBE. We plan to use cull cow carcase weights and EUROP grades collected within our carcase database from abattoirs across the UK, to estimate the liveweights of these cows. To do this, we need some real liveweights to compare to our carcase data. This is where you come in. We are asking you to share with us any cow live weight data you already have. This could be recent or historic data and should include as a minimum, cow ID (eartag or herdbook number), weight and date of weighing. We will then join this with BCMS data to account for factors such as age at weighing and whether it was recorded at calf weaning or not. If you are able to share this data with us, or have any further questions about this work or the National Beef Evaluations, please contact harriet.bunning@ahdb.org.uk.
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Ask the Vet Nick Gibbon, Belmont Vets, Hereford
With offices in Hereford, Bromyard, and Ledbury, servicing a variety of agricultural enterprises, Belmont vets have been pivotal supporting farmers with their animal health since 1919. For those of you who have sold as society sales you may be familiar with Nick Gibbon. Joining Belmont in 2013, Nick previously worked in West Wales and Cheshire, and holds a keen interest in ruminant systems, looking to assist clients in creating a sustainable business supported through high animal health and performance - he’s a great partner to have at our sales! Performing the presale checks, Nick covers all aspects from teeth to testicles and helps to uphold the quality of stock the sales are renowned for. Nick may be a familiar face to those who have sold animals at the society show and sales, whilst he undertakes the pre-sale examinations.
We catch up with Nick to chat about a few commonly asked questions. Jumping straight in, methods change throughout the years. What is your current advice with castration? Interesting question! Males can be castrated by a vet at any age under local anaesthesia and pain relief but as the beast gets older; the risk of blood loss and potential complications increases steadily and the negative impact upon the animal in terms of pain and welfare becomes more pronounced. There is very little evidence that animals fattened slowly on forage based systems (24 months +) benefit from being kept entire from any age over 7 days old and similarly limited evidence that steers fattened faster benefit.
In most instances the older that beasts are castrated, the further it knocks them back and the cost of castrating bulls as they get older increases, making the economic argument for it weak. With these things in mind; In a pedigree setting, some bull calves will exclude themselves from selection at birth due to various traits and genetics and these calves are best rung as soon as possible. Calves that are left entire should then be assessed at 100 day weight and possibly castrated at this point if they don’t make the grade while they are still with their dams. Anything that is left entire beyond this that doesn’t hit breeding bull quality could be castrated provided the facilities are good at 8 to 10 months of age, ideally while still on the cow and away from the point of weaning to minimise stress. When would you recommend dehorning cattle and what is the best method? Do you have any tips for those who decide not to dehorn their cattle? Similar to castration, the older the animal, the more potential pain and complications we expose them to by undertaking procedures later in life. Disbudding, performed well with local anaesthetic
117 Are there ways to help setting up an animal for a productive future? A lot of evidence for beef cattle starts at the point of birth with colostrum. The Suckler cow should have a reasonable volume of high-quality colostrum available to her calf at point of calving and the calf should be able to suckle quickly after birth to get maximum benefit. This will be impacted upon through nutrition, adequate udder conformation, calving ease, mineral provision and various other factors. Poor colostrum status of your calves will reveal itself in the form of poor neonatal calf health but if you want to evaluate it calves can be bled before 7 days of age. Rumen development in calves is determined by exposure to high quality feed stuffs like grass and concentrates, not roughage. In suckled calves this development takes 5-6 months and good rumen development will allow the calf to transition smoothly from milk to grass over the next few months pre-weaning and go on to thrive. With calf health information improving and a strong focus on improving mortality - What are you tops tips for success in the first 48 hours of life? a. Have your cows scanned as early as possible (August/September) to help group and feed cows by calving date. b. Minimise calving difficulties by taking nutritional advice and understanding calving ease EBVs. Part of this is also knowing when to call for help if it goes wrong.
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and pain relief, while the calf is with their dam is the least stressful time to remove an animal’s horns and offers us the best way to manage horned cattle for our and their safety. Dehorning later in life, has a bigger impact and can result in blood loss and will be painful. Plenty of herds have horned cattle and run harmoniously (with some specialist handling facilities) so removal of horns isn’t essential. However, if you don’t dehorn cattle then the whole herd must be treated the same to avoid bullying and handling facilities must be more than adequate, and choice of abattoir must be considered. In the USA they have removed the horned gene from some Holstein bulls – making their offspring polled without the need to seek out individuals with polled genetics. We may have gene-deleted horned Herefords in the future…that would create some discussion!
c. Ensure all cows are adequately mineralised for iodine and selenium. d. Keep a clean and dry calving environment. e. Ensure colostrum feeding practices are good and that cows have adequate udders underneath them. f. Ensure colostrum quality is good this is driven by nutritional status. Even small herds will benefit from an annual pre-calving visit with a review of forages on farm through silage analysis. Herefords are incredibly cheap to keep and require very little maintenance feed but are often managed at 0.5 to 1 body condition score over where they should be – feed them less or keep more cows! With website such as sellmylivestock and off-farm sales on the rise, not allowing the protection a society sale offers, what would you advise our members look for regarding the animal’s health before purchase? If you have invested in herd health status of any kind then purchase of animals off-farm must be coupled with evidence of health status from the seller. This could be in the form of their certification from a CHECS accredited scheme or at the very least individual animal health status which you should request. On the day of the sale, we are looking for certain things that would be undesirable to purchase and in some cases could easily be missed. Therefore, if you are buying direct from seller you must visit to check the animal over thoroughly with the awareness that financial guarantees in these instances are often only verbal agreements and leave you open in the event of an issue coming with the animal.
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Line 1 Herefords, a lasting impression Ninety years ago, back in 1934, the American Department of Agriculture commenced a breeding project. Researched by Laura Bowyer and Clive Davies It was established at Fort Keogh, Miles City, Montana, the aim of which was to develop and monitor commercially practical cattle taking into account uniformity, efficient performance and especially yearling growth weight. It was much inspired by the work done in developing hybrid maize options in the early 1930’s. Fourteen different lines of breeding were constructed all centred around close breeding programmes. Some developed better than others, however, since the mid seventies only one has survived, a strain of bovine known as Line 1 Herefords. The detail of their existence is fascinating, their output predictable and the part played in developing modern day principles and science, significant. Within livestock breeding many practitioners are nervous of inbreeding projects but when devised successfully they are undoubtedly leading enterprises. There is no doubt that if inferior genetic mixes are perpetuated, disaster can occur but when positive genes are concentrated, nothing can touch them for reliability. After all, inbreeding was how breeds were developed in the first place, thus developing different types and characteristics, just like Robert Bakewell would have advocated back in the mid 1700’s. The work of Line 1 Herefords was also the forerunner of more recent projects such as developing what are now termed as composite strains of farmed animals. Many
Advance Domino 20, a son of Advance Domino 13, from whom all Line 1 Hereford cattle descend. of these so formed undertakings are presently constructed and mapped using computer generated plans. The hand written arithmetic behind Line 1 would be very similar to the results of 21st Century calculations. The female breeders acquired to start the project were made up by taking fifty cows from George Miles of Miles City, Montana. To mate with them two half-brothers, Advance Domino 20 (2035127) and Advance Domino 54 (2120894) were selected from the herd of Fred DeBerard of Kremmling, Colorado. They were both sons of Advance Domino 13, a great grandson of the celebrated cornerstone of American Herefords, Prince Domino. This most famous sire was five generations removed, through his tail-male line from Don Carlos, a result of the mating of Anxiety IV and Dowager 6th both exported from the Leominster area of Herefordshire in the early 1880’s. Prince Domino was line-bred. He contained seven crosses of Anxiety IV and Dowager 6th. This foundation cow herd, sired by Colonel Perfection, being six generations removed from Don Carlos via the male tail line but unusually for American Hereford lines of today, not tracing through
Prince Domino, was split between these two young sires and the subsequent heifer calves eventually mated to the alternative sire followed by further criss-cross breeding to develop the strain. Over the first 18 generations and beyond an inbreeding relationship of up to 39% of the founding sire has generally been maintained. If breeding is carried out without any common ancestry among components, over that sort of period the relationship would be more like one one-thousandth of a percent. These founding animals would not necessarily be considered highly fashionable when compared with the top exhibition winners of that time but might be described as more like ‘range livestock’ in type. By the mid 1940’s the stock was being made available to outside breeders to enhance wider breeding programmes, both of pedigree and commercial outfits. They soon began to develop a strong following. In addition to the practical abilities of the cattle, relatively low birth weights, ease of calving, adequate growth to the yearling stage, uniform production, and sound construction, they also proved to be highly significant in
119 Line 1 Herefords had a very major influence in the development of American Herefords. Most herds would contain its breeding. By around 2000, probably two-thirds of the Herefords registered in the United States would contain Line 1 bloodlines. The genetics also travelled overseas to all major beef producing countries. The first sire to reach the shores of the UK and Ireland during the mid-1980’s that contained a strong percentage of Line 1 breeding would have been BB Domino 1087 bred by Bill Bennett of Connell, Washington. Semen from this bull soon influenced the herds in which used to produce top show yard winners and successful breeders. By the late 1980’s PDHR Pacesetter 25S had been selected, a son of L1 Pacesetter. The semen used from this bull bred by Poplar Dell Hereford Ranch, of Edam, Saskatchewan, further gave breeders the opportunity of experiencing the positive traits of Line 1 breeding, growth, milk, and performance. Again, many successes were achieved at exhibitions but also a positive input to Hereford Breed development. Amongst early users of these genetics were the Douglas family of Stranrear, Scotland. Their home-bred 25S son, Ervie Flashy produced Ervie King Kong that was Male Champion at The Royal Highland Show and set forth a run of five or six generations that produced leading show winners
and successful breeders over the following twenty-five years or so. This is most probably the greatest run of success through a male tail line in modern times. A bull carrying a high proportion of Line 1 breeding arrived in Ireland. CH 3223 Visa 57X ET, from Cutler Herefords, Lacombe, Alberta and sired by the impressive C L1Express 3223 ET, another successful son of L1 Pacesetter, made an impact within the Emerald Isle before featuring in several top UK herds through the importation of semen or live progeny. Again, many significant cattle and top winners became commonplace. These are just a few examples of the influence that Line 1 Herefords have made. More recently, several breeders, having viewed the cattle on ranches in America through the enterprises of the Cooper and Holden families, both of Montana and Beran & Dolecheck of Kansas, for instance, and have introduced their genetics. Good numbers of imported embryos from outfits such as these have enabled modern, straight Line 1 genetics to play a part in developing the breed around the home patch. Undoubtedly, the UK herd has much benefited from the scope that the breeding behind this strain of Hereford has created what with them being genetically closed longer than any other identified line of beef cattle. The Line 1 Herefords has been a full horned genetic project from
the outset and continues to be so. However, they have also influenced Poll Hereford breeding all around the World. A highly celebrated UK bred Poll Hereford bull was Barwise 1 Wellington, from the herd of Carolyn Fletcher in Cumbria, he being the result of an imported embryo from Argentina. His sire’s dam was a great-grand-daughter of the famed L1 Pacesetter through her male tail line. However, very interestingly the sire of Wellington is also a result of a planned and highly organised male tail line: Prospector. This was derived through the SJBRC inbreeding project developed at Fort Lewis, Durango, Colorado. Its challenge wasn’t so much connected with better method or performance but quite clearly to investigate a major problem. Through following fashion and taking things to the extreme, by the early 1940’s many American beef cattle were becoming compressed, thick set and small. Arising from this through using very close breeding lines to attain what was considered desirable, and with all the popular breeds of the time implicated, the scourge of dwarfism spread. This dilemma could result in no production whatsoever. In 1946 the American Hereford Association made available a grant of $25000 and instructed Dr H H Stonaker to lead a team to investigate the problem with the aim of developing a better understanding of the situation and finding suitable solutions.
Advance Domino 54, a son of Advance Domino 13, from whom all Line 1 Hereford cattle descend.
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developing better understandings of bovine science. Early data from the project contributed to the first estimates of heritability and genetic correlation for beef cattle. Undoubtedly, performance recording owes a great deal to the development of this project, adopting from the experiences the length of feeding time required for meaningful data collection, the best numbers to be managed for reliable collation of a data set and the importance of the dam’s milking ability on the growth of her calf. Also, it allowed the start of the establishment of a widely used genomic library and it was a Line 1 cow that was the foundation of the bovine genomic sequence.
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About a couple of dozen different Hereford breeding projects, both horned and polled, each being given a name were developed at the station between 1946 and the mid 1980’s but many failed and often very quickly. Within a few generations they broke-down because dwarfism appeared, or the productivity was extremely poor. However, some did succeed and have spread into successful and wider breeding programmes. One was known as Tarrington and was founded on British bloodlines. Six cows were selected from the Wyoming Hereford Ranch at Laramie. They were all born in 1952 being daughters of Tarrington Onward (78832). He was imported from the UK following his purchase at HHBS March Show and Sale for 460gns in 1948 being from the first rear of the celebrated, Tarrington March On and from Queen Mab, a daughter of the great Tarrington Broadside, she one of Harry Griffiths’s favourite and most successful breeders. Also, by March On she produced, Move On, used successfully at Little Tarrington and his maternal half-sister was Queen Bess who appears in the pedigrees of many famed cattle bred since those times. The six Onward daughters were mated back to their sire over two successive breeding seasons and from the progeny the strain developed into a close breeding programme building up into an average inbreeding percentage of around 36%. The Prospector line commenced with the selection of six cows of Prince Domino breeding, cows that were already part of the Fort Lewis operation. The chosen foundation sire was Bonvue Prince 17, sired by Comprest Prince 3. He was mated to the nucleus and then to his own daughters. Subsequently, two widely used sires in this project were full brothers, Prospector 300, in the male tail line of Barwise 1 Wellington, and Prospector 2010, both being sired by Bonvue Prince 17 and out of Blanca Lewis 4, his own daughter. The tribe has built into an average inbreeding figure of
This Line 1 Hereford bull (99375) is the sire of the cow upon whose DNA the bovine genome sequence is based. 39%. An additional number of successful breeding projects have more recently been developed incorporating these two lines detailed and other betterperforming examples from the overall programme. Conclusions gleaned from the various projects would not have been clear-cut but one certain feature to emerge was that dwarfism or any other sort of negative issue was not necessarily the result of a high degree of inbreeding but more connected with the traits and recessive genes that the various breeding animals contained. Poor performance and irregularities could be present in breeding projects with an inbreeding percentage of, say 20%, but those with inbreeding of 35 to 40% could often be deemed successful. Many American breeders made their own moves to continue in business in avoiding dwarfism by importing overseas breeding stock including and mainly from the UK and by selecting Line 1 Herefords that were never affected by this dreaded condition nor indeed more
Barwise 1 Wellington (P) ET (Imp ARG)
recently, the presence of epilepsy. In all probability the people that established Line 1 Herefords, as we now approach the centenary of their establishment, had no ambition to expect their work to so greatly influence and benefit the Worldwide cattle industry. However, by virtue of getting things right, they have certainly done that, whether considered for economic terminal sire activity or equally through maternal value. It was clearly chance that the originally chosen genetics were made available but undoubtedly that is often the case with living, breathing projects that involve the natural world. It is this that makes stock breeding the great challenge that it is and especially pedigree projects that must work within effectively tight parameters. To any would-be breeder of farmed livestock, whether or not they were to choose Herefords, cattle more generally or even another species, they would do well to consider the work, example and experiences that has given us the practical, successful and unequalled Line 1 Herefords.
REGISTERED BULLS & FEMALES FOR SALE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR Visitors always welcome “Looking forward to 2024”
Current herd sires: Porton House 1 Wingman, Hoghton View 1 Jack Daniels, Free Town 1 William We have numbers of yearling, calved & in calf heifers as well as cows for sale this year
MARCUS & DAVID LURY
Castle Farm, Buckland St. Mary, Chard, Somerset. TA20 3JX Tel: 01460 234394 Email: marcus@lury.co.uk Web: www.lury.co.uk Many thanks to all our many customers old and new – we look forward to seeing you in 2024
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OAKLEAF(H) & CASTLEWOOD(P) HEREFORDS
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Happy Herefords educate next generation Thirty children aged from 5-11 attended a week of events run by Tysoe Wildlife around the village of Tysoe, Warwickshire, to take a closer look at the farming activities that contribute to supplying the raw ingredients to make their favourite meals. Monday saw a visit to see sheep with farmer Brian, the children heard about the lifecycle of the animals and what they are called at different stages of life, how a ram is also called a ‘tup’; how the farmers work to keep them healthy with vaccinations, much like the children receive in schools and how he helps the ewes with lambing in spring. On Tuesday the topic turned to soil and the wonder of worms. The children added water to loam, clay, and sandy soils to see how they separated into different strata. They discovered how the nutrients in the soil help plants to grow and made cress heads to take home with them. Next in the week, the headed to an arable farm and partook in a bread making demonstration from Sarah, a local artisan baker, who came second in Britain’s Best Bread Competition in April. The children were able to experience the process from grain to mill to flour and then into bread, finishing off
with a taste test. Thursday the children engaged with chickens and ducks in the churchyard with Anthony from Cotswold Chickens. He explained all about the birds, showing the children the correct way to hold the birds and how to test the freshness of the eggs by watching them float or sink in water. Friday, the last morning, was held at Happy Herefords Farm, with farmers Monica and Helen. Helen had organised a range of activities including a science experiment to replicate the digestive system of a cow and it’s four stomach pouches. The morning started with a safety briefing, making the children aware of the dangers of farm machinery and other hazards like chemicals. The children were told not to climb on bales or frighten animals by shouting. Once briefed, the different groups set about the various activities: one group heading off to see the cattle in the field and feed the bullocks kept in the barn, another getting involved in the experiment, while the third group made crows and hung them
around a scarecrow propped against hay bales. Feeding the bullocks proved a highlight for the children, loading up the trolley and taking it in turn to pull it along. They were intrigued to learn about the pecking order at the feeding trough with bigger animals taking their fill first and the littlest being the last to feed. The children got to smell and touch the silage. Many not knowing what silage was. Helen told them about how they remove the horns from their Hereford cattle, which makes them easier to handle and ensures that they cause less damage to one another. Helen also told the children that the cows only sleep for about four hours, for the rest of the day they may be sitting down but chewing cud. The visit continued to the maternity barn where the cattle give birth and can be checked easily. The children learnt the correct terminology i.e. heifers – a cow that has yet to have a calf, and what to do if cattle run towards you in a field. They heard about TB
123 Of course, the tractor proved a major attraction and an excellent backdrop for some group photos. The morning finished with a treasure hunt around the farm based on the fun facts they’d learnt throughout the week. Having worked up an appetite everyone headed back to the barn to taste some roast beef, cooked, and served by Helen as well as sharing a picnic with their parents. Throughout the week St. Marys church hosted the events, to conclude a service was held on the Sunday were a few children spoke about what they enjoyed most within the week. For further information contact Shirley Cherry, Tysoe Wildlife, email: tysoewildlife@gmail.com,
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testing and vets visiting and the fact that the cattle are killed for their meat with the carcasses hung up to dry before being turned into burgers and other joints.
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Member of the Month A dedicated organisation crafted for young Hereford enthusiasts aged between 10 and 26, UK Hereford Youth opens doors to a world of opportunities. Joining means making new friends, expanding knowledge on the Hereford breed, acquiring new skills—all while having a great time. Come be a part of the adventure!
January
June
Maddie Clarke
Finlay Soutter
What do you like about Herefords? Herefords are a breed that have been in my family for years. Nothing beats the temperament of the Hereford. They are just so quiet.
I work for Normanton Herefords, consisting of about 60 pedigree breeding cows in Leicestershire.
What is your job? I am a Breeding Advisor & Beef Specialist at UK Sires. My job involves assisting farmers with their breeding programs on farm, helping them get the best potential out of their cows and looking at areas of improvements within their herd to make their cows more profitable, increasing lactations/ longevity. I also head up the beef procurement for UK Sires, looking to get bulls on stud or semen collected on farm.
February Eifrion James Do you have any Herefords? I have my own herd of pedigree Herefords, I was given a cow and heifer for my 3rd birthday, and that was the start of Cleddau Herefords! I now have a head of 55 animals. I chose Cleddau as a prefix as the river Cleddau runs through Pembrokeshire and the Cleddau links both my family farms. Why did you choose this breed? I love my Herefords as they are gentle animals and quiet for me to handle.
March Grace Denning Do you farm any livestock? We keep 100 head of Aberdeen Angus cattle and have been breeding them since I was born. I hope to start up a Hereford herd in the future which I have admired for many years since starting the UK Hereford Youth . Alongside the cattle I have my own flock of Blue Texel sheep that I started in 2019 with the money from my commercial show heifer, Now the flock runs at about 40. Recently I established my Southdown flock which I look forward to see how they do.
April Will Awan
Do you have Herefords?
Why do you like Herefords?
I like the Hereford breed as they're known for there docility and easy management, which makes working with them more enjoyable as opposed to other breeds. I also think they have a lot of potential for the future, so playing a part in promoting the breed and seeing them improve over time is great for a native breed.
July Matt Rollason What is you current occupation? Dunbia Agriculture Manager Are you from a farming background? Not originally. However in 2021 we bought a smallholding and started breeding polled Herefords. Do you have any personal successes you wish to share? I have been awarded several scholarships enabling me to travel the world and expand my knowledge of global agriculture and different cultures. Travel opportunities have undoubtedly improved my personal and professional development, which I owe to the generosity of my sponsors.
August Tia Moyle Do you have Herefords?
Yes! We have 60+ Herefords and also have a group of 7 flekvieh cows which we use for embryo work.Our prefix is Porton House Herefords. Why do you like Herefords? The reason I like Herefords is that I love how they have a very calm and docile nature. If you could have a superpower what would it be? If I had superpowers I would want the ability to read minds therefore I would be able to read the judges minds.
October
Are you from a farming background?
Cara Doggett
No, my dad is a dentist and my mum is a doctor. My
Originally from Wellsford, North Island, New Zealand. I came over to the UK last June for a Beef Shorthorn conference and liked it so much I decided to stay. Obtaining my work visa has allowed me the opportunity to work and live here for 5 years. I have a keen passion for genetics and currently work for UK Sires
passion started young, mainly with breeding chickens in the garden. I got two cows for my 8th birthday and it grew from there. When I was 14 I got offered a business partnership with local farmer Bob and we started breeding Herefords. Now it is my whole world and has become a huge part of my families life too. I would not have managed any of it without them, especially my dad..
May Mia Shaw Do you have Herefords? Yes, my parents own a large number of Pedigree Hereford Cattle and a few Hereford crosses. The prefix is Thornysure. Why do you like Herefords?
I love Herefords because most are really friendly and are nice to be around. Another reason I really like them, is their colour I like that their not completely red or not completely white that it is a white head and red body and sometimes their legs are a bit white too.
Since living here I have purcahsed one Hereford, Coley 1 Mink! She’s an absolute sweetheart. We've been showing this summer and had some success. I have started a Hereford herd over here called Maxwell. Back in New Zealand I have my own Beef Shorthorn herd called Ceejay which comprises of 30 registered stock, 16 being breeding females. I love my Shorthorns and Mink so much.
November Sid Shaw What do you like to spend your pocket money on? I bought my first heifer Peggy to start my own
herd. She is very quiet and calm. This summer I took her to 4 shows and I'm hoping to take her to the Christmas Calf Show in December at Shrewsbury. I did quite well in the Young Handlers classes with her and she came 3rd at Hanbury in her class. Because I got Peggy, I now have my own herd prefix S.A.S. Herefords. I'm currently saving to buy some more showing equipment, before saving for another heifer.
Would you like to nominate someone to be featured? Or maybe be featured yourself? Contact UKHerefordYouth on 07772 495913 or email ukherefordyouth@herefordcattle.org.
125 The annual UKHY workshop took place in April, hosted by Simon and Gemma Hartwright of Spartan Herefords. Stockman Luke Murphy halter trained cattle, and a generous lunch was provided.
Dates for next year The annual workshop supported by Scottish Hereford Breeders Association will be held 4th-5th May by kind invitation of Jimmy Hodge and family, Fellowhills Herefords. An exciting and educational day is planned for the Saturday with lunch provided. Sunday will see a farm visit. Further details will be available early next year. Intermediates and seniors are invited to attend a two day event on the 9th and 10th August. The itinerary will include an in depth visit to the Dunbia plant at Sawley, followed by an evening of social activities. Saturday will see our members working in team building exercises. This event will contribute towards their America World Hereford Conference application.
Twenty seven young members turned up to learn skills on clipping, show ring grooming and leading for the show ring. Participants were split into age categories with the juniors starting on clipping activities, the intermediates learnt about grooming for the show ring and the seniors had an informative session with Clive Davies of the Westwood herd discussing traits of the breed and commercial elements. Attendees came from as far as Wales and Northern Ireland, Kent and Somerset. And they were rewarded with many prizes and networking opportunities. The juniors stole the show with their enthusiasm and put Emma, UKHY Coordinator through her paces! Many thanks go to trainers on the day Ryan Coates of RTC Herefords and WHC New Zealand 2020 representative, Joe Clarke, stockman of Rempstone Herefords and Clive Davies, all round oracle of the breed. Plus all the helpers, donations of raffle prizes, and of course Simon, Gemma and Luke, who without their help the day wouldn't have been possible.
Sophie's Show Success Sophie is a senior member and is no stranger to the show ring, she embraces it with such gusto that winning is fast becoming second nature, with many wins under her belt this season. The year started well with the annual trip to the Spring Show and Sale in April, where three heifers were up for grabs. All successfully finding new homes and Harveybros 1 Crocus Vanilla taking reserve female champion. Her other passion is breeding and showing Limousin cattle, which she has gained a respectable reputation for. Not being shy to hard work, Sophie spends her time split between breeding her own and assisting with ‘Team Nimmo’. The Limousin herd have had an excellent summer, scooping up some high accolades from Royal Highland and Great Yorkshire. Understandably, however, her biggest achievement this year, by her admission, is breeding Willy-the-Womaniser, her first own-bred bull. It's been a summer of many rosettes up and down the country, with the ultimate success story at the society Autumn show and sale where the bull became champion and went on to sell for 9000gns. Suffice it to say, Sophie’s year has been top-notch!
America World Hereford Conference 2025 The World Hereford Conference is fast approaching with details slowly emerging from the American Hereford Association. Each country has been invited to enter a youth team to compete, representing their country. Over the course of 2024, applications will be open for any UKHY member aged 18 – 30 to submit a written application and attend organised events to demonstrate their ability, skill and commitment to earn their place on that team. More details will be released in due course. Photographed 2022 New Zealand team, Matthew Rollason, Ryan Coates, James Ludgate and Sophie Harvey
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Spartan Herefords host Spring Workshop
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Ellis Parry, “the best decision I have made”
Graduation celebrations for Will, Isla and Ellis Graduation celebrations for Will, Isla and Ellis Undertaking a university course requires stamina, determination, passion and commitment. This did not deter members Will Awan, Isla Soutter and Ellis Parry who attended Harper Adams in Shropshire. Here they tell us a bit about their course and future plans.
Hereford pair impressed Radio 2 DJ
Ellis Parry is 22 years old and has grown up on the family beef and sheep farm in Monmouthshire, South Wales. His teenage years were filled with young farmers activities alongside school. Providing a firm foundation, following college Ellis went on to study at Harper Adams University. Studying Agriculture with Farm Business Management, Ellis completed his placement year
UK Hereford Youth
Sara Cox, radio 2 presenter cast a watchful eye over this year’s interbreed young handler competition held at The Royal Welsh Show. Assisted by her father, and long standing Hereford breeder, Len Cox, the duo spent time assessing all teams presenting their cattle.
The Hereford Breed were represented by three teams consisting of Grace Denning and Finlay Soutter, Ethan Brook and Will Awan, and Cara Doggett and Ollie Garnett-Smith. Each team colour coordinated their ties, shone their boots and spruced cattle to impress the judges. There were thirteen teams in total, across both native and continental breeds, with the Herefords having the highest amount of teams entered. Each member displayed their animal to a professional standard, with Cara and Ollie taking the overall championship. This pair were feeling the pressure as in 2022 they were reserve champions so were determined to take the top spot.
Further success in the week saw a total of seven members take to the ring competing in the young handler competitions, all being placed securing a rosette. Finlay Soutter in the intermediate section won overall championship with Ethan Brook taking reserve champion.
within the sales team at Amazone Ltd. This experience alongside the business modules back at campus helped him to pick off the other applicants when applying for his current position post-graduation. Now providing sales support for SIP, a Slovenian machinery manufacturer new to the UK, Ellis can call upon his toolbox of skills acquired throughout his education alongside placement to work as an instrumental player in establishing the products with the British market. ‘I am thoroughly enjoying being a part of a new start-up company and growing with it’. Ellis continued, ‘Since graduating in September I am still wondering how the last four years have disappeared, I can only sum it up as the best decision I have made. The opportunities and experiences provided during my time there have been second to none.' Establishing his herd in 2015, following the purchase of four heifers at the spring society sale, Ellis spent the following four years increasing numbers. In 2019, he reduced the herd to place focus on his studies. Now in full-time employment, he plans to keep his herd at a manageable size. Despite focusing on his career, Ellis still manages to find time to support his local show, donning his white show jacket and enjoying the animals within his herd.
127 “If you’re contemplating studying at Harper, I strongly encourage you to take the leap.” This year Isla Soutter completed the BSc Hons degree in Agriculture with Animal science. Her journey at Harper Adams has been ‘ truly amazing ‘ Isla says that applying to Harper was one of the best decisions she made, with learning so much, meeting lifelong friends and gaining valuable experiences, it has opened a door full of opportunities. Graduating was a special day, marking the achievement of all the hard work put in over the years and it was great to celebrate with friends and family. Isla encourages anyone considering university life these words ‘If you’re contemplating studying at Harper, I strongly encourage you to take the leap. You’ll not only gain knowledge and skills for the future, but also create unforgettable memories – and countless opportunities’ Isla spent her placement year as a Progressive Young Farmer through the McDonalds programme. This is a year’s rotational programme spent with one of their suppliers: The lakes free range egg company based up in Cumbria. It was a great opportunity that led her through various functions of the business from farm to for. Time was spent out on farm, spending time in the hatchery, rearing farms and laying farms. Then moved into the factory/ packing centre to work
Will Awan
“A high is seeing our animals perform for buyers.” Will Awan undertook the BSc Agriculture with Animal Science ‘I would recommend the institution for anyone wanting a career in agriculture. It has become the epicentre of British Agriculture and the course, placements there are so relevant to a future career’. To complete the course Will had to complete a work placement and spent it at McDonalds. He was placed with Arla Foods, where he spent 3 months working on farm and then 9 months in the Arla Customer Agriculture Team, working between farmers and retailers on several strategies and retailer aligned projects. Connecting retailers and foodservice companies to their milk, and the farmers that produce it. In McDonalds he followed the supply chain from farm, through processing and into restaurants across multiple foodstuffs such as pork, beef, dairy and potatoes. This spanned across the UK and Ireland. ‘Seeing the variation in dairy and beef systems and processing sites was a highlight for me’ Will said
alongside the QA team and understand the protocols involved. After understanding the processes involved before the final product gets to the end destination, Isla spent some time working in the restaurant, preparing, and serving these items just before spending time down in the head office in London. The year was a brilliant one that provided lots of opportunities and a brilliant way to fully understanding the whole farm to fork process. Being shortlisted for both the Farmers Weekly and British farming Awards Agricultural Student of the Year was a great accolade for Isla. An experience that significantly expanded her knowledge and awareness, inspiring her to continually push herself to the limits. Additionally, being announced as the Silver Award winner for the British Farming Awards Agricultural Student of the Year was a great honour, well done! Isla is now currently in a graduate position with ABP Food Group, working alongside their agriculture team to aim to produce and deliver high quality beef that is sustainably grown. The graduate programme is a 2-year rotational programme aimed to oversee the Ag team from blade farming, rearing, and finishing to working alongside the livestock team. Her rotation began working within the blade farming team based in the Southwest on their Gamechanger scheme for supplying Sainsburys taste the difference range. The scheme provides farmers with greater security and stability, embracing Aberdeen angus genetics and delivering traceable, transparent British beef with reduced environmental impacts. Her role within the team has began on the calf rearing side by providing support to farmers to maximise calf growth and performance whilst minimise health challenges. ‘I have learnt so much in my first months of working with the company and am looking forward to deeper involvement in the company and industry, working towards achieving significant targets’ Agri Expo this year with a homebred heifer. They’ve sold several animals at auction for over 5,000gns in the last few years and this year a bull was sold into an AI centre in Ireland. As a result of their successes the business is making a profit which is very hard to do on such a small suckler unit on rented land. Currently Will is working as a Breeding Advisor for Genus in Somerset, working with farmers to aid the genetic progress of their herd of cows. He helps with choosing sires, deciding matings and most importantly deciding which females to not breed replacements from. In his role he also works with dairy farmers to maximise the value and quality of their beef calves from their dairy cows, whilst maintaining calving ease, short gestation and survivability.
Will tells us about highs and lows from across the year. ‘Highs for me would be the successes we have had in the show & sale ring and seeing as well as seeing our animals perform for their buyers and us. Watching heifers we have bred enter our herd and becoming fertile, milky, strong animals is very rewarding. The lows would always be the losses, we have had a few calves over the years that have shown a lot of promise, this is part of the job and you have to move on but it is always very disappointing and demoralising nonetheless’ When asked what his greatest achievement in life is he replied by saying starting his herd of Pedigree Herefords, at the age of 14. He went into a partnership with a neighbour, Bob, to setup the herd. Now they have a strong herd of 17 pedigree polled cows, the herd has so far been quite successful. The showing highlight to date would be winning Reserve Breed Champion at
Interested in becoming a UK Hereford Youth Member? Visit herefordcattle.org/uk-hereford-youth
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Isla Soutter,
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Lessons from Austrialia Hereford Youth member, Matt Rollason shares his learnings from the otherside of the globe and how he brought back more than souvenirs. Working as an Agriculture Manager for meat processor Dunbia, and Hereford enthusiast in my spare time, means that life pretty much revolves around the beef industry. Back in 2017, I had the chance to work for the Syke’s family and their globally successful Mawarra Hereford stud in Victora, Australia. My three months at Mawarra were incredibly insightful and indeed, life changing for my personal and professional development. But since then, I have been keen to return to Australia, to gain a better understanding of the genetic drivers that influence beef production at a wider industry level. When asked “Why Australia?”, there is no doubt in my mind that they are a world-leader in beef production. This is borne out of little reliance on state support, and instead a highly market-focussed approach that I believe the UK industry can learn from. With the backing of Dunbia, I set about planning a study tour for January 2024, and was fortunate enough to be awarded funding from The Farmers Club and The Worshipful Company of Farmers to support my travel costs. After landing in Melbourne, I embarked on a three-week journey that would take me thousands of kilometres across the states of Victoria, Western Australia and New South Wales. The expanse of a country that is approximately 32 times the size of the United Kingdom, was mind blowing, and I saw first hand how cattle production is driven by varying regional climates and the pressure this puts on trait selection and profitability. Having visited over 30 studs with numerous breeds, I came away convinced that among the most successful were those adopting clear business strategies to their operations. Many of these businesses were highly sensitive to the needs of their market and used a range of data, phenotypic and collaborative tools to achieve their goals. “I also plan to use Despite being highly this knowledge in the competitive, I could see that data collaboration development of my own has become far more herd, by designing a commonplace across the sector, in a clear, breeding strategy that combined effort carefully considers the for everyone to become commercially relevant more environmentally and economically traits of the future UK sustainable.
beef industry.”
On reflection, my study tour has given me an entirely new perspective and even deeper respect of this great country, its people and its cattle. It showed me how the stud industry in Australia is changing to become more data-orientated, collaborative and responsive to the market signals of commercial feedlots, processors, retailers and consumers. Given the environmental, political and economic pressures producers face around the world, the importance of working towards a common goal cannot be understated. I look forward to discussing these findings with fellow UK Hereford breeders, with the ultimate aim of promoting collaboration and data sharing throughout the supply chain. I also plan to use this knowledge in the development of my own herd, by designing a breeding strategy that carefully considers the commercially relevant traits of the future UK beef industry. I would like to thank the generous support of my sponsors, family, friends and colleagues for this wonderful travel opportunity, and would encourage other young breeders to fully embrace similar opportunities when they arise. Anyone wishing to read my full report “Genetic Drivers in the Australian Beef Industry” is most welcome to contact me via email; matthew_rollason96@outlook.com
Past From our fi rst Champion in 1958 Neptune...
Present
Wolf, our 15th Royal Ulster Balmoral Show
our most ...to
recent in 2023 Wolf...
Champion
Future ...Amber A2, Senior Female Champion N.I. Calf Show
60+ ‘B’ calves due: Sired by Promoter, Humberto, Top Prize, Worldwide & The Wonderer 2023 has been our best year for exports with embryos and semen as well as 24 cattle leaving Northern Ireland, 13 of which headed to France. 34 Bulls sold in 2023 for breeding
Thank you to all our customers and friends in the breed over the past 70 years. Hopefully the next 70 will be just as enjoyable and bring as much success!
Clubs & Associations 130
● Hereford Breeders Association (West Midlands) ● Midlands and East Anglia Hereford Breeders’ Association ● National Hereford Club ● North of England Hereford Breeders Association ● Northern Ireland Hereford Breeders Assocation ● North Wales Hereford Club ● Dyfed Hereford Breeders’ Club ● Powys Hereford Breeders’ Club ● Scottish Hereford Breeders’ Association ● South of England Hereford Breeders Association ● South West Hereford Association ● Traditional Hereford Breeders’ Club
Clubs & Associations
Within this section
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Clubs & Associations
Clubs and Associations Midlands & East Anglia Hereford Breeders' Association Peter Moyes, secretary 07767 353205 petermoyes@btinternet.com www.meahba.co.uk
Hereford Cattle Breeders' Association West Midlands Emma Davies, secretary 07944 519860 emmajadedavies@hotmail.co.uk
South of England Hereford Breeders' Association Nick Williams, secretary 07977 135624 sehbasecretary@gmail.com www.southofenglandherefords.co.uk
North of England Hereford Breeders' Association Phil Massey, secretary 07878 665309 nehbasecretary@gmail.com www.northernherefordcattle.com
National - Traditional Hereford Club Helen MacLeod, secretary 07780 642263 helenmac2@btconnect.com www.traditionalherefords.org
South Western Hereford Association Shelly Locket, secretary 07472 998868 shellylockett@icloud.com www.herefordsouthwest.com
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Sarah Cook, secretary 07771 333303 alcroftcattle@hotmail.co.uk www.nationalherefordclub.co.uk
Northern Ireland Hereford Breeders' Association Mark Moore, secretary 07966 876575 mark-moore@hotmail.co.uk www.herefordni.co.uk
Scottish Hereford Breeders' Association Margaret Galbraith, secretary 07706 237524 margaret.stewart123@btinternet.com
Dyfed Hereford Breeders' Club Liz Roderick, secretary 01792 390389 tombankfarm@aol.com www.welshherefords.co.uk
North Wales Hereford Breeders' Club Audrey Morgan, secretary 01745 833012 morganfardre@btconnect.com www.welshherefords.co.uk
Powys Hereford Breeders' Club Glen Pritchard, secretary 07903 021680 gpritcharf@gmail.com www.welshherefords.co.uk
Clubs & Associations
National - Hereford Club Horned & Dehorned
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Clubs & Associations
Hereford Cattle
Breeders’ Association The home of the Breed Herefordshire G Blandford & Son,'Bosa' (P) –
SW Quan & Co, 'Border' (H) –
R A Bradstock & Partners, 'Free Town' (H/P) – 01432890238 / 07734200508
M & M Roberts, 'Bromley' (P) –
07525426190
EC & MM Everall, 'Ashley Moor' (P) – 01568780266
APG Goodwin, 'Honeybrook' (H/P) – 01568720331
TJ & BM Goodwin (C Powell), 'Rough Moor' (P) – 01544327434 / 07867800788 S Hawkins, 'Bosbury' (P) – 01531640405 / 07813796053
L Hobson, 'Eldersfield' (P) – 01452840169
GCE Holborow, 'Rosemoor' (P) – 01886821226 / 07966130853
JW Lewis, 'Boycefield' (H) – 01544318946 / 07767863377
EL Lewis & Son, 'Haven' (H) – 01544318255 / 079747446
DJ Makin, 'Adzor' (H) – 01432830241 / 07961033283
Breeders’ Association
Club Information
J Pudge, 'Black Hall' (P) – 01432830361 / 07985078581
01531640209 / 07817707745
S Coates & I Coates, 'Parkapella' (P) –
Hereford Cattle
01981570231 / 07714291362 01981540717 / 07980834266
MR Barnett & Son, ' Pigeon House' (P) 07875525563
Hereford Cattle Breeders' Association herefordcattlebreeders @gmail.com
Secretary Emma Davies 07944 519860
DC Seabourne, 'Holme Lacy' (H/P) – 01432870808 / 07967208818
RG & MD Thomas, 'Risbury' (H) – 01568760443
G & R Watkin, 'Hollybush' (P) – 01584711323
WD Wiggin, 'Parliament' (P) – 02072198175
MF Gray & Miss L Crowther, 'Buckenhill' (P) - 01885483459 /
Worcestershire J Walker, 'Docklow/Hyde' (P/BP)– 01886 821892 / 07974307566
JR Whitlow, 'HighHouse' (H)–
07909793455
01386793880
S Greve-Jones, 'Longmoor' (H) -
Mrs. LR Hobson, 'Eldersfield' (P) -
07768714569
A & S Timbrell, 'Thames' (P) - 01285
07876 490194
770112 Mob:07889044070
Mr N & Mrs. L Holdsworth, 'Pebworth' (P) - 01789721972 / 07894074041
Vaughans Farms Ltd, 'Kingsland' (P) –
Shropshire
07977586140
RCG & EC Lywood, 'Heath House' (H) – 01547530149
P & E Williams, 'Alderoak' (P) – 01743741755 / 07843238039
W Milner Ltd, 'Callaughton' (P) 07816531845
Staffordshire C McCreath, 'Longridge' (H) – 01785715050 / 07866540127
The Farm, Bosbury, Ledbury, Herefordshire HR8 1NW
Office: T: 01531 640405 E: admin@thefarmbosbury.com Sarah Hawkins T: 078137 96053 E: sarah@thefarmbosbury.com
Hawkins Farming hawkins_farming
Office: T: 01531 640405 E: admin@thefarmbosbury.com Sarah Hawkins T: 078137 96053 E: sarah@thefarmbosbury.com
Hihealth Herdcare Cattle Health Scheme – Accredited Free of BVD & Risk Level 1 Johnes Disease. Stock bulls: Porton House 1 Tristar (left - purchased March 22) and Grifford 1 Try (Right - Purchased April 21).
We also welcome Pulham 1 Albus as a new stock bull (centre)
Young bulls and Heifers for sale. Visitors welcome
CLEMENT PEDIGREE HEREFORDS QUALITY, FRIENDLY, WELL HANDLED, HEREFORD CATTLE ALWAYS AVAILABLE
CLEMENT HARRY KAYNE UK226752 100436
OWEN SMITH FARMING Briar Cottage, School Lane, Bromeswell, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 2PX TEL: 01394 460408 MOB: 07885 594143 OR EMAIL: owensmithfarming@live.com
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Clubs & Associations
Hereford Cattle Breeders Association Another year has come and gone, it doesn’t seem 5 minutes since we were getting ready for the HCBA Christmas Calf Show in 2022 and somehow a whole 12 months has passed. As I write this, we have just finished unpacking the last box of paraphernalia from this year’s 2023 show! Winding the clock back to the start of the year, the first task to undertake for our association was the AGM which was held at The Talbot at Knightwick. The committee remained the same for this year where I was elected to carry on as Chairman, Colin Powell as Vice, Emma Davies as Secretary and Jenny Pudge as Treasurer. Gerald Blandford kindly continued as association President. A range of matters were discussed which helped us carve the way on how we wanted 2023 to look for the HCBA.
Roads and James Amplett of McCartneys after Clive judged our herd competition in 2022 the date and location was set for 5th May at Worcester Livestock Market. Organising the show and sale was a challenging but highly rewarding experience and it was fantastic to see club members embrace this new event with 12 vendors enter 34 lots for sale. Heifers averaged £1954.60 with Havenfield 1 Ruby making the top price of the day at 5000gns whilst bulls averaged £2457 with High House Wildtrak topping the bull trade at 3000gns. An enjoyable day was had at this new event, and we will look to build on this with a provisional date set for May 3rd 2024 for another show and sale. Thank you to all vendors and buyers at our inaugural sale as well as McCartneys for all their help and advice in getting the sale off the ground.
After much consideration the HCBA decided to try and expand what it offers its members and embarked on setting up a show and sale for herds from our area’s membership (Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Staffordshire and Shropshire). Working with Clive
Moving further into May, Hawkins Farming ran by HCBA member Sarah Hawkins of the Bosbury herd hosted us for a spring social. Sarah runs a diverse farming enterprise near Ledbury where in 2018 the Bosbury herd was set up as a continuation of her father
(Gerald Blandfords) Bosa herd. The farm also has arable cropping, cider apples and hops as well as environmental schemes. One part of this involved traditional meadows and orchards that are being managed as part of a midtier scheme which were home to unique species of plants. We were guided round the farm by Sarah, her farm and herd managers Matthew and Jack who did a fantastic job and answered all our questions – of which there were many! A huge thank you must go to them for showing us round and providing such great hospitality. As well as hosting the HCBA, Bosbury and High House Herefords represented our area when it came to hosting Hereford breeders from Kazakhstan. It is always a huge honour to show international delegates around and we were proud to be able to show two very diverse businesses and herds to them after travelling such a long way to view farms in the U.K. With this year being the biannual National Herd Competition, it was all systems go and competition was fierce for members pinning their
137 Small Herd, 1st Bosa, G Blandford; 2nd Buckenhill, M. Gray & L Crowther; 3rd Longridge, C McCreath; 4th Heath House, R & E Lywood Medium Herd, 1st Kingsland, Vaughan Farms; 2nd Boycefield, J & L Lewis; 3rd Hollybush, G & R Watkins; 4th Roughmoor, T & M Goodwin & C Powell hopes on their herds gaining the chance to represent our area later in the year. Undertaking the judging of herds from the HCBA was Joshua Brigg who is known for his renowned Gorse herd of pedigree Longhorn cattle. Over 20 herds were judged over the course of the week – a great task to accept so thanks must go to Joshua. The presentation evening was held at last year’s Small Herd winner R Lywood at Heath House where the cattle are managed by Mark Chandler. It’s safe to say that there was something for everyone at the presentation evening – whether it was the tour around the spectacular gardens at Heath House, the classic car collection for us to view or the herd of Hereford cattle. Many thanks again must go to the Lywoods for opening their home and gardens to us! The herd competition results are found below. Haven Herefords won overall Herd in the HCBA and went on to represent our area in the National Herd Competition. Due to the poor autumnal weather, we experienced this year, we decided to hold a pub social at the Talbot at Knightwick rather than a farm walk. This gave us a chance to catch up and in good old farming fashion – moan about the weather! Once again, the HCBA had the privilege of organising what is fast becoming the most popular Hereford show in the U.K. with the HCBA Christmas Calf Show held at Shrewsbury Livestock Market. This year’s event was a fantastic success with its largest number of entries ever for our master judge William McMordie of the Solpoll herd to place. Thanks must go to William and Victoria for making the
Large Herd, 1st Haven, E.L. Lewis & Son; 2nd Free Town, R.A. Bradstock & Partners; 3rd Risbury, R Thomas; 4th Hyde/Docklow, J. Walker Overall Herd Winner, Haven Herefords, E.L. Lewis & Son Stock Bull & Progeny, 1st Free Town, R.A. Bradstock & Partners; 2nd Bosa, G Blandford; 3rd Buckenhill, M. Gray & L Crowther; 4th Haven, E.L. Lewis & Son Best Bull Calf, 1st Roughmoor, T & M Goodwin & C Powell; 2nd Haven, journey over to the calf show. The standard on show was outstanding and we can’t thank exhibitors enough for raising the bar year on year. Sponsorship for this year’s show was superb with many sponsors getting involved on the day such as Herdwatch who had a trade stand at the event and Tallis Amos Group who brought a tractor to display at the market. As we are keen to encourage the youth within the breed we once again ran the popular young handlers competition which was judged by Boomer Birch and his wife Mille. The HCBA would once again like to thank all judges, stewards and Halls for their help on running the show and for making it such a great event to finish the year off in the Hereford calendar. Another highlight of the year for our association was being awarded The Thomas Duckham Award at the calf show. This was presented to us at the calf show and it was for a report we submitted back in the summer which outlined all the things as an association we had done to promote the breed in our area. We are extremely grateful to be recognised for our efforts with
E.L. Lewis & Son; 3rd Boycefield, J & L Lewis; 4th Risbury, R Thomas Best Heifer Calf, 1st Haven, E.L. Lewis & Son; 2nd Kingsland, Vaughan Farms; 3rd Risbury, R Thomas; 4th Callaughton, D Milner Best Bulling Heifer, 1st Heath House, R & E Lywood; 2nd Haven, E.L. Lewis & Son; 3rd Free Town, R.A. Bradstock & Partners; 4th Hollybush, G & R Watkins Best Yearling Bull, 1st Haven, E.L. Lewis & Son; 2nd Free Town, R.A. Bradstock & Partners; 3rd Adzor, D Makin; 4th Bosbury, Hawkins Farming Best Cow And Calf, 1st Freetown, R.A. Bradstock & Partners; 2nd Haven, E.L. Lewis & Son; 3rd High House, J.R. & H.M. Whitlow; 4th Risbury, R Thomas Best Stockman, 1st Andrew Whitlow, High House
this prestigious award. Looking ahead to 2024 we are keen to see how we can grow and develop the HCBA and provide all our members from Staffordshire, Shropshire, Worcestershire, and Herefordshire a quality club experience which can work for all. Thank you. Andrew Whitlow High House Herefords
Clubs & Associations
Herd Competition Results
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Midlands & East Anglia
Midlands & East Anglia Hereford Breeders’ Association
Clubs & Associations
Hereford Breeders’ Association Putting top quality Herefords on the map
Club Information
Lower Hurst Farm ‘Lower Hurst’ (P),
Bedfordshire Jim Speirs, ‘Pepperstock’ (P) Speirs Farm Ltd, Pepsal End Farm, Pepperstock, Luton, LU1 4LH. Mob: 07979463480 Email: speirs77@btinternet.com
Buckinghamshire Sarah Cowle ‘HighHedges’ (H) 15,
Station Road, Quainton, Aylesbury, HP22 4BW. Tel: 01296658310/07770666887. www.high-hedges-quainton.co.uk Email: high-hedges-quainton@outlook. com
Lower Hurst Farm, Hartington, Nr Buxton, SK17 0HJ. Tel: 0129884900. Email: steve@lowerhurstfarm.co.uk. Web: www.lowerhurstfarm.co.uk
Midlands & East Anglia Hereford Breeders' Association petermoyes@btinternet.com
Hertfordshire
Secretary Peter Moyes 07767 353205
Mrs. L. Jackson, ‘Sparkwood’ (H)
Woodrow Farm, Wigginton, Tring, HP23 6HT. Tel: 01442 823005. Email: lesleyjackson1@hotmail.co.uk Web: www.sparkwoodherefords.co.uk
meahba.co.uk
Leicestershire
Ian Markham, ‘Glenmore/Glengough’ (P), Glenmore Farm, Bullington End Road,
P. Cobley, ‘Kinglee’ (P), Stanton Farm, Broughton Road, Stoney Stanton, LE9 4JA. Tel: 07738 110102. Email: Pete.Cobley@Cobleytransport.co.uk
Cambridgeshire
Manor Farm, The Hollow, Normanton Le Heath, LE67 2TJ. Tel: 01530 264683/07710386329. Email: tlivesey@liveseybros.co.uk
Northamptonshire
Newtoncroft Farms Ltd, ‘Newtoncroft’ (P) Croft Farm, Newton Harcourt, Leicester,
Northampton, NN6 8SJ. Tel: 01604740295. Email: thornbyfarms@btinternet.com Peter Moyes - 07767 353205. Email: petermoyes@btinternet.com
Castlethorpe, Milton Keynes, MK19 7ER. Tel: 01908 511169/07778 180730. Email: ian.markham@btconnect.com
F.W. Cook & Son. ‘Albany’ (H) Albany Farm, Fen End, Over, CB24 5NE. Mob: 07818632353 / 07771333303. Email: info@albanyfarm.com Web: www.albanyfarm.com
Daniel Fabb & Helen Parr, ‘The Fabb Herd’ (P) Wilsons Orchard Farm, Fenside
Road, Warboys, PE28 2TY. Tel: 07584035080. Email: helen@fabbherd.com. Web: www.fabbherd.com
TD. & WT Livesey, ‘Normanton’ (P),
LE8 9FH. Tel: 01162 259387 Mob: 07990 686854. Email: ncf450@btinternet.com. Web: www.newtoncroftfarms.co.uk
Thornby Farms - Miss AE. Barlow, ‘Thornby’ (P), Thornby House, Thornby,
Oxfordshire
CE & JM Todd ‘Hatton Lodge’ (P),
M J Ludgate, Rempstone (P),
Karen Froud ‘Oldwest’ (H/P), 13
Hatton Lodge, Dalby Road, Nether Broughton, Melton Mowbray, LE14 3EX. Tel: 01664 822305 Email: candj.todd@btconnect.com
Scotsgrove Farm, Thame, OX9 3RX. Tel: 07725 558051. Email: jludgate@outlook.com Web: www.rempstoneherefords.co.uk
Derbyshire
Lincolnshire
Rutland
SA & VJ Elwess, ‘Elwess’ (H) Manor
JWE & SL Bevin, ‘Shorne Hill’ (P), ‘Shipley Hill’, Shorne Hill, Ridlington Road,
Hill Row, Haddenham, Ely, CB6 3TQ. Tel:07787576798. Email: p_kfroud@hotmail.com.
D.D. Rowley & Partners, ‘Hollo wseal’ (P), Hollows Farm, Sandy Lane, Netherseal,
Swadlincote, DE12 8BU. Tel: 01827 373293/07724743611. Email; carol@ hollowsealherefords.co.uk Web: hollowsealherefords.co.uk
Farm, Common Lane, Heapham, Gainsborough, DN21 5XB. Tel: 01427 838208. Simon: 07825446321. Victoria: 07764740540. Email: simon@elwess.com. victoria_elwess@hotmail.com. Web: www.elwessherefords.co.uk.
Norfolk Chris Blaxell, ‘Bittern Herefords’ (P)
White Lodge Farm, Southrepps Road, Antingham, North Walsham, NR28 0NW. Tel: 07768 171979. Email: chris@bitternherefords.co.uk.
Norman Farming Partnership, ‘Hickling’ (H), Poplar Farm, Sutton Road,
Derbyshire Nottinghamshire
Lincolnshire
Norfolk Leicestershire
Rutland
Philip & Laura Vincent, ‘Pulham’ (H/P). White House Farm, Coles Common,
Cambridgeshire Northamptonshire Warwickshire
Bedfordshire
Bucking hamshire
Hertfordshire
Oxfordshire
Hickling, NR12 0AS. Tel: 07584 564876. Email: robert@normanfarmingpartnership. co.uk
Essex
Pulham Market, Diss, IP21 4XT. Tel: 01379 676906 Philip 07771697866, Laura 07767838208. Web: www.pulhamherefords.co.uk. Email: philiprjvincent@hotmail.com / laura363@btinternet.com
Jonathan Wells & Partner, ‘Wellhart’ (P), Lethbridge House, Rogers Farm, London
Norwich Road, Costessey, Norwich, NR5 0LB. Tel: 07703126768. Email: leisafreeman2@gmail.com.
Braunston, Oakham, LE15 8DB. Tel: 07860819554/07711616944 Email: louise.bevin@hotmail.co.uk
Suffolk Owen Smith Farming, ‘Clement’ (H). Briar Cottage, School Lane, Bromeswell, Woodbridge, IP12 2PX. Tel: 01394460408 and 07885 594143. Email: owensmithfarming@live.com.
Warwickshire Nick & Lucy Holdsworth, ‘Pebworth’ (P) Little Meadows Farm, Pebworth, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 8XE. Tel: 07894074041 Email: nlholdsworth99@gmail.com
D.P. Jones Ag. Cont, ‘Maxstoke’ (P), Mill Farm, Fillongley Road, Maxstoke, Coleshill, B46 2QA. Tel: 07854258111. Email: mill-farm@btconnect.com. Mike & Caroline Shaw, ‘Thornysure’ (P) Wharf Farm, Darlingscote Road, Ilmington, Nr Shipston-on-Stour, CV36 4JA. Tel: 01608682556 / 07968486823. Email: thornysure@gmail.com.
Tom Elliott, ‘Noborough’ (P), Navigation Farm, Longdown Lane, Willoughby, CV23 8AG. Tel: 07508 624376 Email: tom.elliott82@outlook.com
139
After an action packed 2022, 2023 got off to an excellent start with our annual Stock Judging evening in May at Kinglee Herefords by kind permission of Pete Cobley. A record breaking 49 people took part, with the top spot being taken by Nick Holdsworth, with Dave Hemstock in 2nd place and Ryan Coates in 3rd. Our master judge was last year’s winner, Emma Dexter, who carried out her duties well and gave comprehensive reasons for her placings. The judging was followed by a tour of more quality cattle from the Kinglee herd and finally all returned to the farm for a replenishing supper. Thanks were given to Pete, Steve Edwards and Emma Dexter for hosting and preparing the cattle and Karen Froud for collating the results. We sent several teams to the National Stock Judging Competition at the Royal Three
Counties Show and were delighted that Steve & Sarah Cowle & Cassidy Bowen took third place. We were especially proud of Young Member, Finlay Soutter who was joint 1st in the Young Competitors competition. Well done Fin. The summer shows kicked off in early May and have been well supported from all corners of the area. The Royal Norfolk, continues to be our best supported show and this year we had over 40 head attending. We were able to have a stand next to the cattle lines again, thanks to the Hereford Cattle Society, which proved to be a focal point for exhibitors and members of the public wishing to learn more about the breed. Special thanks to Paul Sneyd for attending on the Wednesday and to Laura Vincent for organising the stand. Twm Jones of the Dendor herd had the difficult task of judging. He tapped out as his overall champion, the eventual joint bull of the year, Coley 1 Vincent from Liam Jackson-Carr with professional jockey Andrew Hughes at the helm. The Hereford breed took the inter-breed group of three and the inter-breed pairs championships. During the evening of the first day, exhibitors and friends, including celebrity chef, Galton Blackiston enjoyed a Hereford beef roll supplied by Tony Perkins Butchers and drinks kindly supplied by Pulham Herefords. This was well
received at the end of a long day showing and the evening will hopefully be repeated in future years. Other congratulations in the sale and show rings go to TD & WT Livesey for winning junior male champion and taking the highest price with Normanton 1 Whiskey at the Society’s Spring Show & Sale. Further success followed for Michael & James Ludgate and Joe Clark of Rempstone Herefords for winning female and overall champion at the Royal Three Counties show with Rempstone 1 Curly N604, swiftly followed all the way by Nick and Lucy Holdsworth who were reserve female and reserve overall champion with Pebworth 1 Vesper. Pulham Admiral bred by PRJ & LR Vincent was crowned supreme champion at The National Horned Show at Tenbury Wells and this was followed later in the year by Pulham Admiral earning the cup for the Horned Bull of the Year and Pulham being presented with the Horned Herd of the Year trophy. The National Poll Show saw Rempstone 1 Bonny N655 from M. Ludgate taking reserve grand female and joint reserve overall champion and Normanton 1 Warnie W980 from TD & WT Livesey tapped out as reserve grand male and intermediate male champion. Finally, the Society’s Autumn Show & Sale saw Normanton 1 Warnie W890 from TD & WT Livesey
Clubs & Associations
Midlands & East Anglia Hereford Breeders' Association
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Clubs & Associations
placed reserve grand male and reserve junior male champion, Thornysure 1 Willy Wonka from Mike and Caroline Shaw taking the senior male champion and Newtoncroft 1 Whole-Lot-Of-Fun from Newtoncroft Farms Ltd win the reserve senior male champion.
Herd Competition Once again, we held our Herd Competition in July and Clive Roads of McCartneys was the man tasked with judging this year’s competition. He travelled around the area in seven days, covering over 1000 miles and visiting 21 herds. We included two new classes this year, ‘Best five females sired by the same bull’ and ‘Overall highest points scored’. We also initiated a new format to our prize giving and held a very successful evening, the following week after the judging had taken place. Phil & Laura Vincent hosted for us as they won the competition last year and 50 members and friends attended. We enjoyed some fine refreshments and a wonderful tractor and trailer ride tour around the farm. Before the prizes were awarded, Clive took us on his journey of visiting the herds in the competition with a fantastic rendition of his tour, mentioning stand out animals in every herd. Clive talked about ‘memorable cattle and marvellous hospitality’ things which we pride ourself as an association on. His description of seeing ‘some good cattle, some excellent cattle and some superb cattle’, culminated in PRJ & LR Vincent being crowned ‘Best Herd’ for the fifth consecutive year!
Herd Competition Results Best Herd, JG Hollands Trophy, PRJ & LR Vincent, Pulham Small Herd, 1st Oldwest, K Froud/M Church; 2nd High Hedges, S Cowle; 3rd Wellhart, J Wells/L Freeman Medium Herd, 1st Kinglee, P Cobley; 2nd Rempstone, M J Ludgate; 3rd Hollowseal, DD Rowley & Partners Large Herd, 1st Pulham, PRJ & LR Vincent; 2nd Normanton, TD & WT Livesey; 3rd Pepperstock, Speirs Farms Ltd Best Bull Calf, Geoffrey Lewis Cup, 1st PRJ & LR Vincent, Pulham Admiral Best Heifer Calf, Chadshunt Cup, 1st TD & WT Livesey, Normanton 1 Blue Leg
Stock Bull, Mardleybury Cup, 1st PRJ & LR Vincent, Solpoll 1 Sympa Bull Under 30 Months, Pulham Trophy, 1st TD & WT Livesey, Normanton 1 Warnie Cow Suckling A Calf, MEAHBA Cup, 1st PRJ & LR Vincent, Clipston Tiara W15 & Clipston 1 Felix Heifer Under 2 Years, Michael Church Plate, 1st TD & WT Livesey, Normanton 1 Fistulina 44th Best Five Females sired by the same bull, Prize Card, 1st P Cobley, Sire, Panmure Karl Highest Point, Alvian Cup, 1st PRJ & LR Vincent, 160
141
AGM Our AGM, this year, was held in Warwickshire, and kindly hosted by Colin and Mary Jones of the Maxstoke herd. The usual necessary business matters were dealt with including the election of officers. Miss A.E. Barlow as President, Ryan Coates with a second term of Chair and Jimmy Speirs as Vice Chairman. The committee was re-elected with the addition of Emma Dexter and the departure of Roy Johnson, James Ludgate and Helen Parr who all stood down. The association would like to thank them for their contributions over the years. We announced the results of our Summer Show Points awards and presented the trophies. Individual animal gaining the most points – Paul Sapsed Cup, Pepperstock 1 Voyager from Speirs Farms and Newtoncroft 1 Patience from Newtoncroft Farms. Animal with the most points from a herd of less than 20 cows – Austin Manning Cup, Newtoncroft 1 Patience from Newtoncroft Farms Champion Young Handler – High Hedges Cup, Anna Elwess and Joshua Matthews The meeting was followed by a fantastic beef dinner prepared expertly by Colin and Mary’s son Matthew and his team. After lunch, members visited the Maxstoke herd and saw some excellent examples of Hereford cattle, witnessed a calf being born and enjoyed tea and cakes, before thanks were made from our outgoing President Michael Church. We were saddened by the passing during the year of Bob Borwick, Tony Gough, Pat Markham and Joy Pittam. All will be missed by members, but particular mention must go to Joy, our joint President last year and who for so many years has supported Alan in his position of secretary and played a huge role in providing refreshments at summer shows and a warm and welcoming smile at all association events.
Clubs & Associations
Pulham represented us again in the National Herd Competition and congratulations go to them for being announced Runner Up.
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Clubs & Associations
National
Club Information
Hereford Club Chairman Tony Bradstock Tel: 07941 092858 Email: tony@free-town.co.uk
Vice Chair David Makin Tel: 07961 033283
National - Hereford Club Sarah Cook alcroftcattle@hotmail.co.uk
07771 333303
Email: adzorherefords@googlemail.com
Club Secretary
nationalherefordclub.co.uk
Sarah Cook Tel: 07771 333303 Email: alcroftcattle@hotmail.co.uk
Entries Secretary Sarah Cowle Tel: 01 296 658310 Email: s.cowle@hotmail.co.uk
Ervie and Drumdow host NHC AGM visits Members travelled to the seaside town of Portpatrick, near Stranraer, for the National Hereford Club AGM & herd visits, held across the weekend of 3rd & 4th June. Kindly hosting the first of two farm tours were John Douglas and family of Ervie Herefords, the well-known pedigree herd which holds an annual bull sale in their on-farm
auction room, alongside breeding and selling pedigree Aberdeen Angus cattle, Texel and Romney sheep, and Appaloosa horses. John, with his wife Alexandra and daughters Rosie, Ellen, Olivia and Kristina run the 620-acre farm situated on an exposed stretch of coastland on the Rhins of Galloway peninsula on the west coast of Scotland, testing and recording the stock’s performance on a fiercely commercial, grass-based system to ensure productivity of the large suckler herd, and consequently the breeding bulls produced from it. Upon weaning, bull calves are wintered on the farm’s own silage supplemented with just 1.5kg/
head/day of cereals, this being the only time they’ll see hard feed. As yearlings they are turned away to grass to grow on until the autumn, when selection begins for which will make the cut for the annual Spring sale. John explained that their aim is to produce strong, fit, 2-yearold bulls from a low-input system, where buyers can have confidence that the bulls will thrive at work on any farm. Heavily influenced by imported Line One genetics and containing several tribes to ensure a spread of bloodlines are available as a basis for line breeding, the herd is performance recorded and operates a strict culling policy. Day two of the trip saw members travel just one farm further inland
143 John Douglas, Ervie Herefords to one of the Ervie bull sales’ top customers, Robert Parker of Drumdow Black Baldies. Operating a cross-breeding program using Hereford and Aberdeen Angus bulls within his high-health suckler herd, as well as a flock of Easy Care sheep, Robert’s was another grassbased enterprise with a strong emphasis on commercial viability, achieved by keeping a detailed eye on performance data.
Robert explained that the focus at Drumdow is on fertility, where the herd’s conception rates, ease of calving and dam functionality are of utmost importance to the efficiency of the operation. Calving for the first time as 2-years-olds, the Hereford-sired females are put to Angus bulls and vice-versa, with the continuation of this simple breeding program maintaining hybrid vigour throughout each
The National Hereford Club are grateful to both John Douglas and Robert Parker for inviting us to view their farms, and to all who made the trip so enjoyable. As expected, the hospitality was superb, and the weather could not have been better to experience such a stunning setting for these impressive herds of cattle though we were all well aware that the area was not often as temperate as the weekend we had chosen! The quality and condition of the animals shone through at both places and it was fantastic to get together to discuss Herefords with a group of breeders so passionate about their stock.
ERVIE LINE ONE Ervie grass-reared youngstock grow naturally into productive, problem-free sires & dams with longevity & high maternal traits. Ervie Spring Bull Sale February each year with catalogue of approx. 50. Bulls & breeding females for sale by private treaty mostly year-round. Selling singles or groups. Enquiries welcome. Add some “Ervie” to your herd!!
Foundation cow family pedigrees stacked with generations of high-maternal genetics One or a Float Load – Your Opportunity Awaits Check on our website for up-to-date information on our sales and breeding cattle throughout the year.
Tel. 01776854226 or e-mail johndouglas@agriplus.net Visitors always welcome by appointment.
www.ervieherefords.co.uk
Clubs & Associations
generation. Any problems with fertility, docility, or locomotion are culled out, with all female replacements sourced from within the yearling crop, the surplus predominantly sold for breeding to other suckler herds. Bulls are purchased only from high-health herds such as Ervie, where the breeding system and values match those at Drumdow to ensure a correct fit.
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Clubs & Associations
Yarram Unique P160 First son - Haven Aviator
Mawarra Influential Q162 First son - Haven Akubra
Sold to Dieulacresse Herefords
Haven Herefords Ruby
Ruby
Ruby...
Havenfield 1 Wilf sold to Bowendu HCS Spring Sale
Havenfield 1 Ruby 6th sold to Brynheath HCBA Sale
Tullaha Graceful Bought from Tommy Cregan & family adding to the sire battery which includes: - Haven Voltage - Dieulacresse Tic Tac - Houghton View 1 Jackpot - Haven Waterford - Havenfield 1 Weston
E. L. Lewis & Son Edward, Carol and Ben Lewis,
The Haven, Dilwyn, Hereford, HR4 8JB Tel: 01544 318255 Edward: 07974744660 Ben: 07527011451 Web: www.havenherefords.co.uk Email: edward@havenherefords.co.uk
WWW.CATOPOLLHEREFORDS.COM
Thank you to everyone who bought bulls and heifers from us. Contact Jonathan Moorhouse Tel: 01984 656292 Mob: 07714 104692 Email: jmoorhouse@catopollherefords.com
South West Herd of the Year 2002, 2010, 2016, 2018 and 2023
Clubs & Associations
JOHNES LEVEL 1 145
146
Clubs & Associations
ion
North of England
Club Information
Hereford Breeders’ Association Durham
East Yorkshire
Mr. Stuart Hall, 'Starlight' (P), Plough Farm, Haswell, County Durham DH6 2AZ Tel: 01915 208158 Email: ploughfarm@icloud.com
AM & SV Soanes, 'Kiplingcotes' (P/ BP), Wallis Grange, Kiplingcotes, Market
Bethan Hutchinson, 'Bethanfield' (P), Field House Farm, Greatham, Billingham TS23 3TQ Mobile: 07903 415044 Email: bethan3012@hotmail.co.uk
W & R Kemp & Sons, 'Auckvale' (P),
Wigdon Walls Farm, Bishop Auckland, Co. Durham DL14 0LN Tel:Infomation 01388 603395 Mobile: 07803 692545 Club Email: wigdonwalls@talktalk.net
Weighton, YORK YO43 3LX Sarah Soanes, Tel: 07970416334 or 01430810664 Email: sarahvsoanes@gmail.com
Cumbria
Mrs Carolyn Fletcher, 'Barwise' (P),
Catcleugh, Newcastle upon Tyne NE191TY petermoyes@btinternet.com Tel: 07881 379 809 Email: chattlehope@gmail.com
Nether Hall, Mansergh, Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria LA6 2EW Tel: 015242 73927 Mobile: 07808 050030 Email: netherhall@hotmail.co.uk
The Old Potato House, Eltringham Farm, maehba.co.uk Mickley, Stocksfield, Northumberland NE43 7DF Di Mobile: 07962 076853 Tom Mobile: 07962 076 854 Email: moraleeherefords@gmail.com
North Yorkshire Stephen Tate, 'Blackwood' (H/P), White
Lodge Farm, Green Lane, Easingwold, York YO61 3ER Tel: 01347 823 190 Mobile: 07964 753079 Email: Stephen@thetates.me.uk
Mark and Gemma Dobson, 'Whitehill'(P), Raikes Farm, Hartlington,
Burnsall, Skipton, North Yorkshire BD23 6BX Tel: 01756 720210 Mobile: 0777 992 0202 Email: whitehillherefords@hotmail.co.uk,
DK & DK Hanson, 'Hanson' (P), Bay View
Farming Co, Bay View Farm, North Street, Flixton, Nr. Scarborough, North Yorkshire YO11 3UA Mobile: 07852334503 Email: david@hansonherefords.co.uk
Nether Hall Farm Ltd, 'Netherhall' (P),
Mr Matthew Rollason, 'New Dawn' (P),
Cheshire
Mrs Jackie Cooper, 'Rimini' (P), Pollards Farm, Howick Cross Lane, Penwortham, PR1 0NS Mobile: 07960 994 376 Email: mootoyoutoo77@gmail.com
Mr. John Morris, 'Bradmore' (P), 1b Wrenshot Lane, High Legh, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 6NQ Mobile: 07711 506020 Email: bakersfield2@hotmail.co.uk R & R I Shaw, 'Hallwood' (P), Hallwood
Farm, Badgers Rake Lane, Ledsham, South Wirral, Cheshire CH66 8PF Mobile: 07885 438 993 (Ian) Mobile: 07774 469 896 (Robert) Email: robertshaw1102@gmail.com
Mr Sam Walton, 'Walrose' (P),
Reaseheath College, Reaseheath, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 6DG Tel: 07840 638877 Email: farmersam_123@hotmail.com
West Yorkshire Mr Brian J Boulton, 'Stoner' (P), Stones Farm, Wainstalls, Halifax, HX2 7UJ Tel: 01422 240573 Mobile: 07399 178888 (Brian) Mobile: 07903 325341 (Lauren) Email: stoner1lauren@hotmail.com
Durham
Farm, Well Hill Road, Greenmoor, Sheffield S35 7DP Tel: 07957 543 646 Email: alancrooks1@live.co.uk
Damien and Liam Jackson-Carr. JC' (P), Eltock Farm, Cliffe Lane,
East Yorkshire
Lancashire West Yorkshire
Greater Manchester
Cheshire
South Yorkshire
Farm, Parr Lane, Eccleston, PR7 5RL Mobile: 07815 790880 Email: eveter@outlook.com
Mr & Mrs B & B A Rimmer, 'Barbern' (P), Holmefields Farm, Off Long Lane, Scorton, Preston, Lancashire PR3 1DB Mobile 0771 425 4564 Email: barbara.rimmer@hotmail.co.uk
Maddy Scott, 'Holmefold' (P), Holmefold Farm, Tower View, Belthorn, Blackburn BB1 2PD Tel: 07462 950 206 Email: maddyscott1997@gmail.com S R Taylor & D Marsh, 'Taymar' (P),
Miss Heather Whittaker, 'Coley' (P),
Mr Alan Crooks, 'Well Hill' (P), Well Hill
North Yorkshire
Mrs E Jackson, 'Eveter' (P), Bradley Hall
S & E Walker, 'Hoghton View' (P), Lane Side Farm, Blackburn Old Road, Hoghton, Preston, Lancashire, PR5 0SG Tel: 01254 852187 Mob: 07814 056943 Email: steven@hoghtonviewherefords. co.uk
South Yorkshire
Cumbria
Mr Gary Hall, 'Pinmoor'(P), Sedbury Home Farm, Gilling West, Richmond, DL105LF Tel: 07710 193 013 Email: gary_hall@ntlworld.com
James Siddall, 'Hall Green' (P),
Coley Walks Farm, Norwood Green, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX3 8RD Tel: Andrew Hughes 07861 899 646 Mobile: 07811 207 244 (Heather) Email: coleywalks@tiscali.co.uk
Tyne and Wear
Hill Top Farm, Mill Lane, Great Harwood, Lancashire, BB6 7UQ Mobile: 07794 458798 Email: matthew_rollason96@outlook.com
6 Jane lane, Hesketh Farm, Midge hall, Leyland, Lancashire PR26 6TQ Tel : 07740193866 & 07860636605 or Matt Taylor 07832480355 Email: moocowdebs@yahoo.co.uk
Lower Hall Green Farm, Hall Green Lane, Rishworth, Sowerby Bridge, West Yorkshire Tel: 07517562280 Email: hallgreenherefords@btinternet.com
Northumberland
Secretary Phil Massey 07878 665309
Carleton farm, Saltcoats, Holmrook, Cumbria CA191YZ Mob 07581488378 Email neil.cummings@btinternet.com
Northumberland Midlands & East Anglia
07767 353205 Tom & Di Harrison, 'Moralee' (H/P),
nehbasecretary@gmail.com
N & L Cummings, 'Carleton' (P), Hall
Barwise Hall, Appleby in Westmorland, Cumbria CA16 6TD Tel: 01768 353430 Mobile: 07711 415694 Email: info@barwisepedigreecattle.com
Hereford Breeders' Davie and Kate Dickinson, Association 'Mallowburn' (P), Chattlehope House,
North of England Hereford Breeders' Association
Carlecotes, South Yorkshire S36 4TG. Tel: 07951 066525
Lancashire A & P Massey, 'Hollyvale' (P), Hollins
Mount Farm, Bury, Lancashire BL9 8AS Tel: 0161 766 3320 Tel: Phil Massey 07878 665309 Allen Massey 07917 324 471 Email: phil_massey@hotmail.co.uk
Greater Manchester Rebecca and Chris Abbott, 'Crawford' (P), Moorside Farm, Hobson Moor Road,
Mottram, Cheshire SK14 6SG Tel: 07388 034502 Email becabbott@outlook.com
B & J Ellis, 'Leo’s Pride' (P), Bores Farm, Chorley Road, Worthington, Wigan, WN1 2XJ Mobile: 07967 741 492 Email: bettyhereford@outlook.com Wythenshawe Community Farm, c/o Allen Massey, 'Wythen' (P),
Wythenshawe Park, Wythenshawe Road, Wythenshawe, M23 0AB Tel: 0161 946 0726 Mobile: Allen 07917 324 471
147
At Barwise we have an excellent selection of quality females for sale, both in calf and maiden heifers.
Clubs & Associations
info@barwisepollherefords.com
148
Clubs & Associations
North of England Hereford Breeders' Association Well, another 12 months has passed as quickly and as chaotic as usual. We’ve had a great year in the North of England, with many of our members attending and competing at both local shows and large agricultural showcase events such as Beef Expo, the Great Yorkshire Show and Agri Expo. All three major events were well attended and supported by our members. We must keep up the great work and push our breed in to the future of agriculture. In February we held our AGM at Crooklands Hotel, Kendal. Jackie Cooper stepped down from the position of secretary, a role she had brilliantly carried out for many years. The position was taken over by Phillip Massey of Hollyvale and Castle Mount Herefords. Our largest summer show, the Great Yorkshire Show in Harrogate, Yorkshire was held in July under
blue (and grey) skies! Judging this year was undertaken by Matthew Goulding, Gouldingpoll Herefords. We had a great entry at the show, particularly with 6 bulls in the senior-most male class and 16 females born in 2023 forward. The Champion on the day was Coley 1 Vincent, exhibited by JC Herefords, Liam Jackson-Carr. It was great to see the title go to our area’s youngest exhibitor, with the assistance of Heather Whittaker and Andrew Hughes of Coley Herefords, breeders of Vincent. This year was particularly busy for
myself and Emma as I was asked to judge the North of England herd competition. Our area stretches from as south as Cheshire into the North of Cumbria and Northumberland. It was a privilege to have been asked to judge and a pleasure visiting so many great herds, a total of 16 herds entered. I set out a plan to visit local herds during some summers evenings to help get the job done on top of usual work commitments. Having travelled the length and breadth of our area, it’s fair to say there’s quality throughout all the herds I visited, and the hospitality of the breeders was second to none. There were varying types of cattle and systems which also proved the diversity of our great breed. The stock bull competition was an extremely strong category with some tremendous bulls being used in our area. I chose a bull that I would have liked to see in my own field at home, Whitehills 1 Spartans,a bull I’m sure we’ve not heard the last of, so congratulations
149 Large Herd Category, 1st Auckvale Herefords, W & R Kemp and Sons; 2nd Hoghton View Herefords, S and E Walker; 3rd - Barbern Herefords, B and B Rimmer
Best Stockbull, 1st Whitehill 1 Spartans, M and G Dobson; 2nd Barwise 1 Plutarch, B and B Rimmer; 3rd Kinglee 1 Vanguard, A and P Massey
Medium Herd Category, 1st Moralee Herefords, T and D Harrison; 2nd Bethanfield Herefords, B Hutchinson; 3rd (Joint) Taymar Herefords, S Taylor and D Marsh & Hollyvale Herefords, A and P Massey
Best Heifer Calf, 1st Taymar 1 Stella 3rd S.Taylor and D Marsh; 2nd Hoghton View 1 Greta, S and E Walker; 3rd - Hollyvale 1 June 414, A and P Massey
Small Herd Category, 1st Stoner Herefords, B and L Boulton; 2nd Walrose Herefords, S Walton; 3rd Holmefold Herefords, M Scott to Mark and Gemma Dobson of Whitehill Herefords. Many of the categories were incredibly close, but the overall winners were Auckvale Herefords, W & R Kemp and Sons who went on to be placed 3rd in the National competition. Before we knew it, we were at the end of a somewhat difficult summer and in September our NEHBA herd visit was held at Bradley Hall farm, home of Killean Lincoln Reds. I’m the farm manager here which is also current home to Eveter Herefords. We took a tour around the fields and sheds (due the rain we had all suffered throughout summer 2023!) to look at the breeding and fattening cattle. The farm also runs a water buffalo enterprise which sparked much interest and some great discussions. We held a stock judging competition before lunch and a short presentation of herds competition prizes. After lunch we travelled to the second farm to view the pedigree cows and calves out grazing. The highlight of many people on the day was the tour of the butcher's shop owned and run by the Ruttle family,
Best Bull Calf , 1st Auckvale 1 Avatar, W & R Kemp and Sons; 2nd Moralee 1 Arrow, T and D Harrison; 3rd Hoghton View 1 Rip, S and E Walker with an extremely interesting demonstration from our butcher showing where and how to cut a hind quarter. It was no surprise to hear how the butcher favoured the carcass of native bred cattle, with particular emphasis on eating quality. Our summer shows run from May to the end of September, with a great number of shows in the North of England having Hereford breed classes. The NEHBA Male and Female of the year are awarded following the show season to the animals gaining the most points
across the shows in our area. 7 shows qualified this year as having enough animals forward. The results from which are as follows: NEHBA Male of the Year 2023 Holmefold 1 Rocco, Maddy Scott. NEHBA Reserve Female of the Year 2023 – Hallwood 1 Apollo, R and RI Shaw NEHBA Female of the Year 2023 – Hollyvale 1 June 4th, A and P Massey NEHBA Reserve Female of the Year 2023 – Joint winners Coley 1 Duchess, H Whittaker and Hollyvale 1 Leyla 3rd, A and P Massey. Agri Expo was held at Borderway Mart in October. This was another great event, co-hosted with the SHBA. Twm Jones, Dendor Herefords did a great job sorting out some large classes with 81 calves entered. Champion was a North of England exhibit, Coley 1 Alexander, Coley Herefords. With this being my final year as chairman, I would like to thank all that have supported me through these last 2 years and say it has been an honour and pleasure to have served the association. Richard Jackson
Clubs & Associations
Herd Competition Results
150
Northern Ireland
Club Information
Clubs & Associations
Hereford Breeders’ Association "The home of quality Herefords"
S Curry, 'Broughan' (H), 86, Ennislare
Co. Antrim
Road, BT60 2PU, 02837 511200, sg.curry650@btinternet.com
T Andrews, 'Mountview' (P), 18
Ballyfore Road, Raloo, Larne, BT40 3NF, 02893344376, 07801448939, trevorandrews67@btinternet.com Belfast Road, Nutts Corner, Crumlin, BT29 4TQ, 078351113600, nicky.martin7@hotmail.co.uk
orthern Ireland
mark-moore@hotmail.co.uk
J Graham, 'Richmount' (P), Carrick Hill,
Secretary Mark Moore 07966 876575
Mrs K Greenaway & Mr WG Conn, 'Hilltop' (H/P), Ithiel House 23
herefordni.co.uk
42 Richmount Road, Portadown, BT62 4JQ, 02838336570, 07984458007, espritni@btconnect.com
P & N Beatty, 'Aughnamullan' (P), 22
Northern Ireland Hereford Breeders' Association
Derryvinny Road, Birches, Portadown, BT62 1SX, 07801844723, kathryngreenaway@live.co.uk
S Cherry, 'Ballypallady' (P), 77
Ballymartin Road, Templepatrick, BT39 0BS, 07779036556, steviecherry_69@yahoo.co.uk
C Halliday, 'Derrygavad' (H), 21
SH Coleman, 'Polldona' (P), Hardona 160 Dunminning Road, Glarryford, Ballymena, BT44 9ET, 02825 685796, 02825 685396
JE & RI & W Haire, 'Dorepoll' (P),
Loughanhill 41 Divis Road, Dundrod, Crumlin, BT29 4UB, 02890 825215, 02890 825215, haire.dorepoll@btopenworld.com
FA & E Kerridge, 'Boghill' (P), 9 Connor Road, Parkgate, Templepatrick, BT39 0DY, 028944337800
Derrgavad Road, Annaghmore, Portadown, BT62 1ND, 02838852684, 07598135648, lhalliday100@gmail.com
J & A Henning, 'Glenmount' (P), 17 Keadymore Road, Mountnorris, BT60 2UH, 0784301681, jimbohenning@gmail.com Miss J Hunter, 'Sweet Briar' (H/P),
20 Derrycughan Road, Markethill, BT60 1RW, 02837507259, 07706873733, jennahunter643@hotmail.co.uk
R & J Irvine, 'Graceland'(P), 115
Ballymoyer Road, Whitecross, BT60 2JN, 02837507005, 02837507005, robin.irvine@nigta.co.uk
I Martin, 'Ballymave' (P), 94 Ballinderry Road, Upper Ballinderry, Lisburn, BT28 2NW, 07783193323, i-martin@hotmail. co.uk
E McCorry, 'Roselodge' (P), 50B Crumlin Road, Ballinderry, Lisburn, BT28 2JZ, 02894454104, eamon.mccorry@hotmail.co.uk
C Kerr, 'Kinnego' (P), 67 Annesborough Road, Kinnego, Lurgan Craigavon, BT67 9JD, 07956656588, ciarankerr_86@hotmail.co.uk
Farm, 23 Creeve Road, Randalstown, BT41 3LW, 07836701782 - G, 07725914391 - J, ethancareysmall@yahoo.co.uk
P Auret, 'Lessans' (P), 126 Monlough
Road, Saintfield, Ballynahinch, BT24 7EU, 02897 510141, 07808923894
J Coulter, 'Ballynahinch'(P), 58 Dromara Road, Ballynahinch, BT24 8JW, j.coulter700@btinternet.com
W Morrow & Son, 'Grovehill' (P), Grove
WJ Gill, 'Lusky' (P), 57 Saintfield Road, Killinchy, Newtownards, BT23 6RL, 02897542757, 07968754976
S Baxter, 'Umgola' (H/P), Tarascon House, 22 Monaghan Road, Armagh, BT60 4DA, 02837 524606, 07752392229, stephen.baxter20@yahoo.co.uk
G Morton, 'Nancy'(H/P), 11a Madden Road, Armagh, BT60 3LN, 07761979806, glennmorton@hotmail.co.uk
J Conlon, 'Drumatee' (P), 27 Gosford
Mullantine Road, Portadown, Craigavon, BT62 4EJ, 02838335615, 07860356727
Road, Markethill, BT60 1QD, 02837551488, 07753471873, drumateelivestock@hotmail.co.uk
Co. Down
R Milliken, 'Farnaloy' (P), 76 Farnaloy
Hill Farm, Drumnakelly, Portadown, BT62 3SG, 02838 330777, 07855 829420, morrowportadown@btinternet.com
Co. Armagh
Road, Cashel Tassagh, BT60 2QY, 07845050751, declantoner87@gmail.com
R Fee, 'Drumadonnell' (P), 41 Drumgooland Road, Ballyroney, Banbridge, BT32 5HB, 07833744016, robinfee@ hotmail.co.uk
Road, Madden, BT60 3LR, 07821728584, beckymilliken90@hotmail.co.uk
J & G Small, 'Drumshanbo' (P), Hilltop
D Toner, 'Cluster' (H/P), 200 Coolmillish
N Patterson, 'Mullantine (P)', 64
J Henning, 'Boley' (P), 180 Castlewellan Road, Cabra, Newry, BT34 5EX, 02840632020, 07739611220 WI Hewitt, 'Clonroot' (P), Tree Tops, 48 Drumard Road, Portadown, Craigavon , BT62 4HP, 02838 333866, bertiehewitt007@gmail.co
Mrs J Martin, 'Lisola' (P), 34 Lisdoonan
Road, Saintfield, BT24 7HH, 02890 817292, 07745080388 - D Martin, jackie.martin@live.co.uk
Roy & Pat McClenaghan, 'Brookfield' (P), Brook Cottage, 72 Ballymiscaw Road,
Holywood, BT18 9RW, 02890427945, r_mcclenaghan@hotmail.com
C McCord, 'Ballycrune' (P), 271 Ballynahinch Road, Anahilt, Hillsborough, BT26 6BP, 07709390346, 01159 451000 CmcCord@finning.com
Derry/Londonderry Antrim
D McMinn Johnston, 'Maytown' (P), 22 Main Street, Bessbrook, Newry, BT35 7DJ, 07835696101, dianemcminn05@hotmail.co.uk A McMordie, 'Solitude' (P), Solitude, Ballygowan, Newtownards, BT23 6NA, 02897528222, 07890042168, andymcm8@hotmail.co.uk
Tyrone
McMordie Family, 'River-Dale' (P), 3 Riverdale Lane, Saintfield, BT24 7JG, 028 97511181, 07836362029, norman.mcmordie@gmail.com
Fermanagh
Down Armagh
J & W McMordie, 'Solpoll' (P), Solitude, Ballygowan, BT23 6NA, 02897 528222, 0786 6125959, johnmcm@hotmail.co.uk W McMordie, Solitude, Ballygowan, Newtownards, BT23 6NA, 02897528222, 07891903243, willmcm@hotmail.com
151 RM Richmond, 'Corraback', (H)
M Murdock, 'Lisnaree' (P), 25 Shinn
DR Wilson, 'Lisrace' (H), Lisrace,
Ballyrainey Rd, Comber, Newtownards, BT23 5JU, 028 91878316, 07836668719, louise@mashdirect.com
Road, Newry, BT34 1PB, 02840631301, murdockr25@yahoo.co.uk
A Rea, 'Glassdrummond' (H/P), 62
Glassdrumman Road, Ballynahinch, BT24 8TW, 02897561084, 07828489414
D Smyth, 'Magheraknock' (H),
Magheraknock House, 65 Creevytennant Road, Ballynahinch, BT24 8UJ, 02892 639322, 02892639322, m5wds@hotmail.com
J & K Taggart, 'Carney Hill' (P), 34
New Road, Carrowdore, Newtownards, BT22 2HB, 07715906009, 02891 862345, johngtaggart@hotmail.com
B & G Watson, 'Barnburn' (P), 64
Templeburn Road, Crossgar, Downpatrick, BT30 9NG, 07990517766 Greer Watson, watson595@btinternet.com
Killynick, Aghalane Enniskillen, BT92 9HJ, 02867748382, corrabackherefords@hotmail.co.uk
Co. Londonderry
RA Knipe, 'Hillside' (H), 5 Donnelly’s Hill
J A Nevin, 'Ballymenagh' (P), 129 Cashel
Road, Benburb, Dungannon, BT71 7NL, 07702 341681
T Nevin, 'Magharacastle (P)', 130 Cashel Rd , Ringsend , Coleraine, BT51 4HW, j.nevin129@btinternet.com
D McCrea, 'Tamnabrady' (P), 22 Ballybeeny Road, Bready, Strabane, BT82 0DF, 02871343194, dereknmccrea@btinternet.com
Rd , Ringsend , Coleraine, BT51 4HW
Co.Tyrone C & M Beatty & Son, 'Castlepoll' (P), 49 Leany Road, Castletown, Cabra, Dungannon, BT70 1SL, 028855 57349
R Black, 'Candleford' (P), 10 Rogers Road, Tattykeel, Omagh, BT78 5DD, 02882 252695, 02882 841746, robertblack@live.co.uk
I & G Browne, 'Clogher Valley' (P), 47
M & J Doonan, 'Glebe' (P), Drummonds
Dungannon, BT71 7DX, peter.colins@btinternet.com
Glebe, Roslea, BT92 7NU, 028 677 51844, 07809835427
N Elliott, 'Killyvilly' (P), 16 - 18 Cloghtate
Road, Hilltop, Killyvilly, Enniskillen, BT74 4AJ, 02866328077, niallelliott@aol.com
N Hudson, 'Corcreevy' (H), 8 Raw Road,
Brookeborough, BT94 4GE, 07780912961, niallhudson@hotmail.com
J Kirkland, 'Kilmore' (H), 29 Ballyvaddy Road, Brantry, Dungannon, BT70 1LW, 07771776747, jaykirk69@hotmail.com
G Buchanan, 'Cassan' (H), Cassan
House, Innishmore, Lisbellaw, BT94 5NN, 028 66387580, 07923838822
Ballygawley, BT70 2JY, 028 87752909, 028 87752990, des.kelly@cavanaghkelly.com
Magheraveely, BT92 6PP, 02867751666
Screeby Road, Fivemiletown, BT75 0LF, 07901856063, beechcroftnursery@btinternet.com
Co.Fermanagh
D Kelly, 'Mullin' (H/P), 7 Dergenagh Road,
P Collins, 'Drumgold' (P), 105 Moy Road, IR Elliott, 'Ballymully' (P), 24
Sessiagh Road, Cookstown, BT80 8SN, 07419988454, 02886762012, pelliott_ bob@hotmail.co.uk
AJJ Glasgow, 'Killycurraghpoll' (P), Springhill, Killycurragh, Cookstown, BT80 9LR, 02886751305
A & S Irvine, 'Pallas' (H/P), Fingerpost, 4
Derryallen Road, Trillick, BT78 3RZ, 02889561735, 07764204410, fingerpostherefords@hotmail.co.uk
K McOscar, 'Oscar' (P), Island Farm, 35
Derrygonigan Road, Cookstown, BT80 8SU, 07711342003, kevinmcoscar@gmail.com
M Moore, 'Annaghbeg' (H/P), 51
Glassdrummond Road, Aughnacloy, BT69 6DE, 02885557317, 07966876575, mark-moore@hotmail.co.uk
R Morrow, 'Conduff' (P), 39 Rehaghey Road, Aughnacloy, BT69 6EU, 028 855 573600 AJ Patton, 'Roughan' (P), 45 Annaghilla Road, Roughan, Augher, BT77 0BS, 02885567443, 07827444014
R Pogue, 'Tullymore' (H/P), 54-58
Milltown Road, Benburb, Dungannon, BT71 7ND, 0283755 13/84, 07860402673, info@poguesoilsolutions.com
A Shaw, 'Benburb' (P), 17 Lisgobbin Road, Dungannon, BT71 7PT, 07711227782, alanshaw17@gmail.com N Shaw, 'Sessiagh' (P), 16a Lisgobban
Road, Dungannon, BT71 7PT, 0, 07966795243 - Dad, n4uelshaw@hotmail. co.uk
SH Stewart, 'Thornbank' (P), 22
Cavandarragh Road, Castlederg, BT81 7NZ
Northern Ireland Report On reviewing last years thoughts as Chairman I hoped for an increase in bulls sold in our Dungannon Sales, more headline prices and a better presence at our local events and shows. I still hope for these things in 2024! Both February & April Sales were unfortunately back on 2022s sales, dairy farmers still buy the majority of Hereford bulls in N.I., milk price fell from a high of over 50p/litre to below 30p/l, combined with wet and difficult conditions it didn’t
help with most breeders finding better trade at home. Our two main events had strong entries forward at both but with very contrasting weather and resulting crowds of spectators. Royal Ulster in May had great weather for the visitors to view the cattle which performed well in the later Interbreeds. The National Show at Clogher Valley started with drizzle and got to heavy rain before the end of judging, well done to the exhibitors at both events for bringing out cattle to look as well as possible. The herds competition results and BBQ was on Saturday 19th August at our farm. Thankfully after an awful wet night on Friday it stayed dry to allow 120 breeders and visitors to view the herd, participate in four classes of stockjudging and a clipping
demonstration. It was a great success and thanks to all who helped raise £4425 for Alzheimer’s UK. It’s always positive to see NI Genetics making their mark in GB. Joint UK Bull of the Year, Sire of the Year, the dam of the 11,000gns heifer calf at DGS, as well as a host of other prize winners all having been bred here. The 13 cattle that went to France in May last year, will hopefully be an opening for future exports direct to EU. Ever optimistic, by the time the journal comes out our February Sale will have happened and hopefully it yields new record prices, average and number sold! Good luck to all our members for the incoming year showcasing what N.I. Herefords have to offer both locally and further afield. Regards William
Clubs & Associations
MH Farms Ltd, 'Ringdufferin' (P), 81
152
Clubs & Associations
Northern Ireland Herd Competition The annual Northern Ireland Hereford Breeders association herds competition took place in mid August, with 25 herds entered it was a busy week for judge George Harvey from Harveybros Herefords, Scotland. The results were announced at the farm of NI Breed President William McMordie of the Solpoll herd based in Ballygowan, Co Down who hosted the open night to view his herd and a BBQ. A rare good evening brought out a great crowd with a clipping and grooming presentation by James Graham & Glenn Morton followed by a very competitive stockjudging competition kindly sponsored by United Feeds, with David Gibson acting as master judge. For the second year in succession the medium herds section produced both the overall and reserve best herds. Taking the top spot and his first Overall Herd win was Alan Shaws Benburb herd based in Dungannon, the judge was impressed with the consistency of females in the herd. Taking the reserve spot was Trevor Andrews Mountview herd based in Larne. As well as taking the reserve positive Mountview 1 Master was also best Autumn born bull calf a son of Dorepoll 1 Chinook. The large herd was won by the Lisrace herd owned by David Wilson, Magheraveely with the small herd won by Ian Browne’s Clogher Valley Herd John & William McMordie, Solpoll took first places in both heifer calf classes with Fabb 1 Top Prize daughter Starlet A5 winning
153 The spring born bull calf section was won by the McMordie Family Saintfield with River-Dale 1 Archie a son of Hollybush 1 Thor. Cave Hill Max was first in the stockbull class with his first crop of calves for Dungannon based Mark Moores Annaghbeg Herd. A new award this year was the judges choice which was awarded to the cow Umgola Sissy owned by Stephen Baxter, Armagh. The NIHBA would like to thank Flynn & Co Solicitors for their continued support of the herds competition and to Dunbia Meats for supplying the meat for the BBQ. They also wish to thank the McMordie family for all the hard work that went into hosting a very successful night. The proceeds raised on the night from the BBQ, ballot and an auction totalled a tremendous £4425.94 which was donated to Alzheimer’s UK.
Herd Competition Results Autumn Born Heifer Calf, 1st, Solpoll 1 Starlet A5, John & William McMordie; 2nd, Mountview 1 Midnight, Trevor Andrews; 3rd, Clogher Valley 1 Amber, Ian Browne
John Taggart; 3rd, Border Sentinel,
Autumn Born Bull Calf, 1st, Mountview 1 Master, Trevor Andrews; 2nd, Benburb 1 Alan, Alan Shaw; 3rd, Magheraknock Apollo, David Smyth
Small Herd, 1st, Clogher Valley,
Spring Born Heifer Calf, 1st, Solpoll 1 Starlet A15, John & William McMordie; 2nd, Benburb 1 Anna, Alan Shaw; 3rd, Kinnego 1 Ann, Ciaran Kerr
David Smyth Judges Choice, Umgola Sissy, Stephen Baxter
Ian Browne; 2nd, Glenmount, Jim & Ann Henning; 3rd, Glenside & Tullymore, Raymond Pogue Medium Herd, 1st, Benburb, Alan Shaw; 2nd, Mountview, Trevor Andrews; 3rd, Graceland, Robin Irvine Large Herd, 1st, Lisrace, David
Spring Born Bull Calf, 1st, RiverDale 1 Archie, McMordie Family; 2nd, Solpoll 1 Admiral, John & William McMordie; 3rd, Benburb 1 Applejack, Alan Shaw
Wilson; 2nd, Solpoll, John
Stockbull, 1st, Cave hill Max, Mark Moore; 2nd, Carney Hill 1 Sexton,
Reserve, Mountview, Trevor
Don’t miss out!
& William McMordie; 3rd, Magheraknock, David Smyth Overall, Benburb, Alan Shaw
Andrews
MOUNTVIEW POLLED HEREFORDS Andrews Family BULLS & HEIFERS FOR SALE SENIOR BULL KINGLEE 1 VICTORIOUS
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Best Autumn Bull Calf Reserve Overall Herd 2023 Contact Trevor on 07801 448939 Email trevorandrews67@btinternet.com Mountview House 18 Ballyfore Rd, Larne, Co. Antrim BT40 3NF Visitors always welcome
Clubs & Associations
autumn section with the spring section won by Starlet A15 a daughter of Solpoll 1 Promoter.
154
North Wales
Clubs & Associations
North wales
Club Information
Hereford Club
Groes Faen Bach, Holywell, Flintshire 07789 797639
G & E Mathews, 'Carneddau' (P)
1 Tyn y Coed, Gwydyr, Llanrwst eilldh.h@wernvets.co.uk
North Wales Hereford Club
M Lewis, 'Salbri' (H)
GH Morgan, 'Fardre' (P)
morganfardre@btconnect. com
GM Graham, 'Gazanna' (P)
Salbri, Amlwch, Ynys Mon 01407 710565 07769 653063 hereford@salbriherefords.co.uk
Fardre Farm, Abergele, Conwy 01745 833012 07712 861867 morganfardre@btconnect.com
H, D & CL Owen, 'Bodwyn' (P)
Cefn du lsaf, Gaerwen, Ynys Mon 07796 508322 01248 422692 manonangharad@hotmail.com
Anglesey Flintshire
Audrey Morgan 01745 833012
welshherefords.co.uk
'Hogia Bryn Awel' (P)
Conwy Denbighshire Werexham
Gwynedd
3 Meusydd LLydain, Bryniau Hendre Penrhyndeudraeth, Gwynedd, LL48 6EA 01407 720445 07771 538698
Dyfed
Club Information
Hereford Breeders’ Club L & L Bowen, 'Bowendu' (P)
Tydu Farm Nelson Treharris 07973 932773 01443 450314 adam@bowencontracting.co.uk
RA & AW Howell, 'Lundy' (P)
Greenway Cottage, Oxwich Green, Gower, Swansea 01792 390170 angelahowellflowerfairy@hotmail.co.uk
Dyfed Hereford Breeders' Club tombankfarm@aol.com
R,J and T Chinn, 'Celyn Fach' (P)
EJT James, 'Cleddau' (P)
Quarter Park, Martletwy, Pembs 07779 917185 suejames18S@gmail.com
Liz Roderick 01792 390389
D Gibby, 'Sarn' (P)
A John, 'Lax' (H)
welshherefords.co.uk
Hollybush Farm, Mathry, Pembrokeshire 01348 831825 tpchinn@hotmail.co.uk
Bethesda, Narberth, Pembs dafgibbs8@gmall.com
Messrs Griffiths, 'Penrhiwgoch' (H)
Lacques Fawr, Llanstephan, Carmarthen 01267 241244 anthonyjohnlax@hotmail.co.uk
R Morgan, 'Sancler' (H)
Penrhiwgoch, Ferryside, Carmarthenshire 01267 267044 07807 774336 ferrycabin@aol.com
Pentre Farm, St Clears, Carmarthen 07866 047174
The Hean Castle Estate, 'Hean' (P)
N Owens, 'Mairwen' (P)
The Estate Office, Saundersfoot, Pembs 01834 813538 07483 150253 david.burnhill@hean-castle-estate.com
Yr Hafod, Pontyberem, Llanelli, Carmarthen 07843 055888 nigelowens@wru.wales
LD & LL Powell, 'Brynheath' (P) Rhos Farm, Penpedaorheol, Mid Glamorgan. 07769 219379 rhosplastics@aol.com
E Rees, 'Trefochlyd' (P) Ceredigion
Trefochlyd Farm, Croesgoch, Pembs 07817 995903 euros@trefochlydpolledherefords.co.uk
OEM Jones & EM Roberts, 'Cynin' (H)
Penparc Farm, Llangynin, Carmarthenshire 01994 231460 07813 902380 elizabethmroberts@outlook.com
Pembrokeshire
Camarthenshire
AJ, AE & MG Thomas, 'Premier' (P)
Clyncemaes Farmhouse, Clarbeston Road, Pembrokeshire 07809 622168 premierpolledherefords@gmail.com
G Thomas, 'Church View' (P)
Church View, Mathry, Pembs 07811 356145 glynn_thomas@btinternet.com
TG, El & EN Thorne, 'Studdolph Glenvale Ashdale' (P)
Studdolph Hall, Milford Haven, Pembs. 01437 890240 ionwy.thorne@hotmail.co.uk
J Twose, 'Beca' (P)
TDJ Roderick, 'Brangwyn' (P)
Maenhir Farm, Login, Carmarthenshire. 07870 269738 josephtwose@hotmail.co.uk
DC Smith & Son, 'Laxfield' (H)
Bryneinon Fm, Pumsaint, Carmarthenshire. 01558 650200 bryneinon@aol.com
The Bank Farm, Scurlage Castle, Gower 01792 390389 tombankfarm@aol.com Blaenffynnon, Talog, Carmartheshire 01994 484765 07966 053606 s.701smith@btinternet.com
R Welch, 'Falcondale' (P)
Clubs & Associations
155
156
Clubs & Associations
Dyfed Hereford Breeders Report Our herd visit this year took us to the Santa Maria herd. A pre-sale visit with very good quality cattle and strong calves on offer. We would like to thank Tony Vasami and family for their kind hospitality and wishes them well with their future plans.
Show Results Welsh Herd of the year 1st George, Ionwy and Non Thorne, Glenvale/Studdolpph Runner up’s David Burnhill, Hean Castle Estate Congratulations to both herd and special thanks to Barbara and Bernie Rimmer for judging this competition. Well done and congratulations to The Studdolph/Glenvale herd who went on to win the national herd of the year and won for the second time. Congratulations to George, Ioway and Non.
Wales Multi breed calf Show 2022 The Multi breed calf show was held at Carmarthen Mart Saturday Dec 10th, 2022. There were 125 calves forward across 7 breeds the results of the Hereford Section are: Judge: Mr George Bowen (Hereford)
Heifer born October/November 2021, 1st Eifion James, Cleddau, 1 Miss Milly 5th; 2nd Eifion James, Cleddau 1 Amethyst Lottie 2nd; 3rd W & J Roderick, Brangwyn 1 Williow Bull Calf Jan /Feb 2022 1st J Lawrence & Sons, Brynside Harlow; 2nd W & J Roderick, Brangwyn 1 Wyndam; 3rd Eifion James, Cleddau 1 Cai Heifer born Jan/Feb 1st J Lawrence and Sons, Brynside Oyster lass; 2nd W&J Roderick, Brangwyn 1 Eunice Bull born March / April 2022 1st Messer’s Griffiths, Penrhiwgoch 1 DS Progress 632; 2nd W & J Roderick, Brangwyn 1 Waterlily; 3rd W&J Roderick, Brangwyn 1 Woolsey; 4th Messer’s Griffiths, Penrhiwgoch 1 DS Progress 630
Serin; 2nd Robert Morgan, Sancler Diadem 10 CHAMPION FEMALE J Lawrence & Sons, Brynside Oyster lass; Reserve Eifion James, Cleddau 1 Mari Seren CHAMPION MALE Messer’s Griffiths, Penrhiwgoch 1 DS Progress 632; Reserve Male Byrnside Harlow Overall, Champion J Lawrence and sons, Byrnside Oyster Lass; Reserve Eiffion James, Cleddau 1 Mari Seren
Local Show Points 2023 Show herd of the year Mr Rob Morgan, Sancler Herd Show Female of the year Sancler Plum
Heifer born March/April 1st Robert Morgan, Sancler Plum 320; 2nd Messer’s Penrhiwgoch, 1 DS Polly 620; 3rd Peter Williams, Rectory silk2nd; 4th W&J Roderick, Brangwyn 1 Wags
Show Bull of the year Glenvale 1 Golden Guy
Heifer born after May 2022 1st Eifion James, Cleddau 1 Mari
Still Awaiting results
Results of the Dyfed Herefords Breeders Herd Competition
157 Congratulation to our young handlers Mr Eifion James and Miss Cerys Jenkins Cerys went on to win the Champion young handler and the Dendor show stick at Tenbury show.
AGM
Dyfed Herd of the year Results With special thank you to Alyson and Richard Tucker Charolais Breeders from Gower for judging this year competition.
Our AGM was held on October 17th, 2023, at the White Lion Hotel The new committee: Chairman Mr Paul Griffith’s, Penrhiwgoch Herefords Vice Chairman Mr Ian James, Cleddau Herefords
Show Herd of the year
Treasurers Ionwy and NonThorne
San Cler, Rob Morgan
Secretary Liz Roderick, Brangwyn Herefords
Show Female Sancler Plum
Presidents Anwen and Alun Thomas, Premier Herefords
Show Male Glenvale 1 Golden Guy
LAXFIELD HEREFORDS ESTABLISHED 1972 LAXFIELD SILVER 12th(AI) by
Nuelands Juror ex Laxfield Silver 11th. Original Population Hereford embryos from Laxfield Silver 12th were exported at the beginning of 2023 to American breeders Steven Pollestad of Pollestad Herefords, North Dakota, and Tom Sparks of Plevna Herefords, Montana. Both breeders have been keen to introduce these genetics into their herds, which are run under tough environmental conditions, to help improve the fleshing ability, conformation and breed character of their cattle. Traits for which the original population Herefords are renowned.
SIRES USED 2023 – LAXFIELD WILBERFORCE, LAXFIELD VICTORY, LAXFIELD KEEGAN, ANHAY BY AI – WESTON TOPPER, BOYCEFIELD CONGO, HAVEN GREAT HEART
PORTHOSTOCK.
EXPORT QUALITY SEMEN FOR SALE FROM LAXFIELD JEFFERSON AND LAXFIELD SILVERADO
Members of Biobest Hi Health Herdcare Cattle Health Scheme. Many thanks to all our customers - visitors always welcome. Well-bred, hardy cattle of the true Hereford type from long established bloodlines usually for sale. D C SMITH & SON (TALOG), BLAENFFYNNON, TALOG, CARMARTHEN SA33 6PA
TEL: 01994 484765
MOB: 07966 053606 www.laxfieldherefords.co.uk find us on facebook
Email: s.701smith@btinternet.com
Clubs & Associations
Young Handlers
Clubs & Associations
158
owys Powys
Club Information
Hereford Breeders’ Club HJ Cloke 'Lord Harvey’s' (P)
DL Gatehouse, 'Caecottrell' (H)
Glenllwyd, Brecon 01874 636674
Cae Cotterall, Llangorse, Brecon 01874 658302 brynlygatehouse@yahoo.co.uk
VB Collins, 'Kathlea' (P)
FG Goodall, 'Glenrose' (P)
The Paddocks, Upper Kathlea, Abergavenny
Powys Hereford Breeders' Club gpritcharf@gmail.com
A & G Crow, 'Rhydri' (P)
Glyntywarach, Babel, Llandovery 01550 720649 barrygoodall63@googlemail.com
07903 021680
PE Holtrop, 'Glyn' (P)
welshherefords.co.uk
A Davies, 'Gelll' (P)
Glyn Farm, Painscastle, Builth Wells 01497 851622 peterholtrop@btinternet.com
Pantglas Farm, Rudry, Caerphilly 02920 747720 gillian@crowmarketing.co.uk
Gelli Farm, Hirwaun, Aberdare 01685 811705 alungwynd@hotmail.com
PH James, 'Crossfoot' (H/P)
Crossfoot Farm, Clyro, Herefordshire 01497 820145 crossfootherefords@eral.net
I Davies, 'Creinog' (P)
Meity lsaf, Trecastle, Brecon 01874 638889 iwandaviesmeity@hotmail.com
WS Jones & Son, 'Tyn-Y-Coed' (P) Tyn-y-Coed Farm, Bonvilston, Cardiff 01446 781256 hello@tyn-y-coed-lodge.com
JH Evans & Son, 'Bwlchllyn' (P) Dollys Farm, Llanidloes 01686 412694 evansdollys@pc-q.net
DE ED & AL Jones 'Dendor' (P)
Gwastadgoed, Caersws, Powys dendorherefords@btinternet.com
J Lawrence and sons, 'Brynside' (H)
Bryn Farm, Glascoed, Usk, Monmouthshire 07949110201 mathlawrence7@gmail.com
C Lewis & P Parfit, 'Hirfynydd' (P)
Rhys-y-pwllau Farm, Seven Sisters, Neath. 01634 701321 cerysannlewis@outlook.com
JD Phillips, 'Onnen' (H)
Nantyronnen, Sennybridge, Brecon 01874 636677
L & A Price, 'Tynllyne' (P)
Tynllyne, Llanigon, Hay on Wye 01497 847342 tynllyne@outlook.com
G Pritchard, 'Aber-Llia' (P)
The Sidings, Railway Goods Yard, Station Houses, Tirphhil, New Tredegar, Caerphilly 07903 021680 gpritcharf@gmail.com
T Pritchard, 'Berthllwyd' (P)
Springfield, Hirwaun Rd, Hirwaun, Rhondda Cynon Taff 01685 814582
G & S Pryce, 'Anroch' (P)
48 Cardiff Rd, Dinas Powys, Vale of Glamorgan 02920 515090 pryce48@hotmail.com
Powys
T Small, 'Camlais' (P)
17 Llys Pencrug, Llandeilo, Carmarthen toby.small@breconbeacons.org
L Smith, 'Bwllfa' (P)
Bwllfa Farm, Cwmdare, Aberdare 01685 870990 lukeandwilliam@yahoo.co.uk
Mrs HC Thomas, 'Rosecott' (P)
No 1 Rose Cottage, Verity Court, Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan 07874 919227 helenchristinethomas@hotmail.com
KTJ Vater & LJ Garratt, 'Vater' (H)
Monmouthshire
Neath Swansea
C/O JCA Vater & Son, Mill Farm, Abergavenny 01873 840562 lindagarratt@brooksplace.wanadoo.co.uk
IT Williams, 'Scalding' (P)
Bridgend
Scalding, Llyswen, Brecon 01982 560208 ivorthomaswilliams@gmail.com
TDR Williams, 'Windycreek' (P)
Glamorgan
Plaswarren, Clyro, Herefordshire 01497 851642
159
Powys Club Report
June took us to The Royal Three Counties show and the National Hereford stock judging competition. This year the club entered three teams; the first time this has been done.
Novice team: Neil and Nathaniel Johnson, Rhydir Herefords Shannon Lawrence, Brynside Herefords.
Youth team: Adam Bowen, Bowendu Herefords Ethan Brook, Forgefield Hereford Caleb Vater, Krislin Herefords
Many members took part in various shows throughout the country during the summer with some excellent results. All your hard work, dedication and enthusiasm are a credit to the breed. This years Powys Hereford Herd of the Year competition was judged by Bernard and Barbara Rimmer, Barben Herefords, Lancashire. This year’s winner was Helen Thomas and Bob Pembridge, Rosecott Herefords, Cowbridge. Behind the Rosecott herd, saw the Lawrence family, Brynside Hereford, Monkswood, snap up second place.
Matt & Shannon Lawrence of Brynside Herefords runner up in the Herd competition.
Thank you for taking part and looking after the judges, it is very much appreciated. Our annual BBQ and herd visit was kindly hosted by the Bowen family, Bowendu Herefords, Nelson. A great day was had by all who attended, and many comments were made regarding the impressive show of cattle and the welcome we were given. A huge thanks to the Bowen family who could not do enough and made the organisation of the day straight forward. Hopefully this year’s RWAS Winter Fair will see a few more Hereford on display because as a club we feel that this is the shop window to showcase how Herefords can be produced on an exclusive grass diet. The club committee would like to thank everyone for their support throughout the year and hope it continues into the future.
Senior team: Edward Mills, Severnvale Herefords Helen Macloed, Carpenters Herefords Glenn Pritchard, Aberllia Herefords We were delighted when our youth team were placed 4th and our novice team 3rd, a fantastic achievement. Well done and thank you for taking part.
Clubs & Associations
This year’s activities kicked off as usual with our AGM in May. Quite a few topics were discussed, and all officers were re-elected. We had our promotional stand at the Royal Welsh spring festival where we had a great uplift in membership. A special thanks must go to Matt Lawrence and family for providing a cow and calf for our stand.
Some of our stock judging winners.
Helen Thomas and Bob Penbrige of Rosecott Herefords winners of the Herd competition.
160
Clubs & Associations
Scottish
Club Information
Hereford Breeders’ Association Healthy Cattle in Real Cattle Country W Andrew, 'Arranview' (H/P), Oaklea, Auchincruive, Ayr KA6 5HS Tel: 01292 521067 Mob: 07785 721330 J A Cameron & Son, 'Baldinnie' (P), Balbuthie, Kilconquhar, Leven, Fife KY9 1EX Tel: 01333 730210 Email: fifefarming@gmail.com
J M Cant & Partners, 'Panmure' (P), Easter Knox, Arbirlot, Arbroath, Angus DD11 2PZ Tel: 01241 871660 Mob: 07974 705430 Email: easterknox@btinternet.com
cotland
Philip Close, 'Balsar' (H), Littleton Farm, Turnberry, Girven, KA26 9JS Mob: 07773 463 776 Email: clop20@aol.com
AJ & IM Dunbar, 'Greenford' (P), Greenford, Old Meldrum, Aberdeenshire AB51 0HB Tel: 01651 872040 Office: 01651 872888 Mob: 07831273664 Email: sales@grampian-steel.co.uk
G and M Dunbar, 'Drumboy' (P), Springholm, Drumclog, Strathaven, Lanarkshire, Tel: 01357 440544 Gavin Dunbar: 07892715465
Rockness Livestock, Peter Eccles 'Rockness' (P), Carlaverock Farm, Tranent,
Scottish Hereford Breeders' Association margaret.stewart123@btinternet. com
Secretary Margaret Galbraith 07706 237524
East Lothian, Tel: 01875 610266 Mob: 07503 925917 Email: rocknessherefords@icloud.com
M Galbraith, 'Craigdhu' (P), Millmoor Farm, Sandilands, Lanark ML11 9TW Mob: 07706 237524 Email: margaret.stewart123 @btinternet.com R Hamilton & I Lammie, 'Long House' (H), Longhouse Farm, Cumnock, East Ayrshire KA18 3EU Mob: 07816 900 827 Email: rosemaryhamilton81@gmail.com
G & S Harvey, 'Harveybros' (P), 100
GD & MR Poyser, 'Coxon' (P), Cummerton Farm, Pennan New Aberdour, Fraserburgh, Grampian AB43 6JE Tel: 01346 561 444 Email: martin.posyer@gmail.com
Ian Skea, 'Bennachie' (P), Glenbervie, Dalriach, Kemnay, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire AB51 5LP, Mob: 07506 157 480
Buchanan Street Balfron, Glasgow G63 0TQ, Tel: 01360 440504 George: 07810 807824 Sophie: 079 844 52306 Email: george-harveybros@outlook.com
D & S Smith & Son, 'Milovaig' (P) & 'Torovaig' (H), Ballochneil Cottage,
J O Hodge, 'Fellowhills' (P), Horndean,
Mr Calum Smith, 'Milovaig' (P),
Berwick-Upon-Tweed TD15 1XN Tel: 01289 3826678 Mob: 07967 643129
Catherine & Martin Kewley, East Tinwald, Lochmaben, Locherbie DG11 1RS Email cathkewley@btinternet.com Telephone: 01387 810342 Janice Laird 'St. Clements Wells' (P), St Clements Wells Farm, Wallyford ,East Lothian EH21 8QN Tel: 01316 692584 Mob: 07850 226994
Kenny Lang, 'Wellhead' (H), Wellhead Farm, Cleghorn, Lanark ML11 7SW Tel: 01555 870 223 Mob: 07843 605 861 Email: a-lang@btconnect.com
Mr James Logan, 'Galawater' (H/P), Romavale, Denholm, Hawick, Roxburghshire TD9 8SZ Mob: 07771 526936 Email: jim@romavale.com
Messrs Mitchell, 'Knowehead' (H/P), Knowehead Farm, Sorn, Mauchline, Ayrshire KA5 6JJ Tel: 01290 553646 Email: mitchell.hillbilly@gmail.com
David Morrison 'Falaknowe' (P), North Falaknowe, Coldingham, Eyemouth TD14 5TZ Tel: 01361 840 257 Mob: 07766 406 042 Email: david@jamesbrownandco.com
Turnberry, Ayrshire KA26 9NE, Tel: 01655 331796 Mob: 07710 570944 sheena.smith331@gmail.com
Ballochneil Cottage, Turnberry KA26 9NE Email: calumsmith0792@gmail.com Tel: 07538083338
Andrew & Serena Sykes, 'Kileekie' (Traditional Horned), Kileekie, Crosshill, Maybole, Ayrshire KA19 7PY Tel: 01655 740510 Mob: 07798 622879 Email: andrew_sykes@msn.com
Molly Stuart, 'Glenlivet' (P), Lettoch Farm, Braes of Glenlivet, Ballindalloch, Banffshire AB37 9JQ, Tel: 01807 590 242 Email: kelly.lettoch@gmail.com J B Torrance, 'Knowetop' (P), Knowetop Farm, Quarter, Hamilton ML3 7XQ Tel: 01698 284268 Mob: 07957 149943 W, P & K Wason, 'Saltire' (P), Redwells Farm, Kinglassie, Lochgelly, Fife KY5 0UD, Tel: 01592 881740 Mob: 07779 591447 Email: saltireherefords@btinternet.com Mr Iain Wilkinson, 'Redstroke' (H/P), Balgay Farm House, Inchture, Perth. PH14 9QH, Mobile: 0775 9494 401 Email: iainwilk10@gmail.com
J R B Wilson & Sons, 'ROMANY' (P), Cowbog, Kelso, Borders TD5 8EH Tel: 01573 440273 / 01573 440278 Mob: 07980 253496 Email: cowbog@aol.com
Other members have volunteered to help organise events held throughout the forthcoming year.
Kicking off 2023 with our AGM held at United Auctions Bull sales in February, the event saw four Hereford bulls take to the sales ring. Of these, Fellowhills 1 Whisky sold for 4000gns and behind him as the top selling Hereford was Craigdhu 1 Victor for 3500gsn.
This year we attended the Scottish Beef Event at Dalswinton Estate in the Nith Valley, Dumfriesshire. Kenny Adams of Torhousekie Farm, Wigton kindly brought along his Hereford cross cattle which were impressive and both him and his son stayed to give feedback to anyone interested in what they were doing with the breed and what their aims were for their future with Herefords. We found our summer and autumn shows to be a great success this year with cattle numbers up. It was great so see a good number of our Scottish members showing and attending the shows. It is always great to catch up and chat endlessly about Herefords.
The selection for top table remained the same seeing George Harvey re-elected as Chairman, Jimmy Hodge vice chairman and Margaret Galbraith holding position as secretary/treasurer.
Breed-plan plan Breed ed cord ReRecorded r sale o f s l l BuBulls for sale
The Royal Highland Show was no exception. The supreme champion went to Coley 1
161
Vincent from L Jackson-Carr and reserve supreme going to Spartan 1 Victoria’s Secret from SC and GL Hartwright. We were especially delighted at winning the interbreed native group of three championship. There was fierce competition but, in my mind, the Herefords really stood out! On a personal note, this was the first year I showed at the RHS. It lived up to its expectations and more. As a child I always dreamt of taking part in the grand parade in the main ring. Apart from having a job holding onto the beast the feeling was phenomenal. I am also happy to say Margaret Cameron, our president, accompanied by her husband John were also in attendance at the judging ring. It was great to see them both. Our Hereford tent was also well attended throughout the Show and always delighted to see friends and farmers alike for a cuppa and a chat.
Panmure PANMURE
Panmure 1 Alexander Panmure 1 Alexander
Junior Male and Reserve Male Champion
Junior Male and Reserve Male Champion at AgriExpo at AgriExpo
Junior Male andJunior Reserve Junior Champion Junior Male and Reserve Champion at Stars of the Future
M em Mbe erm s obers of Hi-H Hi-Hfe alth ealt h S c h eme Sche me
Panmure 1 Plum W1
Panmure 1 Plum W1 Female Champion Scottish National Show Female Champion Scottish National Reserve Junior Female at Show Royal Highland Show Reserve Junior Female at Royal Highland Show
at Stars of the Future Thanks to all our customers
Thanks to all of our customers J.M Cant & Partners
J.M Cant & Partners
Easter Knox Farm, Arbirlot, Arbroath, Angus DD11 2PZ
Audrey:- 01241 871660 Mob:- 07974705430 Email:- easterknox@btinternet.com
Easter Knox Farm, Arbirlot, Arbroath, Angus DD11 2PZ
Audrey:- 01241 871660 Mob:- 07974705430
Email:- easterknox@btinternet.com
Clubs & Associations
Scottish Herefords Secretary’s Report
162
Clubs & Associations
Our National Show was held at Perth Show this year with Iain Wilkinson tasked with judging. Overall female champion went to – Panmure 1 Plum W1 and reserve Drumboy 1 Sophia. Overall male champion and supreme champion Coley 1 Vincent & Junior male champion and overall supreme reserve champion went to Harveybros 1 Willy-the Womanizer. Willy then went on to be sold at the Autumn sale in Shrewsbury for 9000gns. At the end of our National Show, Robert Parker, our Herd Competition Judge for this year presented Iain Wilkinson, with the Overall winner of our Herd competition. Congratulations to Iain.
2023 Farm Visit What a fantastic day we had at Fellowhills and Rulesmains. The weather was kind to us, and we were provided with a beautiful lunch at Fellowhills. We walked down through the farm to the next field to see Jimmy and Fiona’s Hereford Herd. There was a lot to see and a lot to take in and think about. Both Jimmy and his brother Andrew being from dairy backgrounds require cows to have plenty of milk to feed their calves and breed with this in mind. It’s important to them that they work on breeding what todays’ farmers are looking for too. This being good feet, legs, size, width, depth and no high or narrow tailheads. The farms are about 20 minutes apart and we stopped off to see Jimmy's heifers on the way. There were quite a few and if only I had taken the trailer! It’s a beautiful part of the countryside and both
brothers grow wheat, barley, OSR and peas. While Fellowhills has a large herd of Pedigree Herefords, Andrew has 110 pedigree Aberdeen Angus and Emma, Andrew’s daughter, has a small herd of very good quality Herefords. With Emma’s ambition I’m sure this will grow in size in no time. Both Jimmy and Andrew would be delighted to let anyone see around their stock as long as Andrew is not itching to get on with the harvest! SHBA would like to thank both Hodge Families for giving us the time and energy to look around. I want to give a shout out to our young members Molly Stuart, Molly, Hope and Maisie Poyser, Lottie & Henry Wilson for showing this year and promoting The Scottish Hereford Breed in Scotland. You are our future. As always, a big thanks goes to the hard-working staff at Hereford House for their support during the year. Personally, I would also like to thank Fiona Hodge and Cath Kewley for their work in the background. Without you, things would not run as smoothly as they do. Any suggestions from our members of visits or event they wish to be organised please do not hesitate to contact our Chairman, Vice Chairman or Secretary. SHBA is looking forward to 2024!
Results Heifer Calf – Gavin Dunbar - Drumboy Bull Calf – Jimmy Hodge - Fellowhills Stock Bull - Iain Wilkinson - Redstroke Small Herd – Peter Eccles - Rockness Large Herd – Iain Wilkinson – Redstroke
BALDINNIE POLL HEREFORDS SAC Premium Cattle Health Scheme Bulls and Heifers Always Available
Baldinnie females
Baldinnie 1 Carlin
John and Margaret Cameron Balbuthie, Kilconquhar, Leven, Fife KY9 1EX. Tel: 01333 730210 • Email: j.cameron@farming.co.uk
MANY THANKS TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS
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Clubs & Associations
South of England
Club Information
Hereford Breeders' Association
South of England Hereford Breeders' Association
"Some of the leading herds in the country are in our area and the below mentioned breeders would be delighted to see you. A prior appointment would be appreciated."
sehbasecretary@gmail.com
Tom Hewitt, Potkiln Herd (P), Field
Berkshire R. Snelling, Sarabande Herefords (P), Long Meadow, Shurlock Row, Reading RG10 0PL. Tel: 01189 343323 Mobile: 07976 692543
Buckinghamshire
southofengland herefords.co.uk
Jason & Priscilla Miller, Weybrook (P), Sherborne St John, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG24 9LH Tel: 01256 850083 Email: jasonandcil@hotmail.co.uk
D. Briggs, Blackwell Herd (P), Blackwell
Isle Of Wight
Farm, Latimer, Chesham, Bucks HP5 1TN. Tel: 01494 762190. Email: farm@davidbriggs.com
M & J Morris, Parkdown Herefords (P), Apesdown Farm, Rowridge Lane,
Calbourne, Isle of Wight, PO30 4HS. South of England Tel: 01983 531234/07791 537890
Gloucester
M.L. & D.J. Jenkins, Appleridge Herd (P), Appleridge Farm, Hystfield, Stone,
Email: mikedm.whitelane@gmail.com
H.B. Angel & Sons (John Angel), Lockreds (P), Locks Farm, Locksgreen,
Berkeley, Gloucestershire GL13 9LJ. Tel: 01453 511635. Mobile: 07785 388408 Email: martinljenkins@aol.com
Porchfield, Nr Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 4PF Tel: 07973 601634, 01983 522678 Email: locksgreengarage@gmail.com
Hampshire M. Osmond, Broadgate Herd (P), Gastons Farm, Five Bells Lane, Nether Wallop, Stockbridge, Hampshire, SO20 8EN Tel: 07970 484 677 Email: contact@gastonsfarm.com
Julian Neagle & Sarah Taylor, Velmore Herd (P), 1 Velmore Farm Cottages, Bournemouth Road, Chandlers Ford, Hampshire, SO53 3HF. Tel: 07736 830536 Email: jneagle@tiscali.co.uk T Yaldren, Banjos (P), Long Park Farm, Long Park, Crawley, Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 2QE 07850024412 Email: longparkfarm@hotmail.com
Surrey Nigel, Ann & Tim Metson, Coverwood Herd (P), The Old Farmhouse, Coverwood Farm, Peaslake Road, Ewhurst, Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 7NT. Tel: 01306 731101 Email: farm@coverwoodlakes.co.uk
B., H. & M. Myers, Boundless Herd (P),
Kent
Boundless Farm, Boundless Road, Brook, Nr. Godalming, Surrey GU8 5LF. Tel: 01428 683077.
S.I. Purchese, Lynsore Herd (P), Court
M.J. Burton, Westgate Herd (P),
Lodge Farm, Manns Hill, Bossingham, Nr. Canterbury, Kent CT4 6EB. Tel: 01227 709330 Email: soniapurchese@yahoo.co.uk
Jan Boomaars, Vexour Herd (P), Hampkins Hill Road, Chiddingstone, Kent, TN8 7BB 01883 653064 07500706695 www.vexour.com Email: mart1nsal@yahoo.co.uk
Charlie Basley, Phantom Herd (P), Landway Farm, Basted Lane, Crouch, Kent, TN15 8PY Tel: 01732 886002 Fax: 01732 887466 Email: enquiries@ghostmotors.co.uk
Stumblehole Farm, Leigh Surrey, RH2 8PY. Tel: 01293 862607
Sussex R. Hutchings, Fisher Herd (P), Fisher Farm, South Mundham, Chichester, West Sussex PO20 1ND. Tel: 01243 262252. Mobile: 07881 944394
Nick Wren, Cathedral Herd (P), Cedars Leggatts Farm, Old Park Lane, Chichester, West Sussex PO18 8AP Tel: 01243 572732 Fax: 01243 576899 Email: Nick@scarterfields.co.uk
Wiltshire Michael Clark, Lowesmoor Herd (P), 4 Hyam Cottages, Bristol Road, Malmesbury, SN16 0RA 07929637573 01666823732 mikeclaklowesmoor@btinternet.com
Bucking hamshire
Gloucestershire
Secretary Nick Williams 07977135624
House, Hursley, Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 2LE 01962 775203 07803165333 Email: hewitttom@hotmail.com
Oxfordshire
Mr & Mrs M G S Gibson, Stitchcombe Herd (P), Durnsford Mill House, Mildenhall,
Greater London
Marlborough, SN8 2NG. Tel: 07850 859824. Email: hello@grovefarmstitchcombe.co.uk
Berkshire
Wiltshire Surrey
Kent
Hampshire
West Sussex
East Sussex
JR JK & RJ Pike, Bromham Herd (P), Mrs J Pike, Durlett Farm, Bromham, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 2HY. Tel: 01380 850412/ 07891 386484, richardjohnpike@icloud.com
R Edwards & E Smith, Classic Herd (P), Westfield, 31 Malmesbury Road, Leigh, Isle of White
Swindon, Wiltshire, SN6 6RH 07772495913 07979496365 premiercattleservices@gmail.com
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South of England I feel it’s a privilege to have been elected as Chairman of The South of England Hereford Breeders Association. I am relatively new to Hereford breeding but came into it for their docility and ease of handling. We show our cattle which gives us the opportunity to meet so many other breeders from around our area and further afield, many of those who have been happy to give advice.
Herd Competition This year’s herd competition was judged by Pete Cobley of the renowned Kinglee herd. Although not the original judge, Pete stood in at late notice due to illness. He had the challenge of getting through a large number of herds around the South of England, but thanks to his logistical background manage to complete his visits in a week. Week would like to give Pete a big thank you for his time and taking on the task.
Workshop The UK Hereford Youth staged a workshop at Spartan Herefords organised by Emma Edwards, Classic Herefords. It was good to see a substantial number of SEHBA youth attending this event. I would like to thank Luke Murphy of the Spartan herd and Emma for their time and for hosting this event.
Agm – Herd Visit This year’s AGM held at the Hurtwood Inn and was followed by a herd visit to the Coverwood Herd and butchery. The herd visit was conducted by Tim Metson who showed how they have been using direct drilling system to improve the quality of their pastures, which suits their system and the Hereford type. They use the pedigree Hereford for beef which they put through their own butchery and sell directly to the public via a highgrade burger van which they take to special events, also they supply restaurants and have their own out lets in shops. Big thanks to Nigel,
Clubs & Associations
Chairman
Group on herd visit Ann and Tim Metson for hosting this event.
Shows It has been a busy year this year from the SEHBA show herds with several new herds attending shows across our area, which is great to see. The SEHBA hosted a BBQ at Edenbridge and Oxted show which was a great success with many members and families turning up. Hopefully we can repeat again this year.
Awards Evening This was at a new venue this year. The Pheasant at Hungerford. Pete Cobley attended and gave his
summery of the herds that he visited and awarded the trophies accordingly.
Moving Forward This year we are looking forward to having informative evening herd visits to compliment our annual herd visit. This year hopefully the SEHBA show teams can build on last year’s successes.
Committee I would like to thank Nick Williams, Martin Jenkins, Michael Clark, Julian Neagle, Luke Murphy, and Martin Salmon for their continued help through the year.
Herd Competition Results Thanks to our herd judge this year Pete Cobley
12–15-month-old bull: Boundless 1 Waldo: B Myers
Large herd class, 1st Place, B Myers, Boundless; 2nd place, S.C & G.L Hartwright, Spartan; 3rd Place, G Staples, Highridge
Best spring bull calf: Lowesmoor 1 Apollo: M Clark
Medium herd class, 1st Place, R Hutchings, Fisher Herd; 2nd Place, J Boomaars, Vexour Herd; 3rd Place, M Jenkins, Appleridge Herd
Best cow & calf: Fisher 1 Eva 433 & Calf Fisher 1 Archer: R Hutchings
Small herd class, 1st place, D Thurman, Brambles herd; 2nd Place, M Clark, Lowesmoor herd; 3rd place, N Wren, Cathedral
Best spring heifer calf: Brambles Splendour: D Thurman
Cindy Hewlett Trophy for the Judge’s Choice Award: Lynsore 1 Empress 23rd & her calf South of England Hereford of the Year 2023: Spartan 1 voyager S and G hartwright
Overall winner: Bromham trophy, B Myers– Boundless Herd
Stockman of the Year: Luke Murphy
Warehead Cup for the best stock bull: Vexour 1 Percy: B Myers
Brodnyx Trophy for best young handler: Iona day
Best 12-15 month heifer: Spartan 1 Jen 4th: S.C & G.L Hartwright
The Wilson Quaiche, For services to the association: Micheal Clark
Lincoln Rose Bowl for best
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Clubs & Associations
South Western
Hereford Association Cornwall
Mr & Mrs Phillip Caunter Hollystone Herd (P), Stonehills Farm, Washbourne,
F.C & F.J. & R.P. Hawke Nanscient, Hustyn & Breock Herds (H), Hustyn
Totnes, Devon. TQ9 7UA, Tel: 01803 732621/07971733451 Email: ccaunter@btinternet.com
Farm, Burlawn, Wadebridge, Cornwall PL27 7LD, Tel: 01208 815834
Mrs Anna Pascoe-Old, Venen Herd (H), Cannalidgey Villa, St Issey, Wadebridge, Cornwall PL27 7RB Mob: 07834 955665 Email: venen_herefords@outlook.com
Mr & Mrs J Olds, Dowran Herd (H), Dowran Far, Dowran, St Just, Penzance, Cornwall TRI9 7RS, Tel: 01736 788736 Email: john.olds@btinternet.com
RWJ & MM Williams, Anhay Herd (H), Anhay, St Martin, Helston, Cornwall TR12 6DY Mob: 07737 492235, Email: pollyandaj@btinternet.com
Cornwall TR12 6HX Tel: 07939 983477 Email: jo.compton@hotmail.com
Youldon Farm, Pancrasweek, Holsworthy, Devon. EX22 7JT Mob: 07968 204957 Email: samuel-w-c-m@outlook.com
shelleylockett@icloud.com
Mr M Goddard, Bryony Herd (P), Bryony
herefordsouthwest.com
Mr Stuart Luxton, Chamberlains Herd (P) Chamberlains Farm, Brampford Speke, Exeter EX5 5DR Tel: 01392 841094 Mob: 07889 879596 Email: stuart@stuartluxton.co.uk
Mr & Mrs Jack Burgess, Clarence Herd (H), Way Cottage, Way Farm, Shillingford, Tiverton, Devon, EXl6 9BD Mob: 07483 816300 Email: jburgess@dsfire.gov.uk
AG, LE & AA Gifford Twilight Herd (H) Starline Herd (P), Whitebear Farm, Milton
Farm, Stithians, Truro, Cornwall TR3 7AN Tel: 01209 861338 Email: Odette172@gmail.com
Damerel, Holsworthy, Devon EX22 7NZ Tel: 01409 261284, Mob: 07799 261634, Email: gifford.whitebear@gmail.com
Mrs M Vague (Gwel An Mor herd) Lower Tredore, St Issey, Wadebridge, Cornwall PL27 7QS Tel: 07472 998868 Email: Shelleylockett@icloud.com
Mr Stuart White, Meadowduke Herd (P), Summer Farm, Witheridge, Tiverton, Devon EX16 8NZ Mobile: 07885 331026 Email: stuart@meadowduke.com
F J Wood & Sons, Allwood Herd (P), Place Barton, Morleigh, Totnes Devon TQ9 7JN Mob: Gerald: 07721 068181 Email: ameliajwood@aol.com
Miss Ellen Layzell, Farmlay Herd (H), Bywood Farmhouse, Dunkeswell, Honiton, Devon EX14 4SS Mobile : 07713 465218 Email: ellenklayzell@gmail.com Miss Penny Shepherd, Alston Herd (P), Alston Farm, Marlborough Kingsbridge, Devon TQ7 3BJ Mobile: 07969 750229 Email: alstoncampsite@hotmail.com
Devon Gloucester
Mr Jamie Palmer, Rolster Bridge Herd (P), Rolster Bridge Farm, Harbertonford Devon TQ9 7SS Tel: 01803 732265 Mob:07595959363 Email: jpalmer1985@hotmail.co.uk
Wiltshire
Miss Jenna Plume, Bickm Herd (P), Oak Park Farm, Rackenford, Tiverton, Devon EX16 8ER Email: jenna.stimpson@yahoo.co.uk Tel: 07921 296340
Dorset Mr & Mrs Les Gould, Baybridge Herd (P), Lower Breach Farm, West Orchard,
Somerset
Cornwall
Secretary Shelley Lockett 07472 998868
Hill Farm, Winkleigh, Devon EX19 8SW, Tel: 01837 83647, Email: martin@silverlineuk.co.uk
Miss O Eddy, Hendra Herd, Hendra
Devon
South Western Hereford Association
E & C Merchant, Smallbrook Herd (P),
South West
Miss Jo Compton, Landrivick Herd (P), Landrivick Farm, Manaccan, Helston,
Club Information
Dorset
Shaftesbury SP7 0L Tel: 01258 472417 Email: gould121@btinternet.com
Mr M J Harris, Hilfield Herd (H), Dowerfield Farm, Long Bredy Dorchester, Dorset DT2 9AB Tel: 01308 482837 / 07974 810806 Email: mjharris.remedy@btinternet.com
167 Miss K Rolls, Woodclose Herd (P), Wood Close Farm, Pear Ash Lane, Penselwood Somerset BA9 8LX, Tel: 01747 841233, Email:katherine_rolls@hotmail.com
Mr & Mrs PA & PM Earley, Spyway Herd (P), Spyway Farm, Langton Matravers, Swanage, Dorset BH19 3HG Tel: 01929 422468, Mob: 07940 832587 Email: spywayfarm@hotmail.co.uk
Mr William Awan, Midford Herd (P), The Conifers, Old Midford Road, , Southstoke, Bath, Somerset, BA2 7DQ Mob: 07527 112409 Email: williamawan@hotmail.co.uk
Taunton, Somerset TA4 2DR Tel: 01398 331247 Email: Alexandercfraser@gmail.com
Somerset
Mr Mark Voss, Stockbridge Herd (P),
South Glos
Mr & Mrs Keith Prettejohn Nicholashayne Herd (P), Nicholashayne Farm, Sampford Arundel, Wellington, Somerset TA21 9QY Email: agk66@live.co.uk Tel: 01884 849121, Mob: 07973 452403
Mr J & Mrs R Moorhouse, Cato Herd (P), James Barton, Stogumber, Taunton, Somerset, TA4 3TL Tel: 01984 656292 Email: info@catopollherefords.com
Mr M & D Lury, Castlewood Herd (P), Oakleaf Herd (H), Castle Farm, Buckland St Mary, Nr Chard, Somerset TA203JX Tel: 01460 234394 Email: marcus@lury.co.uk
Stockbridge Farm, Hinton, St George, Somerset, TA17 8TN. Tel: 07778 365012, Email: stockbridgefarm@gmail.com
Mr & Mrs Ian Tucker, Park Corner Herd (P), Higher Wick Farm, Maidencroft Lane, Wick Glastonbury, Somerset, BA6 8JN, Tel: 01458 834841, Mob: 07968118537
Miss Elisabeth Pierce Lillibeth Herd (P), Staple Cross Farm, Hockworthy , Wellington, Somerset TA21 0NL Mob: 07808 874274, Email: elisabethpierce09@gmail.com
RL Jones & Sons (Richmonds Herd) Richmond Farm, Wiveliscombe, Taunton, Somerset TA4 2AE Tel: 01984 623374 Email: Richmondfarm@gmail.com Alexandra Fraser (South Haddon Herd) South Haddon Farm, Skilgate,
Mr Edward Mills, Severnvale Herd (H), Severnlea House, Church Farm, Northwick, Pilning, Bristol BS35 4HE Tel: 01454 632309 Email: edwardmillsmuddy@hotmail.com
Wiltshire Mr & Mrs J L Pike & Son Bromham Herd (P), Durlett Farm, Bromham Chippenham SN15 2HY Tel: 01380 850412 Email: richardjohnpike@icloud.com
A & D Robinson, Velleyhill Herd (P), Boyds Farm, Chapel Knapp, Gastard, Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 9PT Tel: 07966 376 015 Email: dereksallyrobins@aol.com
Lanscombe Herefords WINNING SOUTH WEST HERD 2021 2022 SW Medium Herd Winners
The Mitchell Family Henley Farm Dorchester Dorset lanscombe.herefords@icloud.com 07889 389830
Visitor always welcome Stock for Sale
Lanscombe 1 Cilla
Lanscombe 1 Doormouse
Pictures By Macgregor Head by Country Girl Media
Clubs & Associations
Mr R A Mitchell, Lanscombe herd (P), Higher Henley Farm, Buckland Newton, Dorchester, Dorset DT2 7BL Tel: 01300 345292 Email: jachenleyfarm@aol.com
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Clubs & Associations
South West Hereford Club A busy year of showing for our members started with the Sedgemoor calf show in February, where member F J Wood & Son won the overall native champion and reserve overall with their bull calf Allwood 1 Warrior. Before the next show, members had an enjoyable farm walk at Way Farm, Shillingford, Nr Bampton, Devon by kind invitation from Jack and Gemma Burgess of Clarence Herefords. Everyone met for a superb lunch at The Swan, Bampton before heading over to Jack and Gemma’s farm on the edge of Exmoor where they run a small but expanding herd of select horned Herefords with some traditional bloodlines, aiming to produce a shorter, stockier cow which has good milk and easy calving traits. Their cows are grazed on a mob grazing system where they are moved daily, aiming for the cattle to ‘eat a third, trample a third and leave a third’ with a 40-to-60-day rest between each patch. Jack also works as a fulltime firefighter and Gemma runs a beauty business and a shepherd’s hut from their orchard. We ended the afternoon with tea and delicious homemade cakes. Next up was the first of three county shows within short succession. First up was the Devon County Show, seeing members from SWHC take to the ring in full force, collecting a range of awards. We also had a breed society stand at the show, which had a busy stream of visitors. The next stop of the season was the Royal Bath and West; there was lots of success for our
members at this show with W Awan, The Mitchell Family, Mr E Mills and Les Gould all coming away with rosettes. Proving the showring can capture the attention of potential purchasers, W Awan’s bull Midford 1 Whatyalookinat, who racked up a stream of ribbons at the Bath and West, later marketing his bull at the society Autumn Show & Sale. Whatyalookinat sold for 4,200 gns to a breeder in Aberdeen. The Royal Cornwall Show was the next county show on the calendar. There was a great turnout of Herefords for the 2023 Royal Cornwall Show with show locals and long-time supporters, After a busy afternoon of showing on Thursday, the club met in the society tent where Jackie, Amelia and Angela laid on a delicious cream tea to thank Jonathan Moorhouse (Cato Herefords) for all his hard work on the Hereford council after 12 years representing the South West Area, his guidance and professionalism will be greatly missed. The members at the show also enjoyed a fish and chip supper and social on the Friday evening of the show. Then came the Three Counties Show, where both the Wood and Mitchell Families were saw success – moving ahead representing the club superbly! A highlight in the calendar saw our team for the National Stock judging competition come away overall team winners! The team consisted of Gerald Wood, Emily Mitchell & Chris Mitchell. Chris Mitchell also achieved the highest scoring individual and Emily Mitchell & Finlay Soutter came away with the highest scoring points for under 26-year-olds. A great result for the Southwest. The National Poll Show saw more success for the Wood family winning 1st for their heifer born between January and February ‘22 - Allwood 1 Greta We had another enjoyable gettogether at the end of summer,
169 owned by FJ Wood & Sons, won the Pedigree Native Calf championship and Lanscombe 1 Dude, owned by the Mitchell family of Dorset, won the Native Bull of the year and overall Reserve Champion. It was also great to see members support their local one day shows across our region with lots of rosettes being won across the board.
We ended an enjoyable year with our AGM, dinner, and herd competition awards at The Shrubbery, Ilminster. Our thanks were extended to Angela Prettejohn who stepped down as secretary after many years of service, working hard for our association at shows and events and keeping everyone up to speed.
W Awan represented the South West in style at Agri Expo with herd favourite Midford 1 Ravette Reserve Overall Champion, Overall Female Champion & Junior Female and again winning their class at the English Winter Fair. A great turnout of Hereford entries at Agrifest Southwest. This was the first time the Herefords had their own classes at this event and Allwood 1 Acrobat,
Herd Competition Results Large Herd Category
Medium Herd Category
Small Herd Category
Herd, 1st Cato, Moorhouse (Overall Winner); 2nd Hollystone, Caunter; 3rd Spyway, Earley
Herd, 1st Gwel An Mor, Vague; 2nd Lanscombe, Mitchell; 3rd Anchor, Wallace
Herd, 1st Allwood, Wood; 2nd
Best Bull Calf, 1st Cato 1 Apollo, Moorhouse; 2nd Hollystone 1 Lucky Caunter
Best Bull Calf, 1st Velleyhill 1 Kingkong, Robinson; 2nd Gwel An Mor 1 Hector, Vague; 3rd Boarsbarrow 1 Artemis, Hood
Best Heifer Calf, 1st Cato 1 Princess 873, Moorhouse; 2nd Hollystone 1 Laurel 760, Caunter; 3rd Spyway Ambrosia 164, Earley Best Stock Bull, 1st Panmure 1 Rocky, Caunter; 2nd Cato 1 Plutarch, Moorhouse; 3rd Hollystone 1 Easyrider, Caunter Best Brood Cow, 1st Cato 1 Princess 625, Moorhouse; 2nd Hollystone 1 Linda 405, Caunter; 3rd Spyway 1 Ambrosia 7th, Earley
Best Heifer Calf, 1st Gwel An Mor, Vague; 2nd Trye 1 Lady Kathryn 212, Roberts; 3rd Lanscombe 1 Ellie 608, Mitchell Best Stock Bull, 1st Vexour 1 Phantom, Mitchell; 2nd Solpoll 1 Trooper, Voss; 3rd Lanscombe 1 Chuckle, Hood Best Brood Cow, 1st Adzor Trinity 359, Vague; 2nd Anchor 1 Enya 1st 159, Wallace; 3rd Stockbridge 1 Gertie 55, Voss
Severnvale, Mills; 3rd Midford, Awan Best Bull Calf, 1st Allwood 1 Acrobat, Wood; 2nd Severnvale Rodney, Mills; 3rd Bikm 1 Thunder, Plume Best Heifer Calf, 1st Midford 1 Ravette 1st 75, Awan; 2nd Allwood Lilacwine 17, Wood; 3rd Baybridge 1 Flower 4th, Gould Best Stock Bull, 1st Kinglee 1 The New One, Awan; 2nd Dendor 1 Tripple H, Wood; 3rd Cato 1 Turncoat, Plume Best Brood Cow, 1st Midford 1 Ravette 0738, Awan; 2nd Dendor 1 Greta 962, Wood; 3rd Severnvale Countess 361, Mills
Clubs & Associations
albeit with challenging weather conditions, with another farm walk, this time by the kind invitation of Paul and Vicky Moyle of Porton House Herefords. We had lunch in The Farmers Arms, with most members opting for the beef and with a respite from the rain, we had a tour of their Hereford cattle. Porton Herefords are situated in Goldcliff on the beautiful foreshore and former saltmarshes of the Bristol Channel estuary. Porton aims to breed superb grass-reared quality beef cattle capable of producing bulls and heifers to suit pedigree and commercial herds. We also had the pleasure of our president, David Smyth, at this event.
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Clubs & Associations
Traditional
Club Information
Hereford Breeders' Club Promoting the Original Population of Hereford cattle Chairman Leslie Cook Tel: 07818 632353 Email: info@albanyfarm.com
Vice Chair
National - Traditional Hereford Breeders' Club Helen MacLeod helmac2@btconnect.com
Secretary Helen MacLeod 07780 642263
traditionalherefords.org
Susie Woods Tel: 01568 750130 Email: susie_woods@hotmail.co.uk
Secretary Helen MacLeod Tel: 07780 642263 Email: helenmac2@btconnect.com
Traditional Hereford Breeders’ Club report With a full programme of events held during 2023, THBC members have been keen to showcase the qualities of the breed at herd visits, shows and sales, resulting in a gain of new members throughout the year. It has been fantastic to see so many Traditional Hereford cattle changing hands to form new herds and expand existing ones. The Club has also begun work to safeguard the future of some of the rarer family lines, building on the research done last year to determine how many live females exist within each original line, and now moving on to collect and store embryos from those with the highest priority.
Margarita herd disperses. The Margarita herd of Roger Hodson-Walker, Swadlincote, was dispersed across two sales held at Melton Mowbray Market, the first on 27th May, which contained the herd’s earlier calving cows and a group of maiden heifers. Topping the sale at 2,700gns was the 2018-born cow Margarita Countess R224 with her registered heifer calf at foot, selling to Young Hereford Breeder Lucy Smith, Wakefield, who also secured the 2019-born second
Margarita Dispersal
calver Margarita Linnett S241 with registered heifer calf at foot for 2,350gns. The second sale took place on 9th September, with top prices including 1,350gns for the 2019-born cow Margarita Countess S240, sold to Vanish Point Farm, Northants, along with three-yearold second calver Margarita Julia T243 with heifer calf at foot for 1,300gns to the same buyer. Also selling at 1,300gns was Margarita Oyster Girl V263 with heifer calf foot, purchased by Underwood Lodge Farm, Gaddesby.
Clubs & Associations
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172
Clubs & Associations
Club holds first Herd Competition Congratulations to all the members who competed in the first annual Traditional Hereford Breeders’ Club Herd Competition, judged by the Powys Hereford Breeders’ Association Secretary Glenn Pritchard, New Tredegar. Members from all over the UK offered up their breeding herds for the on-farm judging, and this year’s winner was the Cliffe herd of Patricia Holloway, an organic herd farmed as part of a mixed beef and sheep enterprise on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire. Runner-up was the Carpenters herd of Helen MacLeod near Malvern, Worcestershire, another grass-based farm incorporating wildflower meadows to produce forage-finished beef.
Trade Stand Three Counties 2023 in being asked and thanks to all the breeders who made us most welcome.”
Glenn commented: “This summer I had the honour and privilege to judge the inaugural Traditional Hereford herd of the year competition, a journey that took us almost 1500 miles around the UK. The herds we viewed were very impressive, the similarity of the cattle unbelievable, and the majority were grazed and finished on grass alone, which augurs well for the future as increased feed prices see producers going back to breeds which finish on grass with no added concentrates. The enthusiasm of the breeders was infectious and the warm welcome we were given everywhere we went was overwhelming. Although the cattle were the main objective, we feel we’ve made lifelong friends of all the breeders we met along the way which I feel is just as important. I can honestly say that picking a winner was no easy task as any one of the twelve herds that participated could have won. I would just like to reiterate that I feel privileged
Summer herd visit proves popular with members.
Results
Small Herd 1st Fiona Dunne, Willow Grange; = 2nd Serena & Andrew Sykes, Kileekie; Andrew & Gillian Crow, Rhydri
Large Herd 1st Patricia Holloway, Cliffe; 2nd Woods Van Beele Partnership, Herouldmede Medium Herd 1st Helen MacLeod, Carpenters; 2nd Lucy Smith, Holmebank
Hosted by the team at Awnell’s Farm, Much Marcle, and by kind invitation of well-known Hereford breeder David Powell of the Street herd, the THBC Summer Herd Visit was fantastically well-attended by members from far and wide on Wednesday 21st June. This 220-acre grassland farm sports magnificent mature apple orchards, supplying Weston’s Cider and hosting several visits and open days throughout the year, where people can view the cattle grazing amongst the apple trees. Awnell’s is also home to eleven-year-old Hereford steer Jock, who has become somewhat of a local celebrity as a ‘gentle giant’ from touring RBST events (though he’s now mainly used within the herd to alert the stockman when a cow is ready to be AI’d), alongside a herd of Golden Guernsey goats which
produce milk to be made into Jolly G’s Ice Cream. The pedigree Hereford herd consists of both Traditional and British Polled genetics, utilising a combination of live bulls and AI to maintain the breeding programme within a closed herd. Steers and surplus heifers are finished to produce top-quality beef boxes for sale in the local area, and the group were lucky enough to be provided with fantastic roast beef rolls for lunch from the latest batch of Awnell’s beef, followed by their delicious goat’s milk ice cream, before an afternoon tour of the cattle. The Club wishes to thank David and his hardworking team at Awnell’s for hosting this year’s summer meeting and herd visit, and thanks also go to all who attended for making it such an enjoyable day.
Overall Winner Patricia Holloway, Cliffe Overall Runner Up Helen MacLeod, Carpenters
Summer herd visit
173 Royal Welsh Spring Festival
Shrophire
Royal Three Counties
Breed champion and female champion Albany Lindy, L Cook
Breed Champion, Male Champion Albany Sailor, FW Cook & Son
Reserve breed champion and reserve female champion Albany Model 2nd, FW Cook & Son
Reserve Breed Champion, Female Champion Gavelock Sarah, P & E Lynn
Interbreed Champion, Breed Champion Albany Sailor, FW Cook & Son
Male champion Carpenters Monarchist, Mrs H MacLeod
Junior Champion Carpenters Monroe, Mrs H MacLeod
Bull, any age 1st, Carpenters Monarchist, Mrs H MacLeod
Bull, any age 1st Albany Sailor, FW Cook & Son ; 2nd Carpenters Monroe, Mrs H MacLeod; 3rd Carpenters McKenzie, Mrs H MacLeod
Cow or heifer with calf at-foot 1st, Carpenters Laura, Mrs H MacLeod Heifer in-calf 1st, Albany Prettymaid 30th, FW Cook & Son ; 2nd, Gavelock Sarah, P and E Lynn; 3rd, Caebach Unity Amorous, N and R Johnson Maiden heifer 1st, Albany Lindy, L Cook; 2nd, Albany Model 2nd, FW Cook & Son ; 3rd, Hockerwood Caroline, P and E Lynn; 4th, Rhydri Heidi Laura, G Crow Calf under 12 months of age 1st Albany Leona, FW Cook & Son ; 2nd, Lower Eaton Io Sylvia 54th, M Horton
Heifer, born in 2021 1st Gavelock Sarah, P & E Lynn; 2nd Gavelock Curly 3rd, Mrs C Redmayne Heifer, born on or after 1st January 2022 1st Albany Prettymaid 32nd, FW Cook & Son; 2nd Hockerwood Caroline, P & E Lynn; 3rd Carpenters Curly 20th, Mrs H MacLeod; 4th Lower Eaton Sylvia 54th, Mr M Horton
Reserve Breed Champion Carpenters Curly 18th, The Elms School Bull, any age 1st Albany Sailor, FW Cook & Son; 2nd Caebach Sydney, N & R Johnson Cow, in calf or with calf at foot, born on or before 31st December 2020 1st Carpenters Laura, Mrs H MacLeod Heifer, born in 2021 1st Carpenters Curly 18th, The Elms School; 2nd Caebach Unity, N & R Johnson; 3rd Gavelock Curly 3rd, Mrs C Redmayne; 4th Albany Larissa, The Elms School Heifer, born on or after 1st January 2022 1st Albany Prettymaid 32nd, FW Cook & Son; 2nd Poolhullock Silk 35th, Mr J Helme; 3rd Carpenters Curly 20th, Mrs H Macleod; 4th Langridge Snazzy, Miss F Cook; 5th Lower Eaton Sylvia 54th, Mr M Horton
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Clubs & Associations
Show Results
Sales Shows 174
175
Shows ● Spring Show & Sale ● Autumn Show & Sale ● Dungannon Sales ● Stirling ● HCBA Sale ● Ervie Spring Bull Sale ● Grassmasters Online Sale ● Magarita Dispersal ● Santa Maria Dispersal ● Designer Genes
Sales
Within this section
176
Sales
Livesey’s line-up leads spring sale at 12,000gns At the Hereford Cattle Society’s spring show and sale at Shrewsbury, a top call of 12,000gns was heard for October 2021-born Normanton 1 Whiskey from TD and WT Livesey having already stood junior male champion in the pre-sale show before selling to Paul and Vicky Moyle, Newport, Gwent to join their Porton House herd. By Dendor 1 Rosco P. Coltrane, a son of the 2017 Royal Welsh Show champion Bakgard 1 Keno 1178, it is out of Normanton 1 Fistulina 25th S192, a daughter of Normanton 1 Laertes which stood interbreed champion at the Royal Welsh and Royal Highland Show in 2016. This sale leader was one of six bulls forward from the Liveseys’ stable which sold to an average of £5,195. Across the board, 38 bulls averaged £4,302.24, having cleared at 91 per cent with a seemingly stronger appetite for junior bulls. Next in the money having already stood in the reserve spot to the Normanton bull in the junior male championship was Havenfield 1 Wilf from home of the breed, EL Lewis and son, Dilwyn, Herefordshire. At 15 months old, it changed hands at 7,500gns to L and L Bowen, Nelson, Glamorgan to join the Bowendu herd. A Solpoll 1 Dynamite son, it is out of Dendor 1 Ruby 20th, from one of the most well-known female lines in the breed at present, having already produced heifers to 7,800gns and 5,800gns, sold at the herd’s bicentenary sale last summer. Not far behind at 7,000gns was July 2021-born Auckvale 1 Winchester 2133W from W and R Kemp and sons, Bishops Auckland, Co Durham, paid for by W Shaw of Welburn Herefords, Kirby Moorside, North Yorkshire. Sired by Auckvale 1 Ramesses 1711R, it is out of Auckvale 1 Beth 1796R, a Canadian embryo import, flushed from CBB 4R Iggy 511C which the Kemps own a share of in Canada.
Normanton 1 Whiskey from TD and WT Livesey sold for 12,000gns
Rempstone 1 Waspy from M Ludgate, Thame, Oxfordshire sold at 5,800gns finding a home with another pedigree purchaser, this time SC and GL Hartwright, Abingdon, Oxfordshire to join the 2022 show herd of the year, Spartan Herefords. One of the youngest animals forward at 14 months old, it is by Dendor 1 Nairobi, the 2018 National Poll Show supreme champion, while its grand dam Blakesley 1 Kimberely stood reserve champion at the same show twice. At the same money was another Normanton offering, this time August-2021 born Normanton 1 Willywonka which travels to Northern Ireland to AI Services NI, based in Co Antrim. Out of a home-bred dam, it is an AI son of the AUS$95,000 Minlacowie Jubilant J123 which was beef interbreed champion at the 2016 Sydney Royal Easter Show. Born in the same week, stablemate Normanton 1 Woodville W471 was next through the ring, realising 5,400gns and travelling to Derbyshire with Atkin Bros, Barrow on Trent, Derbyshire. By Alvian 1 Emperor, it is out of another home-bred female, this time Normanton 1 Blue Button 5th. At 5,200gns was January 2022-born Midford 1 Whistlejacket from Will Awan, Midford, Bath selling to JR, JK and RJ Pike, Bromham, Wiltshire and joins the Bromham herd. February 2021-born Pepperstock 1 Vanquish from Speirs Farms, Luton was purchased by Robert Snelling,
177
Sales
Long Meadow, Berkshire at 5,000gns to join the Sarabande herd. At the same money was Fisher 1 Valiant V542 from RJ Hutchings, South Mundham, W Sussex, paid for by Stratfield Saye Farms, Hampshire. The female section saw 21 females average £3,400. The trade was led by strength and stature with October 2021-born Grifford 1 True Lush from Nick Griffths, Bickford, Staffordshire generating 8,000gns, selling to Jimmy Hodge, Berwick-upon-Tweed and joins the Fellowhills herd. By Irish sire Gouldingpoll 1 Stockman, it is out of Greenyards 1 Truelove M314 which Nick purchased in partnership with Sky High Herefords for 10,200gns at five years of age back in January 2020. Following its maternal sister through the ring was December 2021-born Grifford 1 True Breaker and was secured by the same buyer at 5,500gns. This heifer is by Romany 1 Lawbreaker RE L23 and was the natural daughter out of the two sisters. Porton House 1 Duchess 2nd from Paul and Vicky Moyle sold for 4,300gns to a top call from Bethan Hutchinson, Greatham, County Durham and joins the Bethanfield herd. By Dendor 1 Sherlock, it is out of Gouldingpoll 1 Duchess 978 from another renowned cow family. The highest priced junior heifer on the day, the breeders have performed consistently in this section in recent times. Moralee 1 Kylie KS268 from T and D Harrison, Mickley, Northumberland sold for 4,100gns to C Codd and R Lewis, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire of Furzy
Grifford 1 True Lush from NJ Griffiths sold for 8,000gns Herefords. By the 2019 sire of the year SMH King Size 87K, it is out of Moralee’s original Kylie female, bred from the Romany Ishbel line. A consignment of three heifers from Balfron-based George and Sophie Harvey peaked at 3,300gns for Harveybros 1 Crocus Vanilla, the day’s reserve female champion, secured by H Davies, Anglesey to join its half sister purchased in October 2021. Auctioneers: Halls Averages: 38 bulls, £4,302.24; 21 heifers, £3,400
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180
Sales
Willy-The-Womanizer hits the jackpot at Autumn Sale At the Hereford Cattle Society’s autumn show and sale at Shrewsbury, the hammer fell on the top call of 9000gns for Scottish bred, Harveybros 1 Willy-The-Womanizer from G & S Harvey. Tapped out as grand male champion in the pre-sale show earlier in the day, this 2021-born bull sired by Wirruna Matty M288 and out of home-bred Harveybros 1 Crocus N1. Willy has been shown with great success for George and Sophie Harvey, father, and daughter team, having racked up multiple titles and ribbons, a particular highlight on his cv was double win as native interbreed champion at the Royal Welsh show and at Perth earlier on in the season. Initially highlighted within the catalogue due to his unusual name by the Gooch family, a name proudly coined by Sophie, estate manager Andrew Allan was further drawn to the Scottish entry after spotting his impressive EBV data. Willy will be making the journey to the Suffolk coast, to play a pivotal role on the Benacre Estate with the reintroduction of cattle, after seeing the last herd leave in the 70’s. Lady Gooch, alongside her two daughters have ambitions of transforming the once arable farm into a regenerative haven. Under the watchful eye of Mr Allan, the farm will undergo work to improve soil health with the combination of herbal leys to help with carbon secretion and establish a large herd of Hereford cattle to contribute to this exciting initiative. Willy won’t be back to his new home alone, as Mr Allan secured a total of sixteen winning bids on quality heifers from the UK’s top breeders and bloodlines. Heading into further detail regarding the plans at Benacre, Mr Allan explained he is looking for an animal that will thrive on herbal leys, can maintain condition being wintering out on a farm that borders the coast and will offer them a product that they can confidently approach local, highly revered butchers. Another celt that got the attention of the crowd was Wales bred Dendor 1 Jano 23rd, a heifer who has had
Harveybros 1 Willy-The-Womanizer sold for 9000gns
Dendor 1 Jano 23rd sells for 6000gns a successful season in the showring winner her class at both the Royal Welsh and the Poll show last month. Selling for 6000gns, Jano will be heading down country to Totnes to the Wood family. New to the breed, the Allwood herd have been active participants in their local association and attended Devon County show seeing tremendous success taking the supreme championship and reserve as well as both the champion male and reserve titles. Jano will become a part of Gerald Woods plans for his herds development. Opening the sale, Glenvale 1 Sara 798 entered the ring, immediately commanding the attention of prospective purchasers. Travelling from Pembrokeshire, Sara 798 comes from the Thorne family, who had been named national herd of the year the night prior. This April-2021 heifer was tapped our in the pre-sale show 1st in her
181 The energy for good quality heifers continued as the auction lots progressed. G & MC Shepherd brought forward a large consignment and were met with demand throughout, their first lot Moorside 1 HC Jane 24th created a stir as the bids climbed settling on 5000gns heading to Creuddyn Herefords owned by Gwyndaf Davies from Felinfach, Lampeter. Five of the seven entries from the Shepherd herd will be heading to the Benacre estate in Suffolk. Moving to the top selling bulls, behind Willy-TheWomanizer, saw Barwise 1 Wordle NP W1298 from Carolyn Fletcher, heading to his new home within the LLynon herd owned by HO Davies, Amlwch, Anglesey. A buyer who attended the Lewis Family Bicentenary sale last year last year purchasing polled heifer, Havenfield 1 Ruby 4th.
Normanton 1 Warnie W890 from TD & WT Livesey took reserve grand male champion and reserve junior male champion. Sired by Gouldingpool 1 Gold Spice, out of homebred Normanton 1 Fistulina 20th R192. Sighted as the top pick for senior male champion following his win in the senior bull class, Thornysure 1 Willy Wonka, later sold for 3000gns to NW & J Kent, Penkridge, Staffordshire. Sired by Fisher 1 Monarch M414 out of a Kinaston 1 Neala cow.
refords
Standing reserve senior male champion, bred out of a Dendor bred cow, sired by Hawkesbury 1 Swift, Newtoncroft 1 Whole-Lot-Of-Fun. Heading across the road from the market to the Albrighton Estate.
Another highlight within the sale for the Harvey bros team saw Harveybros 1 Williams Wallace being whisked away to West Wales to get to work adding star power to D Evan’s Hereford suckler herd. The underbidder for Willy-The-Womanizer, Mr Evans wasn’t disappointed for long as he snapped up William-Wallace, who earlier in the day won his class and was awarded the trophy for the best pair exhibitor bred bulls, for 5600gns.
Bulls to an average – £4,121.25 Show heifers sold to an average – £3,431.84 For sale only females – £3,255.00 The clearance for the show heifers was 83% and 71% for the bulls.
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Sales
class and reserve female champion. The hammer fell on 5,200gns seeing Sara head home with M Ludgate, Thame, Oxfordshire to join the Rempstone herd.
182
Sales
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183
Trade hit 3,200gns on two occasions at the show and sale at Dungannon Farmers Mart in February, where 11 bulls were forward for Scottish-based judge Maddie Clark. One of these animals was champion Solpoll 1 Vindicator from John and William McMordie, Ballygowan. A son of Solpoll 1 Promoter out of the Panmure 1 Henry daughter Solpoll 1 Pansy M16, this May-2021 born bull boasts high EBVs with the highest terminal index in the catalogue and was knocked down to John Beattie, Omagh.
Solpoll 1 Vindicator from J and W McMordie
At the same money was Annaghbeg Jedi from Mark and Lawrence Moore, Aughnacloy and sold to J and J Herron, Whitecross. Also born in May 2021, it is by the Irish AI sire Trillick George and out of the imported Balleen Pansy 668, a daughter of Gageboro Eugenic. The reserve champion and winner of the junior class was River-Dale 1 Warrior from the McMordie family, Saintfield which saw a final bid from Billy Morton, Armagh at 3,100gns. August 2021-born, it was full of home-bred genetics being by River-Dale 1 Spartacus and out of River-Dale 1 Dainty Sue.
Annaghbeg Jedi from Mark and Lawrence Moore
Robin Irvine, Whitecross sold two May 2021-born sons of this stock bull Blakesley 1 Nobility, topping at 2,600gns for Graceland 1 Vaughan, a second prize winner in the intermediate class and sold to Omagh to join O Mitchell’s herd.
Auctioneers: Dungannon Farmers Mart Averages: 8 bulls, £2,664 River-Dale 1 Warrior from the McMordie family
Sales
Dungannon reaches 3,200gns twice
184
Sales
Junior bulls top trade in Dungannon The April native breed sale at Dungannon Farmers Mart was led by the junior bulls, with the last class providing the top three prices. Taking the top price of 3,300gns was the last bull into the ring, the December 2021-born River-Dale 1 Wrangler from the McMordie Family, Saintfield. A son of the 2021 Balmoral Show reserve male champion Solpoll 1 Real Good, its dam River-Dale 1 Dainty’s Dashing was a daughter of past NI sire of the year Panmure 1 Henry. Backed with impressive figures its terminal and self-replacing indexes were in top 10 per cent. It sold to William McCullough, Newry.
River-Dale 1 Wrangler from the McMordie family sold for 3,300gns
Following closely behind at 3,200gns was the reserve male champion and winner of the youngest class Solitude 1 Washington. Bred by Andrew McMordie, Ballygowan it was a son of the successful Solpoll 1 Promoter with its dam Solitude 1 Duchess P946 again sired by Panmure 1 Henry. It had the highest terminal and self-replacing figures in the sale, both in the top five per cent, it sold to A McCrea, Strabane. Also selling for the same price was Barnburn 1 Volcano from Bertie and Greer Watson, Raffrey. Sired by last year’s sire of the year Solpoll 1 Ringo, its dam Barnburn 1 Priscilla was reserve supreme champion Balmoral Show in 2018. A second prize winner it was a full brother to last year’s champion and top price and sold to T Nicholson, Kilkeel.
Solitude 1 Washington from Andrew McMordie sold for 3,200gns
Judge Ivan Forsythe selected his champion from the intermediate class with the August 2021-born Black Water Vegas, from Nigel Heatrick, Middletown. Sired by stock bull Clondrina 1110th its home-bred dam Black Water Pepsi was sired by Kye Sting. It also sold to A McCrea, Strabane for 3,000gns. The winner of the senior class was April 2021-born Graceland 1 Victor, from Robin and James Irvine, Whitecross. Sired by stock bull Blakesley 1 Nobility from a Fisher 1 Jubilee dam, it sold for 2,800gns to William Irvine, Armagh.
Auctioneers: Dungannon Farmers Mart Average: 8 bulls, £3,071.25
Barnburn 1 Volcano from Bertie and Greer Watson sold for 3,200gns
185
Sales
4,000gns top at Stirling Leading the trade in February was Fellowhills 1 Whisky from Jimmy Hodge, Berwick-upon-Tweed which sold at 4,000gns. July 2021-born, it is by Fabb 1 Royce, a son of the Canadian WLL Global Force 7X, and out of Romany 1 Ishbel BW RSS, a daughter of the previous UK sire of the year Barwise 1 Wellington. It crosses the border, being purchased by Messrs Jordan, Chathill, Northumberland who won champion at Hexham’s native show and sale in October with Hereford sired steers.
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Fellowhills 1 Whisky from J Hodge
Craigdhu 1 Victor from Margaret Galbraith, Sandilands, Lanarkshire received a top call of 3,500gns and sold to A and B McHarg, Auchincruive, Ayrshire. Born in January 2021, it is by Barwise 1 Wellington and another out of a Romany female, this time Jane ST M70, which is a daughter of Spurstow 1 Star Bright Future.
and son, Balbuthie, Fife. By Moralee 1 Roland Rat KS R16, it is out of Baldinnie 1 Dainty which is bred from the Solpoll line. At 21 months of age, it sold to J Purdie, Rankinston, Ayrshire.
At 2,500gns was Baldinnie 1 Daiquiri from JA Cameron
Average: 3 bulls, £3,500
2 0 1 3
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186
Sales
5,000gns top at Worcester HCBA sale Top price at the Hereford Cattle Breeders’ Association show and sale at Worcester Livestock Market was Havenfield 1 Ruby 6th from EL Lewis and son, Dilwyn, Herefordshire, selling at 5,000gns to L and L Powell, Penpedaorheol, Glamorgan of Brynheath Herefords.
Havenfield 1 Ruby sold for 5000gns
September 2021-born, it is a daughter of Solpoll 1 Lawman which is by Panmure 1 Henry. This heifer is out of Dendor 1 Ruby 20th, by Solpoll 1 Gilbert, the three times UK sire of the year. Heifers averaged £1,954.60. From Nick and Lucy Holdsworth, Pebworth, Warwickshire, Pebworth 1 Tara, sold for 2,000gns with its steer calf at-foot, bought by GD Nussey, Awre, Gloucestershire. By Cato 1 Miller, it is out of Pebworth 1 Nova. Bulls averaged £2,457 with HighHouse Wildtrack from JR and HM Whitlow, Worcestershire, selling for 3,000gns to C McCreath, Longridge, Staffordshire of Levedale Herefords. March 2022-born, it is by Drumatee Rocket, purchased from John Conlon for 2,500gns at the NIHBA premier show and sale at Dungannon in February 2020. Auctioneers: McCartneys
HighHouse Wildtrack sold for 3000gns
187
C & D Auctions conducted the Annual Spring Live and Online Bidding Sale of Hereford and Aberdeen Angus Bulls at Mains of Airies, Kirkcolm, Stranraer on behalf of John Douglas and Family. 30 Hereford & 3 Aberdeen Angus bulls were presented to a huge ringside of repeat and first time buyers who ventured to the south west of Scotland, attracted by the quality of the outwintered, unpampered, high maternal trait bulls on offer and along with online bidding, bulls were easily sold, finding homes throughout the UK. Resulting in a 100% clearance to average £3297. Leading price of £5800 was paid for the first bull in the ring – Towford L1 Achievement 303009 out of Ervie L1 Achievement cow. This stylish rangy bull sold to local Black Baldie producer R. Parker, Drumdow. Welsh Hereford breeder, A.W Evans, Dolllys Farm, Powys paid £4200 for Towford Achiever 403017, a long, light birthweight bull from the Ervie Lisette Family. A light birthweight bull from the Ervie Narcissi family – Towford Achiever 503025 then sold at £3800 to PRW Farms, Balmaghie, Castle Douglas, mainly for use on the dairy herd but potentially also some pedigree Herefords. Volume buyer for bulls to use on their dairy herd was repeat buyers, James & Becky Ward, Stranraer, buying ten Hereford bulls for an average of £3040. Another repeat dairy buyer, Andrew Smith, Brampton, secured five Herefords for the same average £3040. Prices ranged from £5800 to £2600. The 33 bulls grossed £108,800 to average £3296.97 (A rise of £444.97)
Sales
Ervie Spring Bull Sale
188
Sales
Bulls to £3,000 in Grass Masters Online Sale Finding the peak of the trade in the second annual Grass Masters online auction was the May 2021born bull Albany Sailor from the Cook family, Cambridge, selling for £3,000 to Oliver Stanley, Bath. Having claimed breed championships at both the Shropshire County and Royal Three Counties shows this year, this bull finishes the season with a move to the organic and Pasture For Life certified Lilliput Farm. A well-established traditional grazing enterprise, there are plans afoot for an on-site farmhouse kitchen with dry-ageing facility to market their finished cattle and sheep which graze the Cotswold Edge.
Albany Sailor from the Cook family sold for £3,000
Knocked down at £2,550 was another two-yearold bull, Carpenters Brigadier from Helen MacLeod, Malvern, Worcestershire. One of only a few contemporary cattle sired by AI from the 1962-born MMB bull Ffostil Brigadier, this June 2021-born bull sold to the Eutierria prefix of Sarah Cowle, Aylesbury. Leading the female trade was another from FW Cook and son, the in-calf 2018-born cow Albany Oyster Girl 20th which sold to P and E Lynn, Nottinghamshire for £2,225. Representing a particularly rare female line of which only 10 were identified in 2023 census, this cow was selected by the Lynn family to expand the existing base of bloodlines within their growing Hockerwood herd.
Carpenters Brigadier from Helen MacLeod sold for £2,550
Another standout female line which breeders had the chance to pick up in this year’s online event, emanating from the original Free Town C family, came in the form of the 2019-born in-calf cow Carpenters Caroline, bred and sold by Helen MacLeod for £2,000 to repeat purchasers Courteenhall Estate, based near Northampton, who also secured in-calf heifer Carpenters Gaymaid 2nd from the same vendor for £1,500. New breeder Harry Wreathall, Bury St Edmunds, purchased two 2017-born cows, both sired by Boresisle Lawrence. Gavelock Sybilla with her steer
Albany Oyster Girl 20th from FW Cook and son sold for £2,225
189 calf at foot from Carolyn Redmayne made £1,600, and in-calf Albany Lisbon from FW Cook and son sold for £1,525.
The final lot in the auction was a pair of embryos offered for sale by P and E Lynn. Sired by Margarita Sebastian and from the family’s home-bred and show-winning donor dam Hockerwood Lucy, they were purchased for £250 per embryo by James Reed of ND Dibben Farms, Salisbury.
Sales
Two further lots from vendor Helen MacLeod both sold into Wales, with the yearling bull Carpenters Monroe knocked down at £1,500 to Ben Jones, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire and maiden heifer Carpenters Curly 19th to Rob Turner, Llanymynech, Powys for £1,200.
Carpenters Caroline from H MacLeod sold for £2,000
Sales manager: Agri Marketing/Traditional Hereford Breeders’ Club Averages: 3 bulls, £2,350; 4 in-calf females, £1,812.50; 1 cow and calf, £1,600; 1 maiden heifer, £1,200; 2 embryos, £250
First Margarita dispersal sale tops at 2,700gns The first dispersal sale of the Margartia herd of Traditional Herefords held on behalf of Roger Hodson-Walker at Melton Mowbray market peaked at 2,700gns for Margarita Countess R224, a 2018-born female. By Boresisle Onedin it is out of a home-bred female by Baytal Charles and sold to young breeder L Smith, Crofton, Wakefield. At 2,350gns was Margarita Linnett S241, and travels to Wakefield with its top price stablemate. By West Wales-bred Laxfield Jefferson, it is out of Penylan Linnett 48th, which is sired by the 1963-born Free Town Velox. Purchased by MJ Sharlot, Weston under Wetherley, Warwickshire for a call of 1,450gns was Margarita 1 Sally N208, a seven year old poll cow. By Hollowseal 1 Gambler, it is out of Spurstow 1 Sally 2nd, a Remittall First Class ET 113R daughter. Margarita Oyster Girl V271 was secured by the same
buyer at 1,350gns. Another Jefferson daughter, it is out of Margarita Oyster Girl P218 which is bred from the line of the same name at Albany. Just behind at 1,300gns was Margarita Countess P214, purchased by Maxwell Eagle, North Pickenham, Norfolk. Born in March 2017, it is another by Boreisle Onedin, this time out of Llandinabo Countess 17th.
Auctioneers: Melton Mowbray Market Top Price: £2,835
190
Horned and Polled Genetics
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John & Helen Whitlow
Breedplan Performance Recording
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Sales
Breeding cattle for pedigree and commercial herds
Bulls and Heifers usually for sale
High House Farm, Abbots Morton, Worcestershire, WR7 4NA Office: 01386 793 880 Mob: 07801 179821 Email: jrwhitlow@highhouseherefords.com
Quality easy doing cattle
Twilight Herefords
Bulls, Heifers, Cows and Calves For Sale
Freetown Notary leaving us with a really strong group of young bulls for sale
Alex Gifford Farming
Milton Damerel, Holsworthy, Devon EX22 7LL a notary son Twilight Odin
07813 277146 Twilight Herefords
Twilight Venus 866 by Haven Kermit
sold to Jack and Gemma Burgess of the Clarence herd
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First lot through the ring at the Santa Maria dispersal sale held at Shrewsbury Auction Centre on behalf of Tony Vasami, Ceredigion was Rempstone 1 Bertha H311. The 2019 Royal Highland Show senior female champion which sold at 3,000gns to its breeder M Ludgate, Thame, Oxfordshire. Born in May 2014, it is a Solpoll 1 Hollywood son, out of Llancillo Hall Bertha 3rd and was purchased for the Santa Maria herd at the 2019 Designer Genes sale. Split from its Moralee 1 Rebel Kicks sired bull calf in the ring, Santa Maria 1 AJ sold separately at 1,100gns to Ian Braithwaite, Wolverhampton, seeing the outfit generate 4,100gns. Dendor 1 Greta 29th with Gouldingpoll 1 Stockman sired bull calf Santa Maria 1 Alcatraz was secured by Keadyview Livestock Services, Welshpool at 3,000gns. The same buyer was successful in securing Claxton 1 Catherine Of Aragon, a 2018-born cow with a Gouldingpoll 1 Stockman sired heifer calf at-foot for 2,600gns. Moralee 1 Kylie KS S10 with its Moeskear Waterloo bull calf reached 2,400gns, secured by JA Pudge for the Black Hall Herd. In-calf heifers peaked at 2,200gns for Sky High 1 Demeter, daughter of Alderville 1 Diane, due in January 2024 to Gouldingpoll 1 Duncan purchased by Messrs J and R Hall, Warwickshire. Maiden heifers were again topped by Sky High breeding in the form of Lady Lambo, the daughter of Gouldingpoll 1 Duchess 967 which sold for 1,800gns to JA Pudge. The Moralee reduction of cattle entered by Tom and Di Harrison, Mickley, Northumberlad saw a great trade for young cows and calves topping at 2,200gns for Moralee 1 Twinkle Gem KS T3, a powerful King Size daughter with Moralee 1 RHS Prince KR R8 daughter atfoot secured by Hesketh Farm, Yorkshire. Other heifers
with calves from the Moralee stable sold at 2,100gns. Moralee-bred maiden heifers topped with Moralee 1 Willow Gem TE279, out of the aforementioned Moralee 1 Twinkle Gem KS T3, it is by Dendor 1 Tecwyn and at 14 months old sold for 1,650gns to JA Pudge. Other cow and calf outfits peaked at 2,400gns for Graham Shepherd’s Moorside 1 New Dawn 6th, a heifer sired by the 13,000gns Coley 1 Pilot with a Hoghton View 1 Jackaroo sired heifer calf at-foot. Commercial Hereford cross outfits from MA De Quincey saw rapid interest peaking at £1,900 for a 2018 cow and heifer calf at-foot. Humblebee Grange herd reduction section of the sale, held on behalf of Derbyshire-based Walker Farms saw cows and calves reach 1,700gns for Humblebee Grange 1 Diadem 3rd bred from the Laxfield Diadem line with its April 2023-born Fabb 1 Push Over sired bull calf. These outfits consistently sold between 1,450gns and 1,650gns. The 2020-born stock bull Humblebee Grange 1 Victory attracted great interest and achieved 2,800gns for use on a local dairy farm.
Auctioneers: Halls Averages: 60 cows and calves, £1,744.67; 1 incalf cow, £1,102.50; 13 pedigree maiden heifers, £1,373.08; 2 pedigree stock bulls, £2,336.25; 4 pedigree in-calf heifers, £1,824, 2 embryos, £100
Sales
Dispersal sale peaks with cow and calf combining at 4,100gns
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Designer Genes 2023 Sale Report The 8th Annual Designer Genes event took place on the 9th and 10th December 2023 at Shrewsbury Auction Centre, genetics selling on Friday and live lots selling on Saturday. The sales were organised and managed by Dowbiggin Marketing in partnership with Halls. Jonny Dymond was the auctioneer on the day.
Friday Sale The DGS On Ice Sale Volume III took place on Friday evening with 15 genetic lots selling to buyers both in the room and online. A hog roast supper and open bar was enjoyed by those attending the event in person. • 1 Pick of the Calves (Auckvale Herefords) sold for 5,000gns (£5,250) • 1 Pick of the Herd Flush (Moeskaer Herefords) sold for 6,500gns (£6,825) • 1 Flush (Auckvale Curly 1381S – Moralee Herefords) sold for 1,600gns (£1,680) • 29 Embryos sold to 520gns (£546) per embryo twice (Solpoll & Gouldingpoll) and average £474 per embryo • 30 straws of Semen sold to 160gns (£168) per straw twice (Keadyview & Pepperstock) and average £135.50 per straw A pick of the 2023 calves from Auckvale Herefords was the opening lot of the sale. This lot gave the buyer the right to an exclusive pick of all 2023 born calves at Auckvale, male or female, with the pick taking place by June 2024. The lot sold for 5,000gns (£5,250) to Emma Hodge, Berwickshire, Scottish Borders. Moeskaer Herefords offered the right to flush any cow in their herd, guaranteeing a minimum of 5 grade A exportable embryos to a sire of the buyer’s choosing. The lot sold for 6,500gns (£6,825) to Kevin Schaub, Canada. A flush of the 10,000gns former record breaking female Auckvale Curly 1831S was consigned by T & D Harrison of Moralee Herefords. The 1831S female is also the dam of the current Horned Female of the Year. The flush sold for 1,600gns (£1,680) to G Davies, Ceredigion, Wales.
29 embryos from multiple consignors peaked twice at 520gns per embryo. Firstly, embryos by Gouldingpoll 1 Duchess 671, consigned by Matthew Goulding, sold to B Fitzgerald, Republic of Ireland. Embryos from Solpoll 1 Startlet M19, consigned by J & W McMordie, and by Dendor 1 Kohinoor, sold to P & V Moyle, Porton House Herefords. 29 embryos averaged £474 per embryo. Semen on three exciting sires sold to a high of 160gns (£168) per straw and averaged £135.50 per straw. Two packs of five straws of 16,000gns Spartan 1 Typhoon sold for 140gns and 160gns each, both to K Davidson, Fife, Scotland. Semen from Kingsland 1 Wolf (current National Champion Polled Hereford Bull) sold for 160gns per straw for 10 straws to Nigel Owens, Carmarthenshire, Wales. Semen from Moralee 1 RHS Prince, sire of the 11,000gns high-selling female, sold for 85gns per straw to S Jones and 75gns per straw to P Williams.
Saturday Sale A select trade was met at the 8th Annual Designer Genes Sale. 8 lots of Elite Herefords sold to a top price of 11,000gns and average £6,116.25. Clearance sat at 57%. The top price of 11,000gns (£11,550) was paid for 9-month-old heifer calf Moralee 1 Katy- Perry PR301. Sired by the popular Moralee 1 RHS Prince and out of foundation female Richmount 1 Katie-Perry, she was sold to A Whitfield, Shropshire. This is a new UK record for a Hereford animal under 12-months of age – a record previously set at Designer Genes 2016 by Sky High 1 Miss Valentine. The lead off lot was current Joint Bull of the Year Solpoll 1 Trailblazer, consigned by L & L Bowen of Bowendu Herefords. Selling with a package of 150 straws of Trailblazer semen, this lot was sold for 10,000gns (£10,500) to Vaughan Farms Ltd, Herefordshire.
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The second highest priced female of the day was from S & E Walker, Hoghton View Herefords. Hoghton View 1 Alfreda 3rd was a daughter of Moeskaer Magnetic and out of a Normanton 1 Laertes daughter, she was scanned in-calf to new herdsire Auckvale 1 Walktall. She was purchased by A Whitfield, Shropshire for 8,200gns (£8,610).
Other prices • Lot 5 – Porton House 1 Lilac Wine 2nd sold for 4,200gns to F J Wood • Lot 11 – Pepperstock 1 Fashion A899 sold for 4,000gns to JDC Livestock • Lot 2 – Porton House 1 Amethyst 3rd sold for 3,600gns to C Codd & R Lewis
Di and Tom Harrison with Moralee 1 Katy-Perry PR301, 11,000gsn
• Lot 14 – Midford 1 Brownie 1st sold for 3,000gns to U Shaw • Lot 13 – Bowendu 1 Lottie 4th sold for 2,600gns to J Edwards
Averages • 8 lots averaged £6,116.25 • 1 bull averaged £10,500.00 • 7 females averaged £5,499.00
Solpoll 1 Trailblazer sold for 10,000gsn to Vaughan Farms Ltd, Herefordshire
Cow Thornby 1 Thatcher & calf Thornby 1 Sweetheart Alice Thornby 1 Abraham
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Shows ● Balmoral ● Royal Bath and West ● National Poll Show ● Northern Irish National ● Royal Welsh Spring Festival ● Shropshire County Show ● Shropshire County Traditionals ● Scottish National ● National Hereford Show ● Devon County Show ● Royal Welsh Show ● Royal Three Counties Show ● National Stock judging Competition ● Royal Cornwall Show ● Great Yorkshire Show ● Stars of the Future ● HCBA Christmas Calf Show ● National Poll Show ● English Winter Fair ● Welsh Winter Fair
Shows
Within this section
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Bulls of the Year Show Season In this year’s showing season, two bulls shone in the ring, their show teams busy up and down the country earning points that stood them in joint position for the bull of the year title. We reflect on the journey that led to their success. Coley 1 Vincent Coley 1 Vincent was marked for great things back in 2021 when he was brought forward to take both the reserve supreme champion and junior bull champion title at the Great Yorkshire show. In the same year he strode into reserve junior male championship at the national poll show in Moreton-in-Marsh. Hailing from the prolific Coley herd, headed up by breeder Heather Whittaker and stockman Andrew Hughes, Vincents success in the ring along with his impressive EBV’s put him in good stead to catch another breeder’s eye when the time came for him to leave Halifax. Spotted by Liam Jackson-Carr of JC Herefords, Carle Coates, Sheffield as a valuable addition to his herd, this young breeder invested in the September 2020-born bull and arrangements were made for him to travel an hour South. Since the acquisition, the JC herd have seen a summer of success. The first being at Northumberland show where Vincent picked up the male championship. Out of Goudlingpoll Duchess lines, a family which has proved powerful for the Coley herd with former stablemate and female of the year 2023, Coley 1 Duchess 609 bred from the same line. Vincent out of Gouldingpoll 1 Duchess 591, a daughter of the Canadian-bred Remitall Super Duty 42S and is a son of Fabb 1 Northern Star.
Coley 1 Vincent from L Jackson-Carr Hot of the success of Northumberland the team headed to the Royal Highland Show. Overseen on the day by judge, Carolyn Fletcher of the Barwise herd, Andrew Hughes led Vincent to success on behalf of Mr Jackson-Carr. Racking up the ribbons, Vincent led the way in his class before moving to take the senior bull title, the male champion title and ending the day on a high as supreme breed champion. Next stop, Royal Norfolk show. Despite being pipped to the post for the supreme title by Coley 1 Duchess 609, the pair joined forces to create a powerful team and stole the show in the interbred class and again in the group of three when Spartan 1 Oyster Gem SP166 from SC and GL Hartwright,
Abingdon joined them. With the addition of more Spartan power Vincent heading to the ring again in the team of five where the group won reserve. The Great Yorkshire show saw Vincent back on top as Ireland’s Matthew Goulding tapped the bull out as supreme and male champion following his win in the senior bull class. Wrapping up his triumphant tour at the Scottish National at Perth, Vincent shone once more when he was tapped out as first in the senior bull class. Pulled to the front again as senior male champion and again for overall male champion and finally adorned with the supreme champion sash.
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Solpoll 1 Trailblazer
From Nelson, Glamorgan the Bowen family sighted the young bull as a star off farm at 12 months. Boasting impressive EBV’s which places him in the top 5% and 10% across the board, the bull proved this summer that he not only has substance but style to match. His worth not just measured by his own accolades but is being reflecting in his progeny. An example of this is daughter Bowendu 1 Ruby 2nd, coupled with her Dendor bred dam, saw success in the ring in her own right. A son of Solpoll 1 Promoter who was imported as a Canadian embryo, out of Solitude 1 Duchess P946, Trailblazer begun his tour at the Shropshire County show, where he marked himself as a formidable opponent when he was tapped out as interbreed champion. Earlier in the day following leading the senior bull class, he stood native, supreme, and male champion. Hot on the heels of his success at Shropshire County show,
Shows
From the herd of John and William McMordie, Ballygowan, a herd established in 1950’s with the purchase of a Hereford brought onto the holding to service their dairy herd, Solpoll 1 Trailblazer was spotted by breeders L and L Bowen at a young age.
Solpoll 1 Trailblazer from L and L Bowen
Trailblazer took another coveted title in the Royal Bath and West, where this time he stood reserve in the interbreed class, following his success in the breed section taking the ribbons for supreme and male champion. Back on home turf, the team entered the Royal Welsh ring with Trailblazer seeing further victory. Tapped out within the senior class under the watchful gaze of judge Des Kelly, Northern Ireland, saw the bull elevate to supreme male champion and further forward to supreme champion adding to the ever-increasing list of heavy
titles. Mr Kelly commented on the day about the bull’s natural ability, proper form, and power. At the Welsh Winter Fair, Trailblazer was kindly exhibited on the Hereford Cattle Society stand by the Bowen family. He drew a constant crowd of interested parties, both within and outside of agriculture. Many stopping to comment on his size and structure as well as his docility, especially for a bull. It was a great opportunity to showcase an animal who challenges opinions about what a Hereford is capable of.
Read all about it! Scan the QR code to catch up with all the news from the society, showring or industry *all full reports with images are available on the website.
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JC Herefords Liam Jackson-Carr Members of the HiHealth Herdcare Scheme BVD Accredited Herd Eltock Farm, Carlecotes, South Yorkshire S36 4TG
Contact Liam & Damien 07951 066525 damien@bulkgroup.co.uk
Coley 1 Vincent - Joint Bull of the Year Senior Male Champion - Northumberland County Show, Royal Highland Show, Norfolk County Show, Great Yorkshire Show, Scottish National - Perth Show
JC 1 Wilbur - Reserve Junior Male Champion Royal Highland Show
JC 1 Austin - Reserve Junior Male Champion Christmas Calf Show
Once again, the summer show season kicked off with Northern Ireland’s Balmoral Show. Ballygowan’s John and William McMordie marched into the male and supreme champion positions with Solpoll 1 Wolf on its show ring debut. December 2021-born, it is an ET son of New Zealand-bred sire Otapawa Dr Jekyl 25 and being an ET brother to the 2022 NIHBA calf show champion Solpoll 1 Wolfman, it is out of Solpoll 1 Duchess N19, bred from the Duchess line at Dorepoll. It also took the red ticket in the intermediate bull class. With the McMordies taking the double, female and reserve supreme championships were secured by Shancorpoll 1 Oll1 Uakea bred by Brian Duignan, Cavan, Ireland having been purchased as a surprise 70th birthday present for John. Born in April 2021, it is a daughter of Fabb 1 Northen Star and also won the January to June 2021 heifer class.
Solpoll 1 Wolf from J and W McMordie
Having crossed the Irish Sea from its South Wales breeders, Porton House 1 Poppy 2nd also took the reserve female position. Shown by Ciara Fitzpatrick, it was bred by Paul and Vicky Moyle, Gwent and purchased at 2,800gns from the autumn show and sale at Shrewsbury in 2022. The junior and reserve male championships were won by Glenside Trillick from R and S Pogue, Benburb, Co Tyrone. By Corlismore Commander, its the first calf out of Trillick Tamara and was shown at 15 months of age, having also led the junior bull class. Reserve to this young bull in the junior championship was another from the McMordies’ stable – this time, March 2022-born Solpoll 1 Amber W14. Sired by the 2021 Balmoral reserve male champion Solpoll 1 Real Good, it is out of a home bred Moeskaer Upgrade daughter. The heifer was also native, and reserve interbreed beef performance champion. Elsewhere in the classes, Richmount 1 Ruby Royale from James Graham, Portadown, Co Armagh, led the senior female class at five and a half years old with its calf atfoot. An AI daughter of Irish sire Grousehallpoll 1 Premier, it is out of a home bred Richmount 1 King Kong daughter.
Shancorpoll 1 Oll1 Uakea from J and W McMordie
545E, a previous Balmoral reserve female champion. Perfection’s first calf, Dorepoll 1 Sally 679, was also last year’s champion. The progeny pair was won by John and William McMordie with Wolf and Wildfire, both sired by Otapawa Dr Jekyl. These two bulls became part of the winning group of three from John and William McMordie.
The July to December 2021 born heifer class saw success for Annaghbeg Georgina 957 from Mark and Lawrence Moore, Aughnacloy, Co Tyrone having stood senior and female champion at the NIHBA calf show in November 2022. Born in December 2021 this heifer has a pedigree stacked with home-bred genetics being sired by Annaghbeg Gladiator and out of the first calver, Annaghbeg Georgina.
During the week’s interbreed classes, Herberry 1 Humberto and Shancorpoll 1 Uakea stood native interbreed pairs champion. The same pair plus Porton House1 Poppy 2nd took reserve in the group of three. The last class of the week was the native team of five competition, represented by the same animals from the group of three along with Richmount 1 Ruby Royale and Dorepoll 1 Sally 679 from JE, RI and W Haire and took another reserve for the breed.
Ivan Haire and family were winners of the senior bull class with the six year old stock bull Dorepoll 1 639 Perfection, which carries a pedigree full of home breeding being a son of Manhatten and out of Tessa
The interbreed stock judging was won by the team of Trevor Andrews, Henry Richmond, Bradley Graham and Holly Taggart with Henry Richmond placing highest individual.
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Balmoral Show
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Royal Bath and West Solpoll 1 Trailblazer from L and L Bowen, took reserve interbreed, supreme and male champion. Trailblazer also went on to stand interbreed champion pair with stablemate Bowendu 1 Ruby 2nd. Reserve supreme and reserve male champion was Midford 1 Whatyalookinat from Will Awan, Midford, Bath, as tapped out by judge Ryan Coates, Leicestershire. Born in March 2022, it is by Intelagri 1 Jaguar L, a Fisher 1 Jaguar J347 son and out of a Panmure 1 Henry daughter, Intelagri 1 Rosie. This young bull also won junior native interbreed bull.
Solpoll 1 Trailblazer
The female championship was another title to head back over the Severn Bridge with the Bowen family as Bowendu 1 Ruby 2nd moved to the fore before
NANCY HEREFORDS BREEDING PURE BREED HEREFORD HEIFERS AND BULLS
Midford 1 Whatyalookinat from Will Awan also winning reserve native interbreed champion heifer. January-born, it is a daughter of the day’s supreme champion Solpoll 1 Trailblazer and out of Dendor 1 Ruby 23rd which was third place female of the year in both 2019 and 2017, having also taken the supreme championship at Shepton Mallet. Hudley 1 Luna from Harriet Jackson, Gundleton, Hampshire stood reserve female champion. By AI sire Gouldingpoll 1 Stockman, it is out of Solpoll 1 Ferrari daughter, Hudley 1 Lucy.
N.I.H.B.A HERDS COMPETITION OVERALL HERD OF THE YEAR 2022
YOUNG STOCK ALWAYS FOR SALE Contact: G & T Morton 07761979806 glennmorton@hotmail.co.uk FIND US ON FACEBOOK: NANCY HEREFORDS | EST 2014. VISITORS ALWAYS WELCOME
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National Poll Show It was certainly a day dominated by female power at The National Poll Hereford Show, held at Moreton-in-Marsh. Judge Mrs Mary Reynolds, Bordan, Hants, made history as the first female judge to proceed over what attendees would say is the most anticipated show in the poll breeders’ calendar. With many entries to choose from, Mrs Reynolds had the challenging task of selecting this year’s champion but came armed with the desire to find ‘a modern, well fleshed, clean animal with tremendous locomotion’. The weather was kind, which helped drawing the crowds to the ringside, including television personality Jeremy Clarkson and his partner, Lisa Hogan, much to the delight of Top Gear and Clarkson’s Farms fans within the Hereford tent.
Supreme Champion, Junior Champion, Junior Female Champion and winner of the heifer born on or after 1st November 2022. Porton House 1 Jane 4th from Paul & Vicky Moyle
The appearance of Mr Clarkson was soon overshadowed by what the judge described as a ‘sweet clean and modern heifer’. Yet to celebrate her first birthday, Porton House 1 Jane 4th, from Paul and Vicky Moyle, Newport, Gwent, hit a career-high on her first outing securing her a permanent position within the Porton House herd. First stepping into the ring, Jane won her class ‘heifer, born on or after 1st November 2022’ there she moved from strength to strength again catching the judges’ eye, claiming both Junior and Grand Female rosettes. After having a brief rest within the straw, she returned to the ring to claim the overall Junior Champion title and the coveted Supreme Champion ribbon. A previous Christmas Calf Show winner Rempstone 1 Bonny N655 from M.Ludgate, Thame, Oxfordshire saw sucess on the Saturday. With winning blood being in her DNA, Bonnys sire, Dendor 1 Nairobi, won the Junior Male Champion title at both the National Poll Show and Kington in 2016, at six months of age. Mary commended the heifer on how well she paraded and again for being a ‘nice modern sort’. Bonny started her streak of wins in Heifer born on or between 1st April 2022 and 30th April 2022, climbing up the ladder taking the intermediate female and reserve grand female title and finishing the day alongside Porton House 1 Jane 4th as reserve overall champion. Kingsland 1 Wolf has totted up a ream of awards this
Reserve Champion, Intermediate Female Champion, and winner of the Heifer born on or between 1st April and 30th April 2022, Rempstone 1 Bonny N655 from M. Ludgate summer, parading rings from Yorkshire to Builth Wells. Working his magic at Moreton, this March 2022-born bull from S and H O’Kane, Adfa, Powys first caught Judge Mary’s eye in Bull born on or between 1st March and 30th April 2022 class. He went on to increase his rosette collection, claiming the top spot in intermediate male championship and finishing on a high with Grand Male Champion. A son of the 2018 Royal Welsh champion Gouldingpoll 1 Moonshine, it is out of Kingsland 1 Lily 1st which is from the Lily line at Dendor. Moving up the ranks alongside Kingsland 1 Wolf, Normanton 1 Warnie W980 was tapped out as reserve in the grand male and intermediate male championship. From TD & WT Livesey, sired by Gouldingpoll 1 Gold Spice. Coming out on top in the junior male championship and claiming reserve in the overall junior championship,
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following success in his class bull born on or between 1st September and 31st October 2022, was Coley 1 Alexander from Heather Whittaker. Sired by Dendor 1 Sherlock, out of Kammerherre Kati. Another Coley bull bringing home the goods, Coley 1 Ariel took reserve junior male champion, alongside stablemate Alexander, owning the junior bull championship, after winning red in bull born on or after 1st November 2022. Part of the winning team of three, Spartan 1 Jen 4th, from SC & GL Hartwright, stood as reserve intermediate female champion after being tapped out as first in Heifer born on or between 1st March and 31st March 2022. Sired by Solpoll 1 Perfection, last year’s sire of the year and out of Englefield 1 Jen 5th. Rempstone 1 Fashion N584 from M Ludgate, Thame Oxfordshire, saw previous success as the bridesmaid in the senior female championship at Moreton last year but this year steps up to claim the senior female champion rosette following her success in her class, senior cow with her own calf-at-foot. By Solpoll 1 Nobility, she is out of Kinglee 1 Fashion 304, which goes back to Costhorpe breeding. Another success story from the Keadyview herd saw Keadyview 1 Pippa Kicks named reserve senior female champion following her class win. Hot on the tail of her success gaining the same title at Buck County Show days prior. Mary described Pippa Kicks as ‘a long, clean modern heifer’. Brought forward by the judge for her size and power, Sky high 1 Lavish Lucy, from B. Birch & G Brindley took home the reserve junior champion accolade following her success in heifer born on or between 1st September and 31st October 2022. Sired by Gouldingpoll 1 Stockman, out of Sky high 1 L’amour Lucy. Following success in his class, bull born on or between 1st January and 31st August 2021, Reserve Senior Male Champion title was taken home by Kinglee 1 Verlou from Pete Cobley, Stoney Stanton, Leicestershire. By the 3100gns Cleland 1 Nelson, he is out of Kinglee 1 Nicole. Standing beside Kinglee 1 Verlou as reserve senior male was Spartan 1 Voyager SP V138, from SC & GL Hartwright, sired by Solpol 1 Perfection, out of Panmure 1 Plum K19, the full brother to the Spartan hero Spartan 1 Typhoon. Typhoon had a whirlwind season last year sweeping up at the National Poll show, and Great Yorkshire show, moving on to be named champion of Europe as well as UK Bull of the Year. This well-admired bull then closed the year on a high, breaking records for a poll sale reaching 16000gns at Designer Genes. Newtoncroft 1 Whole Lot of Fun from Newtoncroft Farms, sired by Hawkesbury 1 Swift took home the red rosette in Bull born on or between 1st January and 28th February 2022. Dendor 1 Jano 23rd, sired by Pepperstock 1 Trigger from D.E., E.D. & A.L. Jones, was tapped out as the victor in heifer born on or between 1st May and 31st August 2022. Earlier this season, Jano 23rd snagged the red
rosette at the Royal Welsh show in her class heifer born after April ’22. Dendor 1 Atlas has had a busy summer, attended three shows, and won at each. The latest of these triumphs for D.E., E.D. & A.L. Jones, is his Bull born on or between 1st May and 31st August 2022. Winning Heifer born between 1st September and 31st December 2020, with her own calf-at-foot born in 2023, Rempstone 1 Anna Mary D594, bred by M Ludgate and owned by Dr E Williams. Dr E Williams, Denbighshire, Holetown Herd joined the society in 2022 and purchased Anna Mary at the Designer Genes sale for 6,000gns. Allwood 1 Greta from F.J Wood & Sons, sired by Kilvrough 1 Thomas, out of Dendor 1 Greta 33 won heifer born on or between 1st January 2022 and 28th February 2022. R & R.I Shaw, Ledsham, Cheshire saw success in the pairs with Hallwood 1 Sprite, sired by Hallwood 1 Theodore and Hallwood 1 Apollo, sired by Dorepoll 1 93N Nationwide. Both groups of three classes were led by a trio from SC & GL Hartwright, with the progeny group all sired by Solpoll 1 Perfection, this being the second consecutive year the Spartan herd have come out on top in the group classes.
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NIHBA National Show At a wet Clogher Valley Show the NIHBA held their National Show with 12 exhibitors putting on a great display of cattle for a good crowd of spectators. UK Society Breed President David Smyth from Magheraknock Herefords, Ballynahinch was the judge tasked with placing the 48 entries with Fane Valley kindly sponsoring the classes.
Griananpoll 1 Vegas was tapped out Supreme Champion for Robin Irvine, Whitecross
Taking the Supreme championship was the March 2021 born Griananpoll 1 Vegas owned by Robin Irvine. Bought in Southern Ireland from Anslem Fitzgerald he is sired by Gouldingpoll 1 Moonshine with Dendor 1 Greta as a dam. Vegas started his day winning the senior bull class before taking the Male Championship. Following all the way through from the same class to the Reserve Supreme was Nathanial Shaw’s Sessiagh 1 Vin Disel . A homebred Normanton 1 Laertes son his dam is the homebred Sessiagh 1 Olga, he had picked up several rosettes since first shown as a calf in 2021. Taking the Female Championship was Porton House 1 Poppy 2nd, owned by new breeder Ciara Fitzpatrick. Born in March 2021 this Dendor 1 Sherlock and Porton House 1 Poppy daughter was bred by Paul & Vicky Moyle in Wales and had already stood Reserve Female Championship at Balmoral Show.
Reserve Supreme Champion from Nathaniel Shaw Benburb was Sessiagh 1 Vin Diesel
David Wilson’s Lisrace Landlady stood Reserve Female Championship after winning the Junior Heifer Class. A daughter of Glaslough Unique and the homebred Lisrace Landlady, born in January 2022 she also collected the Exhibitor Bred Female & Junior Female Championships. The calf championship was won by local exhibitor Harry Browne with his Solpoll 1 Pounder daughter, Clogher Valley 1 Clover. Born in March 2023 her dam was Clonliff 1 Keelan. Alan Shaw brought a strong team of calves, leading his team was the November 2022 bull calf Benburb 1 Alan. Sired by Fabb 1 Northern Star he won his class and was Reserve Calf Champion. Alan Shaw also took the progeny pair and the best exhibitor bred group of 3, all sired by Fabb 1 Northern Star. Raymond & Stuart Pogue were the winners of the 2 remaining bull classes, first was 2-year-old Tullymore 1 Shrek, sired by the homebred Tullymore 1 Nixen. Following in the next class was Glenside Trillick, a February 2022 born Corlismore Commander son, after winning his class he was placed Junior Male Champion, the same award he had lifted at Balmoral Show. John & William McMordie also lifted 2 class wins, first
Overall Female Champion for Ciara Fitzpatrick was Porton House 1 Poppy 2nd in the Intermediate heifer Class with Solpoll 1 Starlet W1, a 22-month-old daughter of Grousehallpoll 1 Premier. Solpoll 1 Starlet A4 a September 2022 born Solpoll 1 Perfection daughter won the Senior Heifer Calf class and was Reserve Exhibitor bred heifer and Reserve Junior Female Champion. First class of the day was the cow class, won by Cornriggs 1 Vanity from Marcus Murdock. Born in 2016 and sired by Cornriggs 1 Superguy she was shown with a smart heifer calf at foot. The young handlers class was won by Bobby Morton, Nancy Herefords.
The opening Traditional Hereford breed classes of the year were held at the Royal Welsh Spring Festival where the sun shone on the line-up, attracting exhibitors from far and wide. Standing in the overall breed championship spot was maiden heifer Albany Lindy, bred and exhibited by the Cook family, Cambridgeshire. Sired by Willow Grange Louis, a son of MMB bull Summerpole Norseman bred by J Duggan in 1972, this heifer also represents the prolific L family at Albany which originates from the famous Wigmore Grange tribe bred by AP Turner at The Leen, Herefordshire.
Albany Lindy from L Cook
The reserve championship went to another from both the same home and the same maiden heifer class, Albany Model 2nd also sired by Willow Grange Louis. Judge Alun Thomas of Premier poll Herefords, Carmarthenshire described the contest between the two heifers as very close, and had deliberated for some time about his decision, settling on the winner for its length and style. In the male section, it was the two-year-old Carpenters Monarchist, another from Helen MacLeod which won the class for bulls of any age. A full brother to last year’s male champion at the event, this bull is sired by Shefford Monarch, bred by Mr P Carter.
Albany Model 2nd from L Cook
Alun Thomas ended his day’s judging by thanking all the exhibitors in the cattle section and those behind the scenes for their hard work towards the event, and the staff and stewards at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society for their fantastic hospitality and organisation. Alun and his wife Anwen, are involved in running the Welsh Multibreed Pedigree Calf Show at Carmarthen Livestock Market, which sported a strong Hereford section in 2022.
Results Breed champion and female champion, Albany Lindy, L Cook Reserve breed champion and reserve female champion, Albany Model 2nd, L Cook
Carpenters Monarchist from H MacLeod Heifer in-calf, 1st, Albany Prettymaid 30th, L Cook; 2nd, Gavelock Sarah, P and E Lynn; 3rd, Caebach Unity Amorous, N and R Johnson
Bull, any age, 1st, Carpenters Monarchist, H MacLeod
Maiden heifer, 1st, Albany Lindy, L Cook; 2nd, Albany Model 2nd, L Cook; 3rd, Hockerwood Caroline, P and E Lynn; 4th, Rhydri Heidi Laura, G Crow
Cow or heifer with calf at-foot, 1st, Carpenters Laura, H MacLeod
Calf under 12 months of age, 1st Albany Leona, Mr L Cook; 2nd, Lower Eaton Io Sylvia 54th, M Horton
Male champion Carpenters Monarchist, H MacLeod
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Royal Welsh Spring Festival
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Shropshire County Taking the interbreed accolade at Shropshire County Show was Solpoll 1 Trailblazer, having stood native, supreme and male champion, along with the lead in the senior bull class. Trailblazer also went on to stand interbreed champion pair with stablemate Bowendu 1 Ruby 2nd. Standing next to Trailblazer Solpoll 1 Trailblazer from L & L in the supreme Bowen championship was Spartan 1 Victoria’s Secret, taking the reserve position. Bred and exhibited by SC and GL Hartwright, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, the 2022 UK show herd of the year, it too is heavily influenced by Solpoll breeding, being a son of the 8,000gns UK sire of the year Solpoll 1 Perfection. Last year, this September 2020-born female took red tickets in its class at Shropshire and at the Royal Highland. Hallwood 1 Lady Jewel from R and RI Shaw, Wirral stood reserve female champion having won the July 2020 to 30 June 2021 heifer class. By AI sire Fabb 1 Northern Star it is out Hallwood 1 Jewel, a daughter of Canadian embryo import, Hallwood 1 Nibbs. The reserve male champion title also headed to Oxfordshire with Spartan 1 Voyager SP V138 from SC and GL Hartwright coming to the fore. Born in March 2021, it is another by Solpoll 1 Perfection which has done so well for the breeders. It is out of Panmure 1 Plum K19, a daughter of Hawkesbury 1 Volcano and stood reserve intermediate champion at the National Poll Show as well as reserve male champion at the Royal Norfolk. The July to December 2021 bull class was led by M and C Shaw, Ilmington, Warwickshire with Thornysure 1 Willy Wonka. Out of Solpoll 1 Ferrari daughter Kinaston 1 Neala, it is by Fisher 1 Monarch, a superior carcase sire purchased at the 2017 spring show and sale for 6,000gns. The most junior bull class forward saw success for January 2022-born Hallwood 1 Apollo. By yet another Canadian embryo import, this time Dorepoll 1 93N Nationwide, it is out of a home-bred dam. In the females, the senior class was led by locals G Llewellyn and D Sharman, Weston Heath, Shropshire with Harvest 1 Alice and its calf at-foot. By Hollyvalle 1 Neville purchased at the 2017 autumn show and sale
Reserve supreme and female champion – Spartan 1 Victoria’s Secret from SC and GL Hartwright for 3,000gns where it also stood grand male champion, it is out of Shraden 1 Alice R863 which was bought out of Shrewsbury in 2019 for 2,200gns. The July to December 2021 heifer class was won by young members A and N Hughes, Llanwyddelan, Powys with the October 2021-born Ashnan 1 Fancy Kicks, a Moralee 1 Rebel Kicks son. Also with Moralee breeding on its maternal side, it is out of Moralee 1 Dainty 1st. A previous Christmas calf show junior champion, Bowendu 1 Ruby 2nd from L and L Bowen attracted the red ticket in the January to March heifer class. January-born, it is a daughter of the day’s supreme champion Solpoll 1 Trailblazer and out of Dendor 1 Ruby 23rd which was third place female of the year in both 2019 and 2017. On the show scene, it took reserve supreme champion at the 2019 Royal Cornwall Show, supreme at the Royal Bath and West, Devon County and Pembroke Shows. The junior heifer class saw RJ and PS Windsor, Sound, Cheshire come to the fore with Sound’s Villa 1 Fashion 2nd. With its maternal line going back to Costhorpe breeding, it is by Australian AI sire Wirruna Peace P198. The pairs class was won by SC and GL Hartwright as well as the group of three.
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Taking the supreme and male championships in the Traditional section at Shropshire County was Albany Sailor from FW Cook and son, Fen End, Cambridgeshire. By Albany Lincoln, this May 2021-born bull out of Albany Sable, a Boresisle Lawrence daughter. This young bull is entered for the Traditional Hereford Breeders’ Club Grass Masters sale. In reserve was February 2021-born Gavelock Sarah from P and E Lynn, Southwell, Nottinghamshire. Bred by C Redmayne, Over, Cambridgeshire it was purchased at the 2022 Grass Masters sale. Another by Albany Lincoln, it is out of Gavelock Sybilla, which is also a Boresisle Lawrence daughter.
Albany Sailor from FW Cook and son
Gavelock Sarah from P and E Lynn
Junior champion and winner of the John Featherstone Trophy was Carpenters Monroe from Malvernbased Helen MacLeod. January 2021-born, it is out of home-bred female and by the prolific Shefford Monarch. The heifer born on or after 1st January 2022 class was won by Albany Prettymaid 32nd, anther from L Cook. Out of an Albany Lincoln sired home-bred female, it is by Willow Grange Louis, a bull bred by Mrs F Dunne, Chittering, Cambridgeshire.
Carpenters Monroe from H MacLeod
Shows
Shropshire County Traditionals
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Coley 1 Vincent from Liam Jackson-Carr was tapped out as supreme and male champion Coley 1 Vincent at this year’s Scottish National Show in Perth, as well as senior male champion and winning the senior bull class. Starting within bull born on or between 1st March 22 and 31st July 22, Harveybros 1 Willy-The-Womanizer, from G&S Harvey, Balfron, Glasgow, claimed the red ribbon, then moving ahead came out on top in the junior male championship. From there, he joined Vincent in the overall male championship and supreme championship, being named as reserve in both classes. Coley 1 Alexander started the bull classes by winning first in the junior bull class. Bred and exhibited by Heather Whittaker, Halifax. By Dendor 1 Sherlock, out of Kammerherre Kati. The day went on seeing this young bull winning reserve champion in the junior male championship, alongside Harveybros 1 Willy-The-Womanizer. Last year saw Milovaig 1 Vindicator win reserve junior male champion, owned by GD & Mr Poyser. Back again a year older, Vindicator hasn’t lost the winning touch within the championships, seeing him claim reserve in the senior male championship. Born in May 2021, by Shraden 1 Perestroika and out of Milovaig 1 Bonnie Belle 6th. Bennachie 1 Wizard led the bull born on or between 1st August 21 and 28th February 22 class, earning himself the red ticket. Wizard bred I Skea, Aberdeenshire, was sired by Solpoll 1 Lawman, the supreme champion at Tullamore Show in 2016 and 2017.
Harveybros 1 Willie-The-Womanizer from G&S Harvey. her mother, Gouldingpoll 1 Duchess 916, to name a few of her successes. Following her win in the senior female class, leading to her victory as senior female champion, Drumboy 1 Sophia finished her day with reserve within the overall female championship. Bred by Gavin Dunbar from Lanarkshire, Sophia, sired by Romany 1 Distiller A84 D53 grandsire Venture Night Time 7055 ET. Bennachie 1 Amy 5th started her day claiming the top spot in Heifer/Cow in Milk or in calf born on or before 1st August 20 and 31st July 21. From I Skea, Aberdeenshire, Amy went forward to win reserve senior female champion. First time entering the ring and taking it all in her stride, Harveybros 1 Crocus Absolut-Rose, again from George and Sophie Harvey, won the junior heifer class at Perth. From sire, Moralee 1 Roland Rat KS R16, whose progeny saw prices up to 2,500gns in Stirling in February this year, Baldinnie 1 Chico 17th, from JA Cameron & son from Balbuthie Fife, was lifted in first in heifer born on or after 1st March 22 and 31st July 22. In the young handlers’ section, Molly Poyser, age 15, won the senior class. Fletcher Russell, age 12, took first in a well-represented junior class.
Former Stars of the Future calf show winner, heifer Panmure 1 Plum W1 from JM Cant and partners, Arbirlot, Angus, was brought forward to claim first in her class heifer born on or after 1st August 21 and 28th February 22. Plum saw further success in the junior female championship, earning the Champion title and then finishing on a high, taking the overall female champion title. Alongside Panmure 1 Plum W1, as reserve junior female champion, was Coley 1 Duchess 609 from Heather Whittaker, Halifax. In 2022, Duchess claimed Champion at Agri Expo, reserve female and junior champion at the highland and reserve supreme champion at the foot of
Panmure 1 Plum W1 from JM Cant and partners
Shows
Scottish National Show
“Outstanding”
Clive Roads
MEAHBA HERD JUDGE 2023
Five times consecutive winners of the Midlands & East Anglia Herd Competition - 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023 National Herd Competition Runner-up - 2021 & 2023 Horned Herd of the Year - 2023
Pulham Admiral Supreme Champion National Hereford Show & Horned Bull of the Year 2023
Best of the Bulls 2022 Come and take a look at the 2023 crop....
Pulham Admiral
Sire: Mawarra Influential Q162 Dam: Pulham Hazel 15th
Pulham 1 Archer
Sire: Solpoll 1 Sympa
Pulham Arthur
Sire: Mawarra Influential Q162
Pulham 1 Achillies
Sire: Appel 1 Kaboom
Sold to Benacre Estates
Sold to Noborough Herefords Dam: Pulham Princess Pansy 5th
Pulham 1 Albus
Sold to Bosbury Herefords
Sire: Solpoll 1 Sympa
Dam: Pulham 1 Lucy 2nd
Sold to Benacre Estates Dam: Pulham 1 Hazel 14th
Res.Senior Male Champ. Shrewsbury Calf Show
Pulham 1 Antarctic For Sale
Dam: Pulham 1 Curly 3rd
Sire: Days Horizon M028 Dam: Solpoll 1 Starlet K15
De-horned & Polled Bulls, Females, Semen & Embryos For Sale www.pulhamherefords.co.uk Philip & Laura Vincent 01379 676906 Philip - 07771 697866 Laura - 07767 838208
SAC Elite Health Herd Thank you to all our customers. Visitors always welcome
White House Farm Pulham Market Diss IP21 4XT
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National Horned Show Waterproofs and an umbrella were a must this year at Tenbury show. Both handler and beast appreciative of the livestock tents. Despite this, the show was far from a washout with nearly fifty quality animals on parade. Armed with high expectations of what he expected from the breed displayed on the day, Mr Richard Bartle, from Hereford oversaw the proceedings. Richard is a keen pedigree breeder, recently returning from the Royal Welsh show as an exhibitor this year. The animal to catch the judge’s eye taking home the coveted overall supreme champion rosette and trophy was Pulham Admiral from PRJ & LR Vincent. Despite his age, this young bull dominated the ring throughout the day, following his win in the Bull Calf born in September 2022 class, earning the Pulham herd multiple championship titles and the best exhibitor-bred accolade.
Pulham Admiral from PRJ & LR Vincent – Bull Calf born in Sep ‘22, Junior Male Champion, Grand Male Champion, Supreme Champion, Best Exhibitor Bred
Outside Tenbury show, Admiral was named best bull calf for the ‘Midlands and East Anglia Herd competition’ last month. Judged by Clive Roads, another of Admirals admirers, who sighted a bright future for this animal. Sired by Mawarra Influential Q162, purchased by a syndicate comprising of PRJ and LR Vincent, E L Lewis and son and Graham Genetics (Australia) for AUS$42,000. Influential is having the desired effect both parties hoped to see within their herds, seeing his progeny taking home numerous titles on Saturday. Alongside Admiral in reserve, was Pulham Tiara 5th exhibited by James & Ellen Lake. Bred by the Supreme Champion winner, PRJ and LR Vincent, Tiara was purchased in 2019 at the Designer Genes sale for £4,095. Mr Bartle brought her forward for ‘her width throughout’ and how she embodied the maternal values of the Hereford breed – rearing her calf well at foot whilst keeping in good condition, in-calf herself. Tiara, started with a first within the senior cow class before moving ahead to win senior female champion and then grand female champion before claiming reserve overall, comes from a line of National Hereford Show champions. Haven Kermit, Tiara’s sire, took Supreme Champion at the National Hereford Show in 2014. Kermit’s sire, Haven Cavalier, a Churchill Storm V583 son, was Senior Male Champion at the National Hereford Show in 2010. Free Town Wealth entered the ring last year and took home first in his class. Back for a second year, Wealth
Pulham Tiara 5th from James & Ellen Lake, Bred by PRJ & LR Vincent – 1st Senior Cow Class, Senior Female Champion, Grand Female Champion, Reserve Champion surpassed his success from 2022, winning not only bull born on or between September ’21 and February ’22 but Intermediate Male Champion and finishing alongside Admiral as reserve Grand Male Champion. Owned and bred by R A Bradstock & Partners, from Herefordshire, Wealth comes from a long line of Free Town dams. Winning the senior bull class, Haven Rover, owned by D J Makin, bred by E L Lewis and Son, went on to uphold the family tradition by following his sire, Haven Lamborghini, the 2019 Senior Male Champion, by claiming this year’s Senior Male Champion title. Sired by Pute Nascar N13, a New Zealand bull bred by Anna & Brent Fisher of Silverstream Hereford herd, Heath House Virgil from R & EC Lywood, took Reserve Senior Champion. Severnvale Rogue, from E G Mills, was tapped out by Richard within bull born on or between March and August ‘22 class, placed alongside Free Town Wealth as reserve intermediate male champion. The Haven herd took home the red rosette within the
213 The Pulham prefix repeated over the commentary throughout the day, with both animals within the Grand Female Championship bred by Vincents. Pulham Tiara 8th, from PRJ & LR Vincents herd, who’s breeding again sees the Australian bull, Mawarra Influential Q162’s influence and winning touch, Tiara 8th won Junior Female Champion and reserve Grand Female Champion, following her victory in heifer born in September ’22. Half-sister to the Supreme Champion, Admiral and Junior Female Champion, Tiara 8th, Pulham Dowager 10th, won in the junior heifer class. Pulham Dowager 8th teamed up with Tiara 8th to win the pairs competition and with addition of Pulham Arthur were brought forward to achieve first in the group of 3 class. Elsewhere on the day, Sparkwood Pansy 11th, from Mrs L Jackson, previously attended the show in 2018, re-enters the ring victorious, taking reserve in the senior female championship.
Mrs S A Cowle’s HighHedges team, followed a string of wins throughout the day. First of which was HighHedges Diadem 9-21, tapped out by Mr Bartle in heifer born on or between September ’21 and February ’22. Then HighHedges Blossom 25-22 taking first in heifer born on or between March ‘22 and August ’22. The pair share the same sire, homebred HighHedges Synergist, in 2019 gained the reserve supreme champion title. Blossom held the advantage finishing the friendly between the two stable mates, winning Intermediate Female Champion with Diadem as reserve. The president of the Hereford Cattle Society, David Smyth of Co Down, Magheraknock herd, made the trip across the water to enjoy the spectacle “The horned show is one of the highlights of the year as far as I’m concerned being a horned breeder myself. However, it is sad to see that the numbers have declined over recent years having said that we had a good turnout of stock today, weather wasn’t that kind but eventually dried up and it was nice to see it all going according to plan.” On its 37th year at Tenbury show the society receives a great support from the show community. Anthony Bunn, the president of Tenbury show, visited the Hereford section whilst classes were in full swing and commented that “In my eye they [Hereford cattle] are one of the best breeds Britain has to offer and the standard today has been first class.”
Devon County Show FJ Wood and sons, Morleigh, Devon went all the way on home soil at Devon County Show, picking up the supreme championship and reserve as well as both the champion male and reserve titles. Tapped out as breed champion by Northamptonshire’s Martin Coates was Solpoll 1 Pansy T17, bred by John and William McMordie, Ballygowan, Co Down shown with its Fabb 1 Top Prize sired heifer calf at-foot. Born in April 2020, it is by Danish-bred Moeskaer Mentos. Purchased in-calf at the 2022 spring show and sale at 6,200gns, it has a pedigree full of success, with its dam a full sister to Solpoll 1 Lawman. What’s more, its grand dam is a full sister to Solpoll 1 Gilbert, the three times UK sire of the year, having also sired five females of the year. Standing in the reserve supreme and female champion spot was February 2021-born Lanscombe 1 Cilla from regular Devon County winners, RA Mitchell, Dorchester. By Lanscombe 1 Wizard, it is out of Lanscombe 1 Winkie, a daughter of Brangwyn 1 Emperor, bred by the Roderick family, Gower, Swansea. The Wood family dominated the male championships, with Dendor 1 Triple H taking the reserve supreme and
Solpoll 1 Pansy T17 from FJ Wood male champion titles. Bred by DE, ED and AL Jones, Caersws, Powys, this April 2020-born bull also goes back to Brangwyn 1 Emperor on its paternal side, being a Dendor 1 Nairobi son. Last year, Triple H stood reserve male champion at Shropshire County and a secondplace card in its National Poll Show class. It was the turn of February 2022-born Rempstone 1 Wasabi to take the reserve male championship, again from the Wood family. Another Nairobi son, it is out Rempstone 1 Anna Mary N506, which stood reserve supreme and female champion at the 2022 National Poll Show while under ownership of the exhibitors.
Shows
junior bull class with Haven Amazon, sired from Haven Voltage and Haven Louisa 70th, some who’s progeny was sold last year within the bicentenary sale at E L Lewis and Sons farm in Herefordshire. Another victory within the Haven herd, saw Haven Akubra claim the reserve junior male champion spot. Akubra being another bull with star quality sired by Mawarra Influential Q162.
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Royal Welsh Show Despite an unseasonably cold and wet start to the first day at Solpoll 1 Trailblazer from L & L Bowen the show, the cattle shed was abuzz with activity. Bodies moving around beasts, coats brushed, finishing touches applied, and farmers doing what they do best – tending to the welfare of their animals ahead of a busy day. As if by divine intervention, the rain stopped when the Herefords stepped into the show ring, and things continued to heat up. Under the watchful eye of Mr Des Kelly, Northern Ireland, the Hereford classes were thoroughly assessed and enjoyed. New to the Royal Welsh, Mr Kelly had been invited to judge previously with his debut delayed due to the pandemic. Mr Kelly, gave some insight into a judge’s perspective and explained what he was hoping to see. “I came to the show hoping to see animals that weren’t unnecessarily pushed, with natural muscle, power and clean throughout. It was well worth the wait!” he said. At the end of the Hereford classes, the animal leaving with the coveted Supreme Champion rosette and sash was Solpoll 1 Trailblazer, adding another championship title to his ever-increasing resume this season following his success as Supreme Male Champion and first within the Senior Bull Class on Monday. His progeny Bowendu 1 Ruby took second prize later in the morning, scooping up both heifer born between January and March 2022 and overall female champion, following in her sire’s hoof prints in doing so. To add to an already strong start Ruby later in the week, claimed reserves in both the exhibitor-bred championship and the junior heifer interbreed beef championship, despite fierce competition. Another well-decorated member of the Bowendu herd, Ruby is no stranger to the ring. Winner of the heifer born between Jan and March class at Shropshire County Show in May and a previous Christmas Calf Show junior champion. Brought forward by Mr Kelly, he said ‘She had the style, lovely head, and a clean and nice power whilst remaining feminine’.
Bowendu 1 Ruby 2nd Champion from L&L Bowen Having only been members since 2016, L&L Bowen, Nelson, Glamorgan are delighted to have gained success on home soil. Another bull who took the ring by storm, earning seven titles throughout the four days, was Harveybros 1 WillyThe-Womanizer from G&S Harvey. Born in March 2022 from father and daughter double act: George and Sophie Harvey, Willy’s success made the 345-mile journey from Balfron, Glasgow to Builth Wells worthwhile. He sits comfortably in reserve supreme champion besides Trailblazer, following his win in bull born between Jan and April ’22 class, exhibitor bred champion, junior bull interbreed reserve champion, breed male reserve champion, and Elite Junior Bull champion. “The junior bull champion, I really liked,” remarked Des Kelly “Long, clean, wide and carried width and power through the back end, which helped place him as overall reserve champion.” The trio have been familiar faces within the show circuit this season winning the junior bull class at The Royal Highland Show in June and male and junior male champion at the 2022 Agri Expo. As the week drew on, Willy once again donned his show halter to re-enter the ring finishing the week on a high by seizing the junior interbreed native breed championship title. Within the female breed championship, Kingsland 1 Starlet 22 was selected by Des Kelly as the reserve champion, revealing that there was a fine margin between first and second place. “My reserve female champion was a smooth and correct heifer who was lovely through the shoulder and back”. He commented. Brought to the show from Vaughan Farms, Kingsland, Herefordshire, born March 2022, this heifer, sired by 2018 Royal Welsh Show Supreme champion and Three
215 Counties Show Male Champion. Another heifer moving from strength to strength, Starlet claimed reserve junior female at the Three Counties show in June.
Shows
The Kingsland herd saw further success, with Kingsland 1 Wolf achieving reserve champion within the junior bull championship. A half-brother to the reserve female champion, sire Gouldingpoll Moonshine has been stamping his progeny with the winning gene. E L Lewis & Son brought Havenfield 1 Weston across the border to seek success in Llanelwedd. Weston did not disappoint, winning his class bull born between Sep and Dec ‘21. Bred by E L Lewis & Son, Weston is by Solpoll 1 Lawman the supreme champion at the Tullamore show in 2016 and 2017; grandsire is also Panmure 1 Henry. Earning the red rosette for bull born on or after May 2022 was DE, ED & AL Jones’ Dendor 1 Atlas, one of the more local exhibitors. DE, ED & AL Jones have been members of the society since 1963, seeing multiple successes in the Christmas Calf. Dendor 1 Atlas’ half-sister, Dendor 1 Jano 23rd, sired by Pepperstock 1 Trigger, mirrored Atlas’ success in winning the junior breed heifer class. The female classes started with a smaller but wellrepresented senior female class, seeing the daughter of 2019 sire of the year, SMH Kingsize 87K, Moralee 1 Ruth from Glynis and David Sherman, bred by Tom and Di Harrison, come out on top. In the Heifer with calf or calf at foot class born between Jan and Aug 2021, third-generation Bromley bred Bromley 1 Thunya 953 caught the judge’s eye and proceeded to win the class. From Studdolph Vogue lines, with bloodlines leading back to their original polled purchase in 2005, Dendor 1 Greta 5th, Studdolph 1 Vogue saw red with Mr Kelly tapping her out as the winner in heifer born between Sep and Dec ’21. We caught up with Mr Kelly following the proceedings. “I enjoyed judging the groups today. There wasn’t a bottom end within the classes, and there was good consistency throughout with animals parading well.” Wednesday marked the beginning of the young handler classes, an opportunity for the future of the show ring to demonstrate what skilled and accomplished handlers we have coming up for the future. The interest in Interbreed Young Handler Beef competition was magnified this year, with the attendance of celebrity judge Sara Cox, alongside her dad and long-time member/supporter of the breed Len Cox. Drawing attention from media sources that would otherwise bypass the agricultural event, it was a fantastic opportunity to showcase to a wider audience the hard work and dedication involved in showing these tremendous creatures. No stranger to the ring herself, Sara Cox’s excitement
Harveybros 1 Willy-The-Womaniser from G&S Harvey to judge the class was evident, prompting a short clip post alongside fellow BBC broadcaster and native Welsh man, Gethin Jones. With her family having much to do with the Hereford society over the years, Sara, Dad Len and Brother Robert took the opportunity to visit old friends in the cattle sheds before taking up the position of judges in the cattle ring. Represented by three teams of two handlers, the Hereford was well-represented in a class consisting of various other native and continental breeds. Following much scrutiny from Sara, handlers Cara Doggett and Ollie Garnett-Smith were chosen as the winners, sighted by Sara as they had the “extra 5% and sparkle.” On the final day, seven Hereford members representing the UK Hereford Youth partook in the last of the young handler classes. The conditions were unfavourable, with some of the animals losing patience. Despite the elements, the skilled young handlers kept their composure, and their hard work paid off. At the end of these four exceptional days, we would like to congratulate all those who took part and made the event such a fantastic experience for all, as well as a big thanks to our sponsors Dunbia for their continued support.
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DENDOR Over 50 years of selective breeding
Herefords
Aled & Jen Jones– 07974416527 Twm Jones– 07896475340 dendorherefords@btinternet.com
Sires in use SOLPOLL 1 VANQUISH & DENDOR 1 VIVIAN
Solpoll 1 Vanquish
Dendor 1 Jano 23rd - Female Champion and top price female at the HCS Autumn Show and Sale. Jano 23rd also won her class at the National Poll Show where eight class winners had at least one Dendor bred parent.
Thank you to all purchasers & a massive congratulations to all the exhibitors of Dendor bred stock shown in 2023.
Visitors always welcome
@Dendorpollherefords
@Dendorherefords
www.dendor.co.uk
At a sun soaked Royal Three Counties Show, the senior female Hereford champion and reserve stuck together all the way to the supreme championship. Leading the way with Joe Clark on the steering end was Rempstone 1 Curly N604 from M Ludgate, Thame, Oxfordshire which also won the supreme championship at Agri Expo in November 2021 as a calf. January 2021-born, it is a daughter of Solpoll 1 Nobility and from the Curly line which goes back to the Badlingham herd.
Rempstone 1 Curly N604 from M Ludgate
Tapped out by judge George Harvey was Pebworth 1 Vesper from Nick and Lucy Holdsworth, Pebworth, Warwickshire, mirroring the outcome of its class, the senior female and grand female championships. Six weeks younger than the supreme champion, it is by stock bull Dendor 1 Smokin’ Joe, it is out of Blakesley 1 Glamour, a FS 1 Versache daughter. Grand male champion was Solpoll 1 Trailblazer from L and L Bowen, Nelson, Glamorgan which has already had a successful show season so far, including reserve interbreed champion at the Royal Bath and West and interbreed champion at Shropshire County Show. It also stood senior male champion and won the most senior bull class. Spartan 1 Voyager SP V138 from SC and GL Hartwright, Abingdon, Oxfordshire was successful as reserve grand male champion, and also stood next to Trailblazer in the senior male championship. March 2021-born, it is by Solpoll 1 Perfection and out of Panmure 1 Plum K19, which is by Hawkesbury 1 Volcano. The junior male championship victor came from Paul Dickin, Solihull in the form of January 2022-born Jacobean 1 Warrior. By SMH Euro 30E son Dendor 1 Kununurra, it is out of Jacobean 1 Willow 047 which goes back to many generations of Lowesmoor breeding. Standing as reserve junior male championship was Lanscombe 1 Doormouse from RA Mitchell, Dorchester. By Vexour 1 Phantom which was junior male champion at the 2018 autumn show and sale at Hereford market, it is out of Lanscombe 1 Sonnet. Bowendu 1 Ruby 2nd led the proceedings in the junior female championship. Bred and shown by L
Pebworth 1 Vesper from N and L Holdsworth and L Bowen, it is a daughter of Trailblazer and out of Dendor 1 Ruby 23rd which was third place female of the year in both 2019 and 2017. Reserve junior female was selected as Kingsland 1 Starlet 22 from Vaughan Farms, Kingsland, Herefordshire. Sired by 2018 Royal Welsh Show champion Gouldingpoll 1 Moonshine, its Starlet name originates from its Solpoll breeding. Elsewhere in the classes, RA Bradstock and partners, Tarrington, Herefordshire led the bull born September to November 2021 class with Free Town Wealth. September 2021-born, it is by stock bull Boycefield Stormzy and from generations of Free Town females. Kinglee 1 Will-I-Am, another from Nick and Lucy Holdsworth, took the red ticket in the March to April 2022 bull class. Bred by Pete Cobley, Leicestershire, this bull is out of Kinglee 1 Miss 520 which goes back to Costhorpe’s Miss family. Continuing their lap round the summer show circuit, FJ Wood and sons, Morleigh, Devon won the cow and calf class with Solpoll 1 Pansy T17. Purchased from John and William McMordie, Co Down, it was shown with its Fabb 1 Top Prize sired heifer calf at-foot. Born in April 2020, it is by Danish-bred
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Royal Three Counties Show
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Shows
Moeskaer Mentos. Purchased in-calf at the 2022 spring show and sale at 6,200gns, its dam is a full sister to Solpoll 1 Lawman while its grand dam is a full sister to Solpoll 1 Gilbert, the three times UK sire of the year, having also sired five females of the year. Another from the Hartwrights’ stable, this time Spartan 1 Oyster Gem SP166, moved to the fore in the September to December 2021 heifer class. Sired by the UK sire of the year Solpoll 1 Perfection, its
dam is from the Cleland Oyster Gem line. The junior heifer class was taken by Bosbury 1 Rosa W129 GT from Sarah Hawkins, Bosbury, Herefordshire. Born in May 2022, it is by Grifford 1 Try which was purchased at 5,500gns at the 2021 spring show and sale and has bred well for the herd. The pairs class was won by Mike and Caroline Shaw of Thornysure Hereford, Ilmington, Warwickshire.
Southwest team win National Stock judging Competition. A team from the South Western Hereford Breeders’ Association was announced as winning the National Stock judging Competition which saw society president David Smyth officiate as master judge as per tradition. Consisting of Lanscombe Herefords’ Chris and Emily Mitchell with Gerald Wood of Allwood Herefords, the team gained 396 points. In second place was Steve and Sarah Cowle and Cassidy Bowen representing Midlands and East Anglia Hereford Breeders’ Association, with 388 points. Powys Hereford Breeders’ Club saw success in coming third place with Neil and Nathaniel Johnson and Shannon Lawrence, gaining 387 points.
Winning team from the South West – L-R – Master judge David Smyth, Gerald Wood, Emily Mitchell, Chris Mitchell the same number of points at 378 was a UKHY team consisting of Cara Doggett, Will Awan and Tia Moyle.
Powys also took fourth place with Adam Bowen, Ethan Brook and Caleb Vater making up the team. Generating
In the individual competitions, in neck-and-neck at 135 points were Emily Mitchell of Lanscombe Herefords and Finlay Soutter of Normanton. Chris Mitchell, also of Lanscombe Herefords won the overall highest placing individual cup with 143 points.
Young competitors gaining the most points – L-R – Master judge David Smyth, Emily Mitchell, Finlay Soutter
Highest placing indivudal- L-R – Master judge David Smyth, Chris Mitchell
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Royal Cornwall locals and longtime supporters, the Hawke family, secured the supreme and male champion positions with Hustyn Cider at the Royal Cornwall Show. September 2020-born, it is a son of Border Souvenir S40 which took the supreme title at last year’s show. Out of Hustyn Curly 5th bred from the Border herd’s Curly line which originated from the Wenlock herd, its dam’s sire Hustyn Onslow stood male champion at the Royal Cornwall in 2018. Solpoll 1 Pansy T17 from FJ Wood and sons, Moreleigh, Devon occupied the reserve supreme and female championship positions and follows on from its supreme championship at Devon County. With Jonathan Moorhouse sorting the line-ups, the April 2020-born female also moved to the fore in its senior female class. By Danish-bred Moeskaer Mentos, the young female was purchased in-calf at the 2022 spring show and sale at 6,200gns. Its dam is a full sister to Solpoll 1 Lawman while its grand dam is a full sister to Solpoll 1 Gilbert, the three times UK sire of the year, having also sired five females of the year. Nicholashayne 1 Frankie from K and A Prettejohn, Nicholashayne, Somerset stood next to Hawkes’ bull as reserve male champion and also won the junior bull class. January 2022-born, it is a son of Nicholashayne 1 Kingkong which was reserve interbreed junior bull at the 2015 Royal Welsh Show among other successes. Lanscombe 1 Cilla from RA Mitchell, Dorchester, Dorset was tapped out as reserve female champion after taking the red ticket in its intermediate female class. Having already won the female champion title at Devon County. By Lanscombe 1 Wizard, it is out of Lanscombe 1 Winkie, a daughter of Brangwyn 1 Emperor, bred by the Roderick family, Gower, Swansea. The Mitchell family
Hustyn Cider from the Hawke family
Solpoll 1 Pansy T17 from FJ Wood and sons also won the group of three. The junior heifer class was led by March 2022-born Kingsland 1 Starlet 22 from Vaughan Farms having travelled down from Herefordshire. A daughter of Gouldingpoll 1 Moonshine which won the 2018 Royal Welsh Show, its maternal line quickly goes back to Solpoll. Hustyn Greyart, another from the Hawke family, took the red ticket in the August to December 2021-born bull class. By Border Souvenir S40 bred by Stan Quan, it is out of Hustyn Gaylass, a Phocle Generator daughter.
Shows
Royal Cornwall Show
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Shows
Great Yorkshire Show Coley 1 Vincent from Liam Jackson-Carr was tapped out by Ireland’s Coley 1 Vincent Matthew Goulding as supreme and male champion at the Great Yorkshire Show having also won the senior bull class. Spartan 1 Oyster Gem SP166 from SC and GL Hartwright, Abingdon, Oxfordshire was reserve supreme, junior and female champion and also took the red ticket in the 2021 heifer class. Already a wellknown animal this year, it won its class at the Royal Three Counties. This October 2021-born female also stood among the interbreed group success at the Royal Norfolk. Sired by the UK sire of the year Solpoll 1 Perfection, its dam is from the Cleland 1 Oyster Gem line. In the Blythewood native pairs, Oyster Gem coupled up with Kinglsand 1 Wolf to take the championship. The junior team also went on to take the reserve title, while the senior group of four stood fourth. All in all, the breed enjoyed a fruitful week at Harrogate. Reserve female champion was selected as Bowendu 1 Ruby 2nd from L and L Bowen, Nelson, Glamorgan having also won its class. January 2022-born, it is a daughter of Solpoll 1 Trailblazer and out of Dendor 1 Ruby 23rd which was third place female of the year in both 2019 and 2017. A previous Christmas calf show junior champion, it also took reserve supreme champion at the 2019 Royal Cornwall Show, supreme at the Royal Bath and West, Devon County and Pembroke Show. March 2022-born Kingsland 1 Wolf from S and H O’Kane, Adfa, Powys was selected as reserve male champion as well as reserve junior champion. A son of the 2018 Royal Welsh champion Gouldingpoll 1 Moonshine, it is out of Kingsland 1 Lily 1st which is from the Lily line at Dendor. It was April 2022-born Auckvale 1 Wodonga 2204W from W and R Kemp and sons, Bishop Auckland, Co Durham which led the junior bull class. By stock bull Dendor 1 Muttley, it is out of Auckvale Lively 1389L which traces back to the Westwood Lively line, bred by RT Davies and co.
Spartan 1 Oyster Gem SP166 from SC and GL Hartwright On to the females and Moralee 1 Kylie KS S3 from T and D Harrison, Mickley, Northumberland led the cow class. The 2019 Christmas calf show champion, this October 2018-born female is by previous sire of the year SMH King Size 87K and out of the Harrisons’ original Kylie. From the same stable, Moralee Curly CI288 moved to the fore in the junior heifer class. By Parkhill Pompeii, a son of the Australian sire Yarram Pompeii V055, it was purchased as a heifer from W and R Kemp and sons in the 2020 Designer Genes sale where it sold for a European horned female record of 10,000gns. The prolific Curly line at Auckvale goes back to Border’s Curlys, which originated from the historic Wenlock herd. The pairs was won by J Hodge, Berwick-upon-Tweed while the group of three class saw success for SC and GL Hartwright.
YEA RS
O F
BR EE D I NG
C HAM PI O N S
W LIVESEY: 07791917382 | WLIVESEY@LIVESEYBROS.CO.UK | C SOUTTER: 07958153651
MANOR FARM, THE HOLLOW, NORMANTON LE HEATH, LEICESTERSHIRE, LE67 2TJ
BULLS & FEMALES FOR SALE - VISITORS ALWAYS WELCOME
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Shows
NORMANTON HEREFORDS
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Stars of the Future Held at United Auctions Stirling, Stars of the Future does what it says in the name. For those who get called to the front as the judges’ top pick within calf classes, it marks the start of a glittering career in the summer months with their potential recognised at a young age.
Harveybros 1 Crocus Aurora from G & S Harvey
One such heifer, from the Harvey family, spotted by judge Maddie Clarke, within the junior female class, was Harveybros 1 Crocus Aurora. Daughter of Sky High 1 Take-a-Chance, out of Harveybros 1 Crocus Tiara. Following on from winning her class, she moved up the board taking the sash for junior female champion and overall female champion. Having gotten her first taste of success at AgriExpo, standing reserve in the junior championship, the 2023-born heifer represented the breed in the native championship at Stars of the Future, to be tapped out as reserve champion. Another success from the Harveybros herd, saw Harveybros 1 Crocus Absolut-Rose tapped out as senior overall champion following her triumph in senior female championship and senior class, born on or between 6th November and 13th January 2022. Absolut-Rose first entered the ring back in the summer at the Scottish National Show in Perth and earned her first red rosette. November born, Absolut-Rose is sired by Gouldingpoll1 1 Stockman, out of Harveybros 1 Crocus Tequilla-Rose, the Crocus line heading back to the Panmure 1 Crocus line. Reserve overall senior champion was selected as Saltire 1 Ruth 3rd from WP & K Wason, Lochgelly, Fife having stood second in her class and then reserve female champion beside Absolut-Rose. November 2022-born, she is a daughter of Dorepoll 1 499 Einsteine, sired himself from Canadian breeding, out of homebred Saltire 1 Ruth 2nd.
Harveybros 1 Crocus Absolut-Rose from G & S Harvey Romany 1 Thor FR T4 and out of Panmure 1 Plum H12. Seeing success in the junior section Panmure 1 Alexander took the junior male champion position. Another Romany 1 Thor FR T4 son, out of Panmure 1 Blessing S4. Alexander took the red ticket in the junior male class ahead of Harveybros 1 A-Ladies-Man. Harveybros 1 A-Ladies-Man, caught Miss Clarkes eye in the junior championship and strode into reserve junior male champion position. Born May 2023, another winning animal from the crocus line, this time out of Harveybros 1 Crocus N1, sired by Gouldingpoll 1 Stockman.
December 2022-born, Panmure 1 Apollo from JM Cant & Partners, was selected as senior male champion after first taking the top spot in the senior male class. A Romany 1 Thor FR T4 son, out of Panmure 1 Plum S8. Romany 1 Thor FR T4 is proving to have a strong influence over the Panmure herd, seeing his progeny rack up the ribbons at major shows throughout the summer and this year’s Stars of the Future show. In the junior section, Panmure 1 Plum A9 upheld the winning streak for the Panmure team by pocketing the reserve junior title before moving on to claim the reserve junior overall champion ticket. Travelling from Tayside, January 2023-born Plum A9, sired again by
Panmure 1 Alexander from JM Cant & Partners
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Midford 1 Ravette 1st from Will Awan strode into the top spot at this year’s Annual Christmas Calf show held by the Hereford Cattle Breeders Association at Shrewsbury Livestock Centre. This is the first championship win for the heifer but follows a string of high profiled wins over the last few months, one of which was taking overall reserve at AgriExpo.
Midford 1 Ravette 1st from W Awan
Born-January ’23, Ravette is the first calf from stockbull, Kinglee 1 The New One, and is a natural calf from foundation cow Gouldingpoll 1 Ravette 738 a cow purchased in from Ireland in 2021. The supreme championship win came behind Ravette taking the junior championship title and the win within her class. Overseeing the line-up was judge William McMordie, Northern Ireland, of the Solpoll herd. When reviewing the final selection for the supreme champion, William selected Ravette above the rest as he reflected on words of wisdom passed to him by his father. ‘It came down to which one I would be most devastated not to win with if I was showing. When I thought that way it was an easier selection, as the top two were so close. But the winner was a heifer I’d want in my herd.’ Stood in reserve was Dendor 1 Greta 37th from DE, ED & AL Jones following her victory taking top position in the senior female championship and her class. A daughter of Pepperstock 1 Trigger, out of Dendor 1 Greta 24th. From Phillip and Laura Vincent Pulham 1 Olive 7th claimed the reserve title in the senior female championship. Born Sep-22, Olive was second in her class behind the overall reserve champion. Out of Pulham 1 Olive 1st, Olive is sired by Appel 1 Kaboom. Occupying the reserve junior heifer position was Moralee 1 Kylie PR294 from Tom and Di Harrison. January 2023-born she is by Moralee 1 RHS Prince KR R8 who’s progeny has seen a string of success. Out of Moralee 1 Kylie, Kylie PR294 was second in her class behind the supreme champion. In the male section, Rempstone 1 Avalanche N674 took the junior male champion title. From M Ludgate, Thame, Oxfordshire, Jan 2023-born Avalanche
Dendor 1 Greta 37th from DE, ED & AL Jones N674 is out of Rempstone 1 Dowager V424, sired by Dendor 1 Nairobi, who himself was named junior male champion at both the National Poll show and Kington in 2016 at six months old. Young breeder, Liam Jackson-Carr, bull calf JC 1 Austin took reserve junior male champion. Hailing from Sheffield, son of Coley 1 Vincent, the current joint bull of the year, out of Coley 1 Dowager 545. From TD & WT Livesey, Normanton 1 Anthony A617 claimed the senior male champion title. From Leicester, Anthony A617 is out of Normanton 1 Fistulina 18th R360, sired by Normanton 1 Twm T611. Alongside the Normanton bull, Pulham 1 Achilles took reserve senior male champion marking another success for the Pulham herd. Out of Pulham 1 Curly 3rd, Achilles is a son of Appel 1 Kaboom. In November to December 2022 bull class, Spartan 1 Arabian King SP 204 was tapped out victorious. Arabian King also won his class earlier this year at AgriExpo. From SC & GL Hartwright, exhibited by stockman, Luke Murphy, the bull is son of Solpoll 1 Perfection, the current sire of the year, out of Spartan 1 Peppa.
Shows
HCBA Christmas Calf Show
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In bull calf born March 2023 class, with NonThorne at the helm, Ashdale 3 Henderson from TG, EI & EN Thorne took the red rosette. Out of Ashdale 3 Queen 509, sired by Alderville 1 Dover. Another win for the Thorne family, this time within the female classes, Studdolph 1 Barbie 884 partied into first position. November 2022born out of Studdolph 1 Barbie 719 and sired by Vexour 1 Palmer. From the home of last year’s Christmas calf show champion Holmefold 1 Rocco, young breeder Maddy Scott re-entered the ring this year with heifer Holmefold 1 Lady Luck. Proving that luck is in more than the name, Maddy led her Feb born heifer into pole position. Lady Luck is the full brother to Holmefold 1 Rocco, sired by Hoghton View 1 Kid Rock, out of Hoghton View 1 Chico 1st. Another win for the Dendor herd, with Dendor 1 Wattle 15th from DE, ED & AL Jones. March 23-born, out of homebred Dendor 1 Wattle 9th and sired by Dendor 1 Vernon.
with a large uptake of entries. Boomer Birch selected his winner within the ring whilst Millie Birch kept a close eye on the competitors as the undercover guest judge. Winners were as follows.
Winning the ‘best pair of bull calves’ was M Ludgate from the Rempstone herd.
Senior Class – Emma Dexter
Leading the way in the ‘best pairs of heifers calves’ class was TG, EI & EN Thorne, Glendale/Studdolph Herefords.
Junior Class – Ashlee Hughes
The young handler section was greatly supported
Future Star: Ashlee Hughes
Intermediate Class – Finlay Soutter Champion: Finlay Souter Reserve: Emma Dexter
PORTON HOUSE
Lilac Wine – Breed Champion Royal Welsh 2022
Jane 4th – Breed Champion National Poll Show 2023
Paul & Vicky Moyle
07879 775552
WWW.PORTONHOUSEHEREFORDS.COM
Paul and Vicky Moyle are incredibly proud of the Porton House herd and their hard work is paying off, with their heifer Porton House 1 Jane 4th returning from the National Poll Show 2023 decked in rosettes and ribbons. Paul has been speaking to Tyndale Vets about how the utilisation of their embryo and IVF technologies has helped the Porton House herd to realise its potential.
Tell me a bit about Jane’s breeding. “The dam to Jane is from our highly successful Amethyst/Jane line, Porton House 1 Jane (dam) is the daughter of Ashley Moor 1 Amethyst 33rd (grand dam), one of our foundation cows. The line is proving to be in high demand, consistently giving great eye catching conformation, power & milk yield. We always choose to flush our females which are from lines that consistently breed well when calved ‘naturally’ (not through IVF), with fertility, milk and calving ease still being vital when flushing as we want daughters to perform for us and their buyers. We never flush animals which struggle to breed, milk or calve.” Jane followed the same path that the majority of cows and heifers take when they visit the IVF collection centre at Tyndale Vets. After a stimulation programme carried out by Paul and Vicky on farm at Porton House, she made the trip over the Severn Bridge to the collection centre near Dursley, Gloucestershire. While Paul and
Vicky waited with a coffee, Jane went into Tyndale’s collection room, where vet Peter May, one of the most respected names in the cattle embryo world, used an ultrasound guided probe to extract the eggs or “oocytes” directly from Jane’s ovaries. The process generally takes around 20-35 minutes and the average collection yields 19 oocytes. Collection over, Jane headed home to Porton House. The precious oocytes are rapidly transferred into incubators in the IVF lab at Tyndale and await fertilisation the following day. Paul and Vicky have a very clear plan in mind for the kind of animals they want in their herd and as such the choice of which semen would be added to Jane’s eggs was a carefully thought out one.
How did you choose which sire to use on Jane’s eggs? “We were looking to give balance, length, size, maintaining colour & femininity to the line, Kohinoor we felt would add these characteristics whilst still being ‘easy calving’. Kohinoor is proving himself as an exceptional breeder of females, breeding clean, long, feminine females. With the strength
of Dendors’ breeding behind him his daughters are also expected to milk well and calve easily too, keeping those traits that make the Hereford so great!” Following the addition of Kohinoor semen to Jane’s oocytes, they were placed into the incubator to develop into embryos. Only top quality embryos at the “blastocyst” stage are transferred fresh or frozen. The average number of embryos produced per collection is six, however Jane and the other Porton House girls have consistently impressed with their performance. Jane has produced 14 embryos from two collections, and over the herd’s 13 total IVF collections with Tyndale they have averaged 8 embryos per collection.
Any other comments about her? Well, we are still pinching ourselves over her success at the National Poll Show. She will be collected from next year as well as putting her into calf to our stock bull Normanton 1 Whiskey. To us she is the epitome of what we like in the breed, feminine, size, power & balance. We would like to thank Tyndale Vets for their support in breeding her!
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Advertorial
From embryo to top of show
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Shows
English Winter Fair Held at Staffordshire County showground the English Winter Fair boasts some of the finest pedigree and fatstock in the country. The show draws in interest from all corners of the UK and has become the mecca for Young Farmers stock judging classes. National Pedigree Calf Show Running over two days, Saturday saw the ring filled with young stock for the National pedigree calf show in conjunction with the Midlands and East Anglia Hereford breeders club calf show. These prizes are highly sought after, as they represent the future success of a herd. Claiming overall supreme champion was a heifer who has been catching the eye of many judges, Grifford 1 True Fashion. Winning this time within her home county, this well-travelled heifer, bred by N Griffiths, out of Greenyards 1 Truelove M314, sired by Gouldingpoll 1 Stockman, continues her winning streak following her prized position wins at Agri Expo earlier the same month with Senior Female Champion and Reserve Overall Female Champion. A daughter of Kinglee 1 Polly 285, a cow the Kinglee herd describes as one of ‘the best breeders and most productive cows on farm’, who has had over 10 calves within her lifetime and an impressive self-replacing index, Kinglee 1 Polly 711 stood reserve overall champion. Sired by Cleland 1 Nelson, Polly 711 stood second in her class beside overall champion, True Fashion and moved up through the ranks together, positioning herself in reserve within the female championship. Further success for the Kinglee herd came for bull Kinglee 1 Ambassador, half-brother of reserve champion, Kinglee 1 Polly 711 through the paternal line, this time out of Kinglee 1 Miss 528. December-born Ambassador bred by PK & IF Cobley, strode into the reserve position, in the bull calf championship. Sitting ahead of Kinglee 1 Ambassador, sired by Hereford sire of the year, Solpoll 1 Perfection, out of Spartan 1 Peppa, Spartan 1 Arabian King took top spot in the male championship following his win within the senior bull calf class. Half-brother to infamous Spartan 1 Typhoon, this November ’22 born bull from breeders SC & GL Hartwright has consistently earned the herd red tickets throughout the year, placing first in his class at AgriExpo and ‘reserve native interbreed calf’ as well as ‘reserve native super bull’.
Normanton 1 Woodonga A first high-profile win for Buckenhill 1 Atlas US, from breeders L Crowther & M Gray, Bromyard, Herefordshire. Atlas UK is a son of Upper House 1 Soyus, out of Buckenhill 1 Sunstone, took the red ticket in the January to March 2023 bull class. As judging moved into the final male class, the April to June 2023-born bull calf class was led by Santa Maria 1 Alcatraz, owned by Keadyview Livestock’s Steve and Helen O’Kane, Welshpool, Powys, bred by Tony Vasami, Llandysul, Ceredigion. Dam, Dendor 1 Greta 29th was sold with Alcatraz at foot, sired by Gouldingpoll 1 Stockman entered the auction ring at Shrewsbury, part of the Santa Maria herd dispersal back in June 2023, finding a new home with Keadyview for 3,000gns. Heading into the heifer classes, young breeder Will Awan’s January 2023-born, Midford 1 Ravette 1st took first place. Ravette 1st has been gaining momentum on the show circuit in recent times. A daughter of stock bull, Kinglee 1 The New One, a natural calf
Normanton 1 Ant
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Shows Normanton Steers accompanied by Pow in group of three from foundation cow Gouldingpoll 1 Ravette 738, a foundation cow purchased in from Ireland. Normanton 1 Fistulina 53rd, from TD & WT Livesey, Leicester, paraded by Isla Soutter, finished first in the junior heifer class. A daughter of stock bull, Pepperstock 1 Thor who was shown successfully in his own right, winning breed champion at both Suffolk and Lincolnshire show, bred by Speirs Farm, Fistulina 53rd is out of homebred Normanton 1 Fistulina 19th.
Commercial victory for Herefords With the calf classes concluded, Sunday began with the Beef Championship. With the pure-bred Hereford classes, Livesey’s line up dominated. Steer Normanton 1 Woodonga, sired by Normanton 1 Laertes, out of Normanton 1 Fistulina 9th, was later awarded the coveted title for the overall champion native breed in the pedigree beef section.
First to enter the ring to go under the hammer was the Livesey consignment, beginning with the Overall native champion, the bidding commenced, with Woodonga meeting fierce competition with bidders, the figure climbed with the gavel falling on 3.68ppk seeing the breeders leave with £2,557.60 for their champion bull. The reserve champion bull, Ant, saw an equally high level of interest, leaving the ring at 3.70ppk making him £2,289.00. With his last trip around the ring, Taymar Panda continued the trend of soaring interest in Hereford sired stock, with bidding topping out at 3.65ppk, £2,555.00 and steer, Blueray, 3.55ppk, £2,289.00. All animals offered for sale were well fleshed, excellently turned-out individuals and the trade matched the quality on the day.
Not to be overshadowed by his stable mate, Normanton 1 Ant, paternal half-brother to Woodonga, out of Normanton 1 Fistulina 28th, stood in reserve for both the pure-bred Hereford class as well as the John Powner Perpetual Challenge Trophy, for reserve champion in the native breed pedigree beef championship. A steer with an unique look, Hereford sired, Taymar Panda, from Taylor & Marsh, Lancashire, led the way in the commercial Hereford sired championship. Out of a Belgium blue mother, Panda has been actively showcasing the benefits of a Hereford sire in the ring over the summer, taking 1st in the native bred bullock at Westmorland, Agri Expo and Thirsk. Another Hereford sired bullock, out of a Belgium blue, Taymar Blueray who stood beside Panda as reserve Hereford Cross animal sired by a Hereford bull. The Livesey animals were joined by Pow, exhibited by Scott Coates to make a power team, up against stiff competition in a large and well represented class, they earned a highly commendable reserve within the interbreed championship. Following the completion of the beef championship, the highly anticipated sale of the prime beef stock was held in the main ring. With barely any room to stand and each side of the ring thick with spectators and many butchers awaiting the event as to claim the prize animal for their stores to display proudly over the festive period.
From the butchers, Taymar Hereford Sired
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Welsh Winter Fair A fantastic few days were enjoyed at the Welsh Winter Fair. The society stand saw a massive footfall of interest parties from farmers to the public with the help of Solpoll 1 Trailblazer. Kindly supplied by L & L Bowen, the bull showcased the positive attributes of the breed, especially in the way of docility. With his credentials on display, hung on the pen, many farmers stopped to positively comment about what they could see on paper and in the flesh. Away from the stand, the main ring saw a small but perfectly formed consignment of cattle entered, exhibited by predominantly Welsh breeders. The Hereford classes commenced with the pedigree Hereford heifer class. A smart heifer owned and exhibited by Luke Powell, Mid Glamorgan, bred by SC and GL Hartwright strode into the top position. Out of Ruckmans 1 Polly 1306, Spartan 1 Polly SP A201 is a daughter of Solpoll 1 Perfection, a bull who stands as the current sire of the year and was tapped out at the society Spring Show & Sale back in 2019 as overall champion with the hammer later falling on 8,000gns. Next on display were the Hereford steers, with stock travelling up from below Builth. With Scott Coates at the helm, ‘Pow’ took first place for the husband-and-wife team. Jan 22-born, sired by Moeskaer Upgrade, out of dam Parkapella 1 Potency 1199, his achievement didn’t end within the class. Heading through to the breed championship, ‘Pow’ stood as overall champion. Closing the event with the sale, ‘Pow’ was presented a crowd of spectators, with the gavel falling on £1,972.80 at 2.88ppk. Breeders L & L Bowen’s animal, Bowendu 1 William, who came second within his class was named as reserve breed champion. A son of Gouldingpoll 1 Stockman, out of Herberry 1 Lucy Sky, he was entered into the sale ring later that day earning the breeders from Nelson, Glamorgan, £1,976.80 at 2.80ppk. Next within the sales ring, with their animal placing third in the steer class, breeders A D & E E Richards from
Llandwrda, Carmarthenshire, took home £1991.04 for their June 22-born Celynen 1 Charlie Brown. Out of home bred Celynen 1 Model, sired by Laxfield Vancouver. Celynen 1 Bill, a lighter animal within the group, met strong demand, taking home a kilo price equivalent to that seen at the English Winter Fair earlier that month. Sired by Windy Creek 1 Notary, out of Ashley Moor 1 Eve 4th, the steer finished the day on £1773.64 at 3.55ppk. Many butchers around the ring commented on the quality of stock put forward and it was reflected in the price on the day. Within the baby beef classes, ‘Toot Toot’, a sweet commercial Hereford sired cross-bred heifer, came steaming into win ‘Baby Show Native Heifer, 425kg and under liveweight’. Bred by Steve and Helen O’Kane of Keadyview Livestock, the winner of the class went forward to win a special award sponsored by retailer, M&S. Continuing the trend of Hereford sired stock, Caleb Vater took home-bred Ginger for a spin in the ring as part of the Young Farmers Club baby beef class, where not only did he have to exhibit his animal but showcase cost of production at the stall. His efforts were rewarded as he was placed second. The society stand won the reserve prize from the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society for the quality of the breed stand and information it provided.
Farm Assured
B. & H. & M.R. Myers
Breedplan Recording
BSE & TB Free Herd Member BioBest High-Health Herdcare Scheme Winners of the South of England Herd Competition and both the Best Junior and Senior Bulls
Sires in use
Boundless 1 Magnus • Vexour 1 Percy Boundless Farm • Boundless Road • Brook • Nr. Godalming • Surrey GU8 5LF • Tel/Fax: (01428) 683077
email: boundlessherefords@btopenworld.com VISITORS ALWAYS WELCOME •
STOCK ALWAYS FOR SALE
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BOUNDLESS POLL HEREFORDS
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Society Matters
Shows and events 2024 FEBRUARY 4-5
Stirling bull sale
Stirling, Stirlingshire
01786 473055
13
Native breed sale
Dungannon, Co. Tyrone
02887 722727
Spring show and sale
Shrewsbury, Shropshire
01432 272057
Native breed sale
Dungannon, Co. Tyrone
02887 722727
15-18
Balmoral Show
Lisburn, Belfast
02890 665225
11
Ayr County
Ayr, Ayrshire
08452 011460
11
Notts County Show
Newark, Nottinghamshire
01636 705796
16-18
Devon County
Exeter, Devon
01392 353700
17
Native breed sale
Carlisle, Cumbria
01228 406230
25
Shropshire County
Shrewsbury, Shropshire
01743 289831
25
Heathfied and District
Heathfield, East Sussex
01435 864587
25-26
Hertfordshire County
St Albans, Hertfordshire
01582 792626
25
Northumberland County
Hexham, Northumberland
01434 604216
29-30
Stafford County
Stafford, Staffordshire
01785 258060
29-30
Suffolk County
Ipswich, Suffolk
01473 707110
30-1 June
Royal Bath and West
Shepton Mallet, Somerset
01749822200
31-1 June
Ballymoney (North Antrim)
Ballymoney, Co Antrim
07713519928
2
Rutland County
Oakham, Rutland
01572 757110
6-8
Royal Cornwall
Wadebridge, Cornwall
01208 812183
7-9
South of England
Ardingly, West Sussex
01444 892700
8
Cumberland County
Warwick-on-Eden, Cumbria
01228 812601
14-16
Royal Three Counties
Malvern, Worcestershire
01684584900
15
Armagh Show
Armagh, Co Armagh
02837 522333
15
Ballymena
Ballymena, Co Antrim
07718478413
18-19
Royal Cheshire County
Knutsford, Cheshire
01565 650200
19-20
Lincolnshire County
Lincoln, Lincolnshire
01522 522900
20-23
Royal Highland
Edinburgh
01313 356200
23
Derbyshire County
Elvaston, Derbyshire
01332 793068
26-27
Royal Norfolk
Norwich, Norfolk
01603 748931
6
Hanbury Countryside
Redditch, Worcestershire
07841 499660
9-12
Great Yorkshire Show
Harrogate, Yorkshire
01423 541000
13
Castlewellan
Castlewellan, Co Down
02840 638087
13
Newport
Newport, Shropshire
01952 810814
14
Ashby
Heather Coalvillle, Derbyshire
01283 229225
20
Scottish National Show
Biggar, South Lanarkshire
22-25
Royal Welsh
Builth Wells, Powys
01982 553683
26-27
Border Union
Kelso, Scottish Borders
01573 224188
27
Antrim
Antrim, Co. Antrim
07899 746542
APRIL 13 MAY
JUNE
JULY
231 New Forest and Hants. County
Brockenhurst, Hampshire
01590 622400
NI National
Clogher Valley Show Co. Tyrone
1
Burwarton
Burwarton, Shropshire
01746 787535
3
Honiton
Honiton, Devon
01404 41794
2
Fishguard
Fishguard, Pembrokeshire
07729 359296
3
Dumfries and Lockerbie
Annan, Dumfries and Galloway
01461 201199
3
Brecon County
Brecon, Powys
01874 611881
3
Garstang
Garstang, Lancashire
07867 313346
3
National Hereford Show
Tenbury Wells, Worcestershire
01584 810818
7
North Devon
Barnstaple, Devon
01769 573852
8
Okehampton and District
Okehampton, Devon
01837 659965
13-14
Anglesey County
Gwalchmai, Anglesey
01407 720072
14-15
Gillingham and Shaftesbury
Shaftesbury, Dorset
01747 823955
14-15
Pembrokeshire County
Haverford West, Pembrokeshire
01437 764331
15
Denbigh and Flint
Denbigh, Denbighshire
01352 712131
17
Ashbourne
Ashbourne, Staffordshire
01889 507497
17
Bedwellty
Trelewis, Glamorgan
01443 839234
22
Melplash
Melplash, Dorset
01308 423337
25-26
Edenbridge and Oxted
Lingfield, Surrey
01737 645843
29
Bucks County
Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire
01296 680400
7
Alresford
Winchester, Hampshire
01962 738748
7
National Poll Show
Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire
01608 651908
7
Dorset County
Dorchester, Dorset
01305 264249
14
Kington
Kington, Herefordshire
01544 340598
14
Romsey
Romsey, Hampshire
01794 517521
14
Usk
Usk, Monmouthshire
01291 690889
2
Autumn show and sale
Carlisle, Cumbria
01228 406230
12
Autumn show and sale
Shrewsbury, Shropshire
01432 272057
Stirling bull sales
Stirling, Stirlingshire
01786 473055
1
Agri Expo
Carlisle, Cumbria
01228 460230
16-17
English Winter Fair
Stafford, Staffordshire
01785 258060
25-26
Royal Welsh Agricultural Winter Fair
Builth Wells, Powys
01982 553683
26
Royal Ulster Beef and Lamb Championships
Lisburn, Belfast
02890 665225
Native breed sale
Dungannon, Co. Tyrone
02887 722727
7
HCBA Christmas Calf Show
Shrewsbury, Shropshire
07944519860
12
Royal Ulster Winter Fair
Lisburn, Belfast
02890 665225
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
Society Matters
30-1 August
232
Advertisers Index
AB Europe Andrews, Trevor Barlow, AE (Thornby Farms) Bovela Bowen, L & L Bradstock, R & T Cameron, John & Margaret Cant & Partners, J.M Cobley, PK & IF Cogent Breeding Deaville, D. J Dickinson, David & Kate Douglas, John Dovecote Park Eat, Sleep, Live Herefordshire Eccles, Pete Fletcher, Carolyn Gifford Farming, Alex Gifford, Alan & Linda Halls Hawke, Fred, Roland & Jackie Hawkins, S Herdwatch Holdsworth, Nicky & Lucy Hutchings, Reg Jackson-Carr, Liam Jenkins, Martin Jones, DE, ED and AL Kelly, D and M Kemp & Sons, W & R Lewis, E.L & Sons Livesey, W Ludgate, M J Lury, Marcus & David McMordie, John & William Miller, Jason & Priscilla Mills, Edward Mitchell, RA Moorhouse, J Morton, G & T Moyle, P & V Murdock, M & Family Myers, B, H & M.R Paragon Vets Purchese, S Scott, Maddie Smith, D C & Son Speirs,Jim SRUC Thorne, TG, EI and EN Thornton Breakers Twose, Joseph Tyndale Advanced Breeding Vincent, P.J & L.R Walker, Steve & Lizzie Watkins, G and R Weatherbys Scientfic Whitlow, J.R Whittal Seeds Wilkinson, Iain
Artificial breeding services 10 Mountview Herefords 153 Thornby Herefords 193 BVD vaccine Inside back cover Bowendu Herefords 155 Free Town Herefords 201 Baldinnie Herefords 163 Panmure Herefords 161 Kinglee Herefords 95 AI services Back Cover Alderville Herefords 177 Mallowburn Herefords 17 Ervie Herefords 143 Beef Processors 59 Tourist Information 61 Rockness Herefords 17 Barwise Herefords 147 Twilight Herefords 190 Starline Herefords 106 Auctioneers 178 Breock, Hystyn & Nanscient Herefords 24 Bosbury Herefords 135 Farm Management System Inside front cover Pebworth Herefords 61 Fisher Herefords 106 JC Herefords 199 Appleridge Herefords 100 Dendor Herefords 216 Netherhall Herefords 101 Auckvale Herefords 179 Haven Herefords 144 Normanton Herefords 221 Rempstone Herefords 114 Oakleaf & Castlewood Herefords 121 Solpoll Herefords 129 Weybrook Herefords 113 Severnvale Herefords 111 Lanscombe Herefords 167 Cato Herefords 145 Nancy Herefords 200 Porton House Herefords 224 Lisnaree Herefords 185 Boundless Herefords 229 Veterinarians 52/53 Lynsore Herefords 113 Holmefold Herefords 17 Laxfield Herefords 157 Pepperstock Herefords 101 Health Scheme 173 Studdolph Herefords 83 Vehicle breakers 51 Beca Poll Herefords 67 Artificial breeding services 208/225 Pulham Herefords 210/211 Hoghton View Herefords 69 Holly Bush Herefords 53 Laboratory services 182 HighHouse Herefords 190 Grass seed specialists and retailer 8 Redstroke Herefords 163
AFTER THE ONE-TWO PUNCH OF PI REMOVAL AND BIOSECURITY, YOU’LL WANT TO KEEP YOUR GUARD UP AGAINST BVD. A DISEASE WITH AN IMPACT OF OVER £40 PER COW PER YEAR1. SPEAK TO YOUR VET ABOUT HOW THE UK’S MARKET 2 PROTECTIONYOU’LL AGAINST BOTH 2, WITH JUST ONE JAB3. LEADING AFTERBVD THEVACCINE ONE-TWOPROVIDES PUNCH OF12PI MONTHS’ REMOVALPROVEN AND BIOSECURITY, WANT TO BVD KEEPTYPE YOUR1 AND GUARD UP AGAINST BVD. used as part of a comprehensive approach to BVD including culling of PIs and biosecurity. TO YOUR VET ABOUT HOW THE UK’S MARKET A DISEASE WITHANWhen IMPACT OF OVER £40 PER COW PER YEAR1. SPEAK 2 References: 1. Yarnall and Thrusfield (2017) Vet Record doi: 10.1136/vr.104370 2. Kynetec (2019) BVD sales data by value. Full year 2018 3. For LEADING BVD VACCINE PROVIDES 12 MONTHS’ PROVEN PROTECTION AGAINST BOTH BVD TYPE 1 AND 2, WITH JUST ONE JAB3. active immunisation of cattle against BVDV-1 and BVDV-2, to prevent the birth of persistently infected calves caused by transplacental infection. When asforpart of a comprehensive approach to BVDliveincluding culling of PIs andstrain biosecurity. Bovela lyophilisate andused solvent suspension for injection for cattle contains modified BVDV-1, non-cytopathic parent KE-9: 104.0– 106.0 TCID50, modified live BVDV-2, non-cytopathic parent strain NY-93: 104.0–106.0 TCID50. UK: POM-V. Further information available in the SPC or References: 1. Yarnall and Thrusfield (2017)UKVetLtd, Record 10.1136/vr.104370 2. Kynetec BVD sales data by value. Full year 2018 3. For from Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health RG12doi: 8YS, UK. Tel: 01344 746957. Email:(2019) vetenquiries@boehringer-ingelheim.com. Bovela is immunisation of cattle against BVDV-1 andVetmedica BVDV-2, toGmbH, prevent the under birth oflicence. persistently infected calvesIngelheim caused byAnimal transplacental infection. aactive registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim used ©2019 Boehringer Health UK Ltd. All 4.0 rights Date of solvent preparation: Jul 2019. AHD12633. Responsibly. Bovelareserved. lyophilisate and for suspension for injectionUse for Medicines cattle contains modified live BVDV-1, non-cytopathic parent strain KE-9: 10 – 106.0 TCID50, modified live BVDV-2, non-cytopathic parent strain NY-93: 104.0–106.0 TCID50. UK: POM-V. Further information available in the SPC or from Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health UK Ltd, RG12 8YS, UK. Tel: 01344 746957. Email: vetenquiries@boehringer-ingelheim.com. Bovela is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH, used under licence. ©2019 Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health UK Ltd. All rights reserved. Date of preparation: Jul 2019. AHD12633. Use Medicines Responsibly.
MakE BVD history MakE BVD history