Sheep FarmerDECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 A NATIONAL SHEEP ASSOCIATION PUBLICATION

HEALTH AND NUTRITION ADVICE FOR LAMBING

UPDATE ON SUPERMARKET LAMB SCHEMES

THE FIGHT AGAIN RURAL CRIME

WINTER LIVER FLUKE WARNING

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR NSA NEXT GENERATION PROGRAMME

WOOL WEEK REPORT

your business your future Much work needed in Sheep Farmer December/January these uncertain times 2016/2017 Vol. 35, No 6 ISSN 0141-2434 A National Sheep Association publication. By Phil Stocker, NSA If the Brexit decision was not enough on its own to signify dissatisfaction Front page The front page picture is by professional in ‘the system’, the result of the US photographer Wayne Hutchinson and features elections surely is. one of his own Swaledale ewe lambs. To There is a deep discontent and, in supply a picture of your sheep for the front both cases, a majority have voted for page of the magazine, use the contact change. Whether real change will be details overleaf to ask NSA about photo delivered is yet to be seen, but this specifications. is all evidence that we are living in a volatile world that is difficult to predict. Uncertainty is the only certainty. Contents After decades of globalisation we 2 News round-up are hearing more about protectionism. 4 NSA reports: Devolved nations Protection of borders, economies and 6 NSA reports: English regions sovereignty. Our modern UK sheep 8 Recent conference reports industry has been influenced heavily 10 NSA Central Region Early by globalisation, and done well from manufacturing industry and will not Gathering preview it. Nearly 40% of our production is damage it with free trade deals with 12 Latest NSA voucher winners sold overseas with some 95% of this countries such as Australia on the basis 14 Update on supermarket/ going into EU nations. This, on top of of benefits for our financial services processor lamb schemes our domestic market, provides healthy industry. He suggests that while we 16 Lamb price latest competition, avoids reliance on one have some work to do to explain why, 17 Increasing lamb shelf-life route to market and gives the chance to we should be able to maintain access to 18 Bright future for renewables? get value from every bit of the animal. permanent non-seasonal migrant labour 19 NSA policy update where jobs exist and domestic labour will 20 Rural crime fighting tips not fill the demand. Seasonality 22 FARM FEATURE: NSA South West We import more or less as much as Trade and labour are only two aspects Ram Sale Chairman David Darke we export, meaning in theory we could of Brexit detail, alongside other priorities 25 Financial advice simply be self-sufficient. But seasonality, such as the future of farm support and 26 Balancing forage and due to weather patterns and related farm regulation, all of which require a grass growth, means we have adapted to lot of work from NSA if we are to get concentrates pre-lambing balancing peaks in supply by exporting anything like the sort of outcome sheep 29 Making the most of scanning and troughs by importing. Of course it’s farming needs. And it doesn’t stop with 30 Disease prevention checklist not that black and white, but it’s the Brexit – we have many other subjects 32 Artificial lamb rearing advice basis of our trade. We also rely on the needing attention and investment. The 36 Liver fluke warning migration of people, as without foreign list of policy work NSA does to benefit 38 SPECIAL FOCUS: Responsible labour our abattoir and meat processing members could continue well into the antibiotic use in lambing sheds structure would fall apart. following pages. 40 SPECIAL REPORT: Three-page Trade and labour are two priorities wool update that NSA, working with other livestock Subscriptions 44 NSA Next Generation latest interest groups, has been raising with This time last year I was delighted our Secretary of State, ministers and to be able to tell you we had delayed This NSA magazine is published with design and political leaders across the UK nations. a decision to increase membership production services provided by Ladies in Print. We cannot afford to risk falling off the subscriptions. But NSA subs have not edge of a cliff when we leave the EU, increased for many years and, to help us and if it’s correct that no trade deals can do what needs to be done to safeguard be done until we have left the EU, we the future for sheep farming in the UK, Email: [email protected] either need a pre-agreed deal that can we will be initiating a very modest £5 Tel: 01684 899255 be made immediately, or preferably a increase for full individual membership 100 substantial transitional period where two- from the start of 2017. Our half price Paper is FSC® certified. It is way access to the single market, without under 27s category will continue, as will sourced from responsibly managed forests. 95 tariffs, continues for an agreed period the 20% discount for the first year you until permanent deals are done. pay your subscription by direct debit. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or shared in any form (be in electronic, 75 Farming Minister George Eustice I truly hope you agree the volume mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) says he is confident the EU will want to and quality of work done by NSA, and without prior consent of NSA. Every care is taken when compiling this magazine and NSA and Ladies in Print take continue with tariff-free trade, due to the benefits it gives you, means your no responsibility for errors and omissions arising from the volume of mutual trade that is done. membership continues to be one of publication. Views expressed and information contained in 25 He also thinks the UK Treasury will be the best investments you can make Sheep Farmer are not necessarily those of NSA or Ladies in Print and neither party cannot be held responsible for persuaded to accept the importance of for your business – and I thank you in any reason arising from them. Neither NSA or Ladies in 5 food and farming as the UK’s largest anticipation of your ongoing support. Print endorse any services or products advertised.

0 DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 1

NSA_Aniamx_scanning_full page_11-11-16 11 November 2016 22:44:38 Red Tractor consultation Annual Regional Members Meetings National Sheep Association NSA urges members in farm assurance News programmes to be aware that Red The remaining six NSA Annual Regional Stirlingshire, FK2 8JF, 2pm on th Tractor is consulting on proposed Members Meetings have all now been Wednesday 15 February. NSA Head Office NSA Regions additions to the existing scheme. confirmed. The business at each will • The Annual Members Meeting of include: election/reapproval of the NSA Central Region will be held NSA, The Sheep Centre, Malvern, Central Although any changes will affect English Alastair Sneddon Anne Payne Update farms initially, NSA feels it could also Chairman, Vice Chairman and Treasurer; at the Bluebell Inn, Buxton Road, Worcestershire, WR13 6PH. Call 01684 Regional Chairman Regional Manager nomination/reapproval of the regional Tissington, Derbyshire, DE6 1NH, 01142 883241 impact schemes in other UK nations and 892661 (Monday-Friday 9am-5.30pm) 01629 812777 th alastair.sneddon@bagshaws. bobandanne@handbanktexels. that everyone should voice their opinions Trustee Director; election of new 7.30pm on Wednesday 15 February. or go directly to one of the team below. wanadoo.co.uk com Happy Christmas during the consultation period. committee members and endorsement • The Annual Members Meeting of Phil Stocker Everyone at NSA, from the staff at of current members; a chairman’s NSA Northern Region will be held Cymru Wales Members can feed their views to NSA NSA Chief Executive Llew Thomas Helen Davies Head Office to regional office holders as we work on our response, but please report; and a treasurer’s report relating at the Hired Lad, Penrith Auction [email protected] Regional Chairman Regional Development Officer and ram sales representatives, would also respond as an individual farmer to the region’s finances. Mart, Penrith, CA11 7JG, 7.30pm on 01267 253374 01691 654712 th like to take this opportunity to wish all before the deadline on Saturday 31st Members residing in a region are Thursday 16 February. Julie Jennings 07974 386394 07976 803066 [email protected] [email protected] members a Merry Christmas and Happy December via consultation.redtractor. eligible to appoint a proxy vote on their • The Annual Members Meeting of Association Secretary/PA to Chief Executive behalf if they cannot attend the meeting, NSA South West Region will be held [email protected] New Year. We may not know what 2017 org.uk/rta/standards-review-2017. Eastern had in store, but we all hope for it to be On the topic of consultations, NSA but this must be done in advance with at Fingle Glen Golf Hotel, Tedburn, Dan Phipps Jonathan Barber NSA Head Office. Download a proxy Exeter, Devon, EX6 6AF, 7.30pm on Helen Breakwell Regional Chairman Regional Manager prosperous and profitable. has recently responded to Defra about nd Bookkeeper/PA to Chief Executive 07836 590996 01953 607860 TB in non-bovines. The consultation notice at www.nationalsheep.org.uk/ Wednesday 22 February. [email protected] 07836 287281 07712 659262 events or contact NSA Head Office. • The Annual Members Meeting of NSA [email protected] jonathan@ceressolutions. included proposed compensation rates co.uk for sheep, which NSA argued should be Notice is hereby given that:- Cymru/Wales Region will be held at Joanne Briggs paid at a full tabular rate and not the • The Annual Members Meeting of the Royal Welsh Showground, Hafod Communications Manager Marches NSA Scottish Region will be held at y Hendre, Builth Wells, LD2 3SY, 2pm Sheep Farmer Editor half rate currently suggested. Kevin Harrison Hannah Park Airth Castle Hotel and Spa, Airth, on Thursday 23rd February. [email protected] Regional Chairman Regional Secretary 01179 323441 01684 892661 (via NSA HQ) 07900 056562 marches@nationalsheep. Hannah Park NSA questions [email protected] org.uk NSA office holder rewarded in Wales Communications Officer Please do not hesitate to contact NSA [email protected] Northern Head Office if you have any questions NSA is delighted that Helen Davies, NSA Greg Dalton Heather Stoney- about the £5 membership subscription Cymru/Wales Regional Development Laura Williams Regional Chairman Grayshon increase from 1st January 2017 – 01388 537415 Regional Manager Officer, is this year’s recipient of NSA Technical Support Officer explanation on page 1. Similarly, [email protected] 07546328241 01423 712820 the John Gittins Memorial Award for [email protected] 079666 99930 contact us if you do not currently [email protected] outstanding contributions to the Welsh Gill Callow receive the NSA Weekly Email Update or sheep industry. The judging panel said Membership Secretary Northern Ireland NSA event reminders via text. Both are Helen was the unanimous winner this [email protected] Campbell Tweed Edward Adamson free to members. Regional Chairman Regional Development Officer year, making her the first female to 07802 835355 02893 366225 Situation vacant [email protected] 07711 071290 Membership Recruitment Officer [email protected] Tell us about your rams Helen Davies Scottish If you are on the lookout for Christmas Corporate Relations Sybil Macpherson George Milne presents for sheep enthusiasts, please Regional Chairman Regional Development Officer Sheep Farmer Advertising Sales contact NSA Head Office to purchase an [email protected] 01838 200218 01334 472403 07796 018528 07831 511330 array of goods. We sell NSA mugs (£5), [email protected] [email protected] baseball caps (£5) and ties (£7 in navy, Find us at www.nationalsheep.org.uk. Follow green or burgundy). We also stock the us on Twitter @natsheep and like us on South East Facebook /natsheep Andrew Barr Bob Blanden hugely informative British Sheep Breeds Regional Chairman Regional Manager Book, written by NSA member Susannah NSA is a Company Limited by Guarantee 01273 858563 01666 860308 07768 867124 07860 689391 Parkin (£8), and the beautifully illustrated registered in England (No. 37818) and a [email protected] [email protected] BWMB British Sheep and Wool book Registered Charity in England and Wales (No. (£10). All prices include VAT. Postage and 249255) and Scotland (No. SCO42853). South West VAT No. 273 3469 44 Alan Derryman packing starts at £2.50. Regional Chairman collect the prestigious award. 01395 597836 John Lloyd of the NSA Cymru/ NSA Office Holders [email protected] Lambing list Wales Regional Committee says: Kate White Don’t forget the NSA Lambing List is “Helen deserves this recognition as an His Grace the David Gregory Regional Secretary open for business. NSA members can Duke of Montrose Honorary Treasurer 01823 672341 indefatigable and enthusiastic promoter Honorary President 07736 371640 post their details online to find a student of the Welsh sheep industry. Her many Bryan Griffiths [email protected] or students to help on the farm this Having successfully applied for funding survey to share their experiences. We roles with NSA influence the sector Samuel Wharry English Committee Chairman from the Animal Welfare Foundation have already had more than 150 replies National Chairman 07779 465729 lambing time. Application is online at in numerous ways, in addition to her 07803 270020 bryan.southcott@btconnect. www.nationalsheep.org.uk/lambing-list (AWF), NSA is facilitating a group of from all types and sizes of flocks across [email protected] com particular passion for and support of but if you do not have internet access experts to investigate the flock life of the UK, so this is obviously a topic of Suffolk sheep, working with her father to you can contact NSA Head Office. rams and reasons for deaths and culling interest to the industry.” show and promote the breed. NSA Project Partners An improvement to the service in the UK. Find the survey at www. “Helen’s involvement in NSA involves this year is the option for NSA Independent sheep consultant Lesley surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ramlongevity. a level of commitment far beyond Bob Kennard Edwin Harris members to indicate if they do Stubbings is also involved. She says: Sheep farmers with 200+ breeding that of a normal employment and it is Make More of Mutton Welsh Commons Forum “While there is plenty of opinion on ewes and four years’ of ram purchase Manager Chairman not want under 18 years olds to down to her that the NSA Welsh Sheep 07415 855530 01684 892661 (via NSA HQ) apply, and also guidelines that how long rams should and do last in information can also help by being part event continues to go from strength [email protected] hbreakwell@nationalsheep. commercial flocks, there is no actual of a one-off local focus groups to gather www.makemoreofmutton. org.uk students have to read before to strength. Helen gives her all to the org.uk www.nationalsheep.org.uk/ they can access the list on the data available. We are asking farmers more detailed data. Email enquiries@ industry and is always enthusiastic welshcommonsforum NSA Next Generation website. from across the UK to complete a short nationalsheep.org.uk to volunteer. about whatever task is thrown her way.”

2 SHEEP FARMER DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 3 NSA Scottish Region addition to our usual committee NSA reports – devolved nations By George Milne, Development Officer meeting at the end of November and Brexit talks are to the fore in Scotland now, and rightly so. All will enable discussion about what NSA Cymru/Wales Region NSA Northern Ireland Region politicians at all levels are discussing options for the future, so we want to see going forward. it is up to us to collectively agree where we want our sector to By Helen Davies, Development Officer By Edward Adamson, Development Officer be in 20 years. By the time you read this, NSA It’s now December and more than Winter events NSA will need to be at the forefront of delivering a policy to We hope to run a Brexit conference Cymru/Wales Region will have 90% of our eligible farmers have received all justify securing a budget for support payments going forward, for members to attend in early 2017 enjoyed a busy couple of days at or part of their Basic Far Payment. as well as suggesting a mechanism for delivering support but, in the meantime, ‘Opportunities for the Welsh Winter Fair. This is very positive, but on the other directly to active producers. Scotch Lamb’ roadshow meetings have In addition to our usual activity sponsoring hand the 150+ items eligible under the Farm Trade will be most important, as 96% of all exported UK been organised in conjunction with Caltech the hill and native breed section, we also Business Investment Scheme Capital Grant lamb goes to EU countries. New Crystalyx. The first one was on 30th organised a regional launch of the NSA Complementary include very few related to the sheep sector, despite NSA trade agreements cannot be signed November at Moffat and, depending role of sheep in upland and hill areas report, held cooking corresponding with DAERA on a list of suggestions. If post- until we officially exit, so some form on when you read this, you may be demonstrations in conjunction with HCC and our NSA Next Brexit support is to move away from area-based payments, any of transition period will have to be able to join us on 7th December Generation Ambassadors Jacob Anthony and Dan Pritchard, capital grant scheme will need to allow more flexibility and be put in place and trade talks should at Carfraemill Hotel, Lauder, or and provided mutton tastings from the NSA stand with mutton more realistic about the requirements of farmers. begin now. Tariffs and quotas will 17th January at Weigh Inn Hotel, kindly donated by Regional Chairman Llew Thomas. need to be agreed, and rules and Thurso. Speakers will include Other recent activity has included meeting with HCC and French trip regulation can be looked at, but myself, QMS’s Stuart Ashworth other industry partners to discuss the low market prices seen NSA Northern Ireland Region organised a trip for sheep we must remember any changes and Caltech’s Euan Hart. Details at for light lambs this year, posing a challenge for some hill farmers to visit farms and research facilities in the Limoges must be compliant with World Trade www.nationalsheep.org.uk/events. farmers. We welcomed this opportunity to discuss the factors region of France in early October, plus the world famous Organisation (WTO) rules and with The Scottish Government had behind the price dip and look at ongoing HCC work to promote Sommet de L’Elevage Livestock Show in Clermont Ferrand. A the various export conditions set up applied to the EU for BSE negligible this traditional product. We all need to work unanimously in visit to Du Mourier Experimental Farm, run by Le CIIRPO and countries we want to trade with. risk status, with a possible this area, including encouraging producers to engage in regular connected to livestock breeding research and development Timescales may be uncertain but outcome in May 2017. While discussion with their chosen market outlet to gauge when by the Institut de L’Elevage, showed how information is we have to work with what we know NSA is working towards carcase the product is likely to be in highest demand and achieve disseminated to French farmers with the support of 15 sheep at the moment and look towards an splitting changes for the whole of maximum returns as a result. farmers on the advisory board. The farm runs 720 ewes on Article 50 agreement being signed in the UK, if Scotland is successful 95ha of different grazing systems, including work to compare March 2017 and a UK exit by 2020. in this area, it will allow us to Preserving genetics cell grazing versus set stocking for production, labour, With this in mind, NSA Scottish argue to completely end splitting Committee member Margaret Dalton represented NSA Cymru/ economics, environmental issues and grass structure. Region has organised a meeting requirements and potentially Wales Region at a meeting to discuss the future of the Other visits were to sheep farms, including the 116ha farm for mid-December to specifically George will once again be involved in the popular NSA access new export markets ahead pedigree flocks at IBERS, to reflect industry concerns that, of Colin and Zoe Horlock, who moved from Essex 13 years concentrate on Brexit. This is in Scottish Region roadshow meetings this winter. of the rest of the UK. while the flock may be struggling financially, selling the sheep ago. Their 500-ewe flock is based on a crisscross of Suffolk would terminate more than 40 years of genetics work. It is and Charollais grazed on a paddock system. With no rain since hoped a solution will be found. the end of June it was difficult to see any difference in the Our recent committee meeting discussed a whole range of grazed paddock and the one they were moving into; they had topics concerning Brexit and included a very informative talk made excellent hay early in the summer but used half of it from EID Cymru. We are now looking ahead to the NSA Cymru/ already. The biggest surprise of the visit was being greeted by Wales Annual Regional Members Meeting on Thursday 23rd William and Fiona Elliot, who moved to France a few years ago POWERFULLY February – details on page 3. from Tildarg, Ballyclare. Word had got out through their lamb A new system for defining agricultural holdings and group that an NI party was visiting and they came to meet us! registering temporary land has been launched in Wales, but PRACTICAL. changes will be rolled out gradually over two years and you do Report launch not need to take any action until you are contacted by Rural We had a regional launch in November for the NSA If you’re looking for a dependable multi-purpose tractor Payment Wales, other than to familiarise yourselves with what Complementary role of sheep in upland and hill areas report. equally suited to smaller farms as well as the intensive is planned. Part of the changes is to remove all CTS links, so A tour of CAFRE’s Glenwherry hill farm was followed by a professional farmer, the MK5000 from Kubota is the ideal new applications are no longer being accepted for these. presentation by Joanne Briggs, NSA Communications Manager, solution. Economical and robust, this utility tractor benefits from a powerful 48.2 hp 4-cylinder diesel engine and 8F/8R We have a new website for NSA Welsh Sheep, our biennial giving all attending a chance to understand the limitations gears with synchronised power shuttle for maximum event to be held on Tuesday 16th May. Online trade stand and potential of marginal farms, and the restrictive nature of versatility. While hydrostatic steering and a flat and bookings and event information is at www.welshsheep.org.uk. current regulations. spacious operator deck with suspended pedals ensure greater user comfort. For more information about Kubota’s diverse range of world-class agriculture machines and aftersales support service, visit www.kubota.co.uk or call 01844 873156.

NSA Welsh Sheep 2017 is being hosted by Godfrey, Stephen, The NSA Northern Ireland Region trip to France included visits Luke and Lisa Williams. to a number of research and commercial farms.

Sheep Farmer_Powerfully Practical_MK5000_134x182.indd 1 31/10/2016 11:24 4 SHEEP FARMER DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 5 early November in Penrith, Cumbria. Once again Brexit featured NSA reports – English regions highly, with discussion being generated thanks to information NZ-inspired farm walk on the topic from NSA Head Office. There is a lot of uncertainty ahead, but we must work together to achieve the best possible Central was appointed as Next Generation group outcome for the whole industry. By Anne Payne, Manager a member of the The end of November will see a second organising Plans for our new regional committee committee meeting for NSA North Sheep 2017. Our new- look winter event at and elected to look NSA North Sheep website is live and stand space and Bakewell Livestock Market on Thursday help represent sponsorship for the event on Wednesday 7th June can now be 26th January, newly named as the NSA our region at NSA booked at www.northsheep.org.uk. New for 2017 is a section Central Region Early Gathering, are English Committee for individual breeders to book stands, and those who are NSA coming along. meetings. members can enjoy a discounted rate. We are preparing a varied programme Our NSA Eastern The NSA Northern Region Annual Regional Members of demonstrations, interactive workshops Region Next Meeting is on Thursday 16th February 2017 – details on page and seminars, as well as having trade Generation group is 3. We invite you all in the region to join us. stands and holding both the NSA due to meet before Next Generation Shepherd and Junior Christmas, and South East Shepherd competitions again. This is a again before lambing By Bob Blanden, Manager The wet weather did not dampen enthusiasm at an NSA must-see event, covering many topical time. This group Our second of two ‘Rams: Fit for Purpose’ South West Region farm walk. was formed recently issues - details on page 10. NSA Eastern Region is the first to set up a regional Next meetings was held jointly with AHDB Beef & The NSA Central Region Annual by Ewan, who also Lamb in late September, by kind permission Some of you will have recently received a letter about spoke at the NSA Generation group. More people are very welcome to attend Regional Members Meeting is being the next meeting. Regional contact details on page 2. of James Barker, Manor Farm, Bedfordshire. the new movement rules, with more of you set to hear from held on Wednesday 15th February Next Generation AHDB’s Nerys Wright again did the business efficiently, Defra as the changes are rolled out. Make sure you check the 2017 – details on page 3. Joanne event in Stratford me the opportunity to meet some great supported by the farm’s vet Oliver Sheldon. About to go on details and read the letter thoroughly, as there is a limit to the Briggs, NSA Communications Manager, Livestock Market in November – more on sheep farmers and wonderful characters maternity leave, she certainly wasn’t going to attempt to turn amount of time before any existing grass keep numbers and/or will be updating us on NSA’s current page 44. We will be holding a Youthful across the region and beyond. One of James’s big Suffolk tups over! We would like to record our temporary holdings disappear. Don’t get caught out. th and ongoing work, including that Shepherds Event on Saturday 10 the most rewarding duties has been best wishes to Nerys on the forthcoming arrival and, during The NSA South West Annual Regional Members Meeting around Brexit and the Next Generation June at the Godolphin Stud (previously my involvement with the NSA Next her absence, we will be well provided for by AHDB in our will be held on Wednesday 22nd February – details on page 3. programme. A hot-pot supper with British Darley), Newmarket, Suffolk. Generation programme and particularly region. Nerys does an outstanding job, is active on our regional We invite you all in the region to join us for the evening, where sheep meat will follow. Also next year, we will be working the NSA Next Generation Ambassadors. committee and always pleased to support our activities. we hope to have guest speakers from Red Tractor Assurance The warm, mild weather we’ve together with NSA Head Office at the To see so much young talent coming into It has been decided to not repeat the Sheep Health and an update from one of our regional NSA Next Generation th th seen throughout this year’s growing Cereals Event on 14 - 15 June to the industry from all NSA regions is very Conference we held in conjunction with our Annual Regional Ambassadors. We’ll enjoy a bite to eat at the end and look season means many folk are reporting explain the benefits of sheep in arable encouraging, and it’s great to see their Members Meeting (ARMM) last year, although the committee forward to seeing many of you there. continuing problems with feet, flystrike, farming areas. The region will be holding confidence and abilities grow as they get is considering holding this in autumn instead. Our 2017 th fluke and nematodirus, as well as some a farm walk on Friday 19 May too, by more involved in the organisation. ARMM will be on Wednesday 8th February – details on page feeling that conditions this year may kind permission of Richard Thompson of I hope to continue to contribute 3 and at www.nationalsheep.org.uk/events. Following formal lead to a greater need for a pasteurella George Thomson Farms, the Grove, Hurn to the region and to the NSA Next business will be an update from some of our regional NSA Next vaccine. On the plus side, there is a Bank, Holbeach, Spalding, Lincolnshire, Generation project, as well as my Generation Ambassadors on how they feel the programme has reported rise in interest in tackling the PE12 8JJ, which will provide a great positions representing Marches Region helped them. Gordon Wyeth, Farmers Weekly Sheep Farmer huge problem of worm resistance, with example of integrating livestock, sheep and England on the NSA English and of the Year 2016, will give a talk on his farming enterprises, The natural choice for healthy more farmers now using the group four and cattle into a first-class arable farm. NSA UK Policy and Technical committees followed by local farmer Ian Robertson and Signet’s Steve West and five wormers. At a recent meeting, the region respectively. Both are very important explaining the Ram Compare Project and Ian’s involvement in growth and performance Conditions do at least mean there discussed dog worrying in length, not in getting sheep farmers thoughts it. An Irish stew and baked potatoes will be provided, so for has been no shortage of grass and this only for the damage it does to sheep, and opinions heard from the ground catering purposes please let me know if you plan to attend – appears to have encouraged good prices but to farmers who are left feeling up, which is vital in the changing and contact details on page 2. for lambs in the early part of the season, that they are not respected and can challenging time we face. Feel free to NSA South East Region has also been lending weight to alongside the weaker pound, though do nothing to prevent reckless dog contact me still if you have any concerns an issue the Small Shepherd Club has highlighted, regarding this appears to have faded somewhat owners from destroying their sheep and that you want to discuss. package sizes of bluetongue vaccine. It is great to be working as Brexit influences continue. Breeding livelihoods. NSA was congratulated on Finally, I would like to thank all of the with this not-so-small organisation, which is mainly active within sales seem to have been a bit variable, the ongoing work it does in conjunction regional committee for their help over our region. with some showing improved prices on with others on the issue. the years and you as members for your last year and others not. As for winter ongoing support. NSA Marches Region South West fodder, the plentiful supplies for most Marches now has 700 members and long may it By Kate White, Secretary will act as a reassurance, should the By Kevin Harrison, Chairman continue to grow and strengthen. Back in late September, approximately forecast weather conditions prove to be By the time you read this, 85 farmers met and enjoyed a thoroughly as unfriendly as we’re led to believe. we will have appointed a new regional Northern interesting farm tour at Matt and Pip chairman and I wish them all the best in By Heather Stoney- Smith’s farm on the edge of Bodmin, Cornwall. their appointment. Grayshon, Manager Matt won the nine-hour ewe world shearing record in July Eastern Quality milk replacers, dedication and scientific I have thoroughly enjoyed my role for September and By Jonathan Barber, this year, shearing 731 sheep in nine hours. He and his wife knowledge for a healthy start Manager the last three years and, while standing October saw Pip kindly escorted us around their farm, where we looked down may leave me with an element You want to give your lambs the best start in life. Milkivit stands We held our Annual regional members at grassland and fodder management and the New Zealand for dedication to quality milk replacers for over 60 years, and this Regional Members Meeting in mid- of sadness, I will look back fondly on busy with the annual sheep sales. farming methods Kiwi-born Matt has brought over with him. experience combined with the latest scientific knowledge can help ensure healthy growth and performance of your lambs. October, which had a good attendance. what we have achieved over those three Generally decent trade had been seen Focusing on increasing efficiency and enabling higher stocking years. To learn more about the full range of Milkivit milk replacers this Dan Phipps was reapproved as across the board and the prime lamb rates, everything Matt and Pip seem to be doing makes a lot of lambing time, ask your feed adviser or animal health supplier. Chairman, with Ewan Cumming, an NSA NSA sheep events, debates, joint trade has held steady, helping some of sense and it was great to see such enthusiastic, hardworking Next Generation Ambassador, continuing AHDB meetings, young shepherd the later ewe lamb trade, which seems young farmers working with and maximising what they have got. as Vice Chairman. Robert Spink, also competitions, prize giveaways and farm to be up a little as demand remains. A full report can be found in the “Event Reports” section at trouwnutrition.co.uk an NSA Next Generation Ambassador, walks, to name a few, have all given A committee meeting was held in www.nationalsheep.org.uk/events.

6 SHEEP FARMER DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 7 Role for everyone in sheep health INTRODUCING FARM ESSENTIALS

By Laura Williams, NSA drivers of performance include nutrition, The importance of improving the genetics, body condition and grass SHAWG future health and welfare of the UK sheep management.” Peter Baber, long-standing Sheep Health flock is essential for the optimal use When asked about the benefits of and Welfare Group (SHAWG) Chairman, retired at this year’s conference. He INSURANCE FOR of nutrients for best performance, the paying for an independent consultant, production of a safe and quality product Mr Anthony added: “They have the was replace by Leicestershire sheep and a reduced environmental impact. knowledge and practical experience. It is farmer Charles Sercombe who, like Mr That was the vision expressed priceless, a no brainer”. Baber, has an active role within NSA. at the SHAWG biennial conference Phil Stocker, NSA Chief Executive, says: “The current position of SHAWG in the SMALLER FARMS by a number of farmer and industry Medicines speakers. Ben Anthony, a farmer who The main focus of the afternoon session industry is a real credit to Peter and all has worked closely with independent was how farmers could make the most the work he has done for the past eight sheep consultant Lesley Stubbings, told of the investment in medicines on farm, years, which we really appreciate.” of the success he has in terms of health and where reliance on antimicrobials to utilise health planning and build performance. He said: “The biggest and anthelmintics could be reduced. strong relationships to improve flock Sheep vet Fiona Lovatt raised essential output for maximum product value and tips to remember for medicine use. minimum costs. But speakers made it “Right product to the right animals at the clear that for every farmer to achieve right time,” she said. “And as little as optimum production results, health and possibly but as much as necessary.” performance advice must be flock- She added: “There are two types of specific and not ‘one size fits all’. sheep farmer. Those who are active in It was also decided, through their flock health management, profitable roundtable discussions, that every and business-like, to whom the use of single member of the sheep sector, be their vet saves them money; and those it farmers, vets or industry bodies, had to whom the use of their vet costs them a role to play in the improvement of money.” health and welfare, and particularly the It was raised by both the experts reduction of anthelmintic and antibiotic This was the third biennial Sheep Health and the audience that a good sheep vet use through the knowledge exchange of and Welfare Group conference. is hard to find, which makes it difficult best practice methods. Lamb to lead innovation march? By Joanne Briggs, NSA considered natural ingredients. The future of grocery shopping is going There is also a role for lamb in the to be a computer automatically ordering rise of dine-in product ranges (the cupboard staples, such as baked glamorous successor of ready meals). beans and pasta, with online stores These ranges, alongside food-to-go, and physical supermarkets fighting to were emphasised within discussions inspire and excite shoppers with new around the massive switch from large and innovative products in the fresh out-of-town supermarkets to smaller high food category. street convenience stores. That was the vision presented at this year’s Institute of Grocery Distribution Convenience (IGD) conference, which was pretty brutal Michael Fletcher from Co-op said: Channel 4 News presenter Krishnan in telling retailers and suppliers they “Convenience is growing because people Guru-Murthy (far right) chaired panel weren’t currently doing enough to excite need to top up their online shop or discussions during the day. consumers. Supermarkets were boring discount shop. Good quality, fresh food and uninspiring, speakers said, and the experience.” is number one here, above price, as 40% rise of Lidl and Aldi was not all about low Matt Hill from Kraft Heinz echoed this, of people do not know what they’re going WE KNOW WHAT MAKES SMALL FARMS DIFFERENT prices but also the surprise of shopping saying that even a company as big as his to eat tonight and want inspiration.” in an unpredictable ‘Aladdin’s cave’. struggled to get supermarkets to think This ‘instant gratification’ was To find out how Farm Essentials insurance cover outside the box. “Uniform shop shelves highlighted by retail psychologist Innovation that look like library shelves leave Dimitrios Tsivrikos as indicative of the can benefit your farm, contact your local Agent. Joanne Denney-Finch of IGD said: “In shoppers on autopilot,” he said. mobile age, with Martijn Bertisen of When it counts, we don’t quibble on paying claims. the decade where online shopping Mr Hill and other speakers opened Google saying 40% of all search engine and smart phones have fundamentally the door for red meat to lead such uses were now conducted on mobile nfumutual.co.uk/farmessentials changed our culture and social innovation, as protein was the ‘food devices looking for a nearby service, behaviour, supermarkets have remained hero’ against the villains of sugar and store or restaurant. He claimed that the same. Fresh food is where our salt. Reflecting on the challenges facing while 80% of sales were still in physical emotions come in and we need more confectioners, Blas Maquivar of Mars shops, nearly all were ‘touched by the innovation. Shoppers are looking for said 65% of shoppers were now looking internet’ in some way, be it googling a a different, more exciting shopping to cut fat consumption and 43% actively store, recipe or meal idea. The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No.111982). Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. A member of the Association of British Insurers. For security and training purposes telephone calls may be recorded and monitored. 8 SHEEP FARMER January health check offered by 0% finance now revamped Central Region event available on handling January will see the return of the NSA planning, and the Central Region winter event – this year challenges and sporting a new look as the NSA Central opportunities facing Region Early Gathering. young and new and weighing equipment Once again held in Bakewell Market, entrants to the a focus on keeping the event indoors industry. Next will be out of the winter weather will see a a seminar focusing selection of trade stands in the spacious on both the health concourse area complemented by a of the sheepdog and rolling programme of seminars and demonstrations. Visitors can chose what to get involved in on the day, gaining maximum knowledge from minimum Above: The new look event will bring concentration. everything undercover in the main The event will have a health theme, market. covering a wide range of topics:- Left: Seminars, demonstrations and • Health of the industry workshops will fill the day. • Health of the countryside • Health of the shepherd As in previous years, there will also • Health of the sheepdog the shepherd, supported by a ‘health be the NSA Next Generation Shepherd • Health of your records check corner’ from the market’s regular Competition, with a Junior Shepherd • Healthy competition nurse and physio available throughout sections for younger competitors. Both Seminars in the morning will see NSA the day. will challenge and encourage the next Next Generation Ambassadors talk A ‘big debate’ will generate generation of farmers and help them about ways into the industry, succession interesting discussion around the future hone their sheep husbandry skills. of the sector and will include short Alastair Sneddon, NSA Central Region NSA Central Region Early presentations on Brexit and the future of Chairman, says: “This event will be BPS, lamb marketing and consumption more undercover and therefore much Gathering trends, and the NSA Complementary role warmer than in previous years, aiming • Thursday 26th January 2017. of sheep in upland and hill areas report. to give visitors a quick top-up of relevant • Bakewell Market, Agricultural The rolling programme of information in what is otherwise a quiet Business Centre, Bakewell, demonstrations and workshops will be time for the industry. The focus on Derbyshire, DE45 1AH. found in both livestock rings. The small health may seem specific, but can be • Event open from 10am to 4pm. ring will see butchery demonstrations applied to all areas of the sector and • Free admission for NSA members; from AHDB and an interactive exercise we will give a ‘New Year sheep industry £5 for non-members. led by a variety of industry experts on health check’ through our seminars, • Enquiries to Anne Payne, Event current health issues facing the sheep workshops and debates. Bags full of Organiser. Contact details on page 2. sector. In the main ring, a seminar on information delivered in one event has • More information at www. keeping farm records will be repeated not been done before under one roof in * nationalsheep.org.uk/events/nsa- alongside a focus on lameness from Central Region, and we look forward to This system for £345 per month central-region-early-gathering. MSD Animal Health. making the event a huge success.”

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Based on purchase price of £8275. Initial payment of £1379.16 followed by 20 payments of £344.79. Credit subject to status and other fees apply. Prattley, Alligator and TruTest distributed in the UK by Cox and Ritchey part of the Allflex UK Group. Final winners announced in NSA prize draw voucher giveaway The draw for the sixth and final set of names marked the end of the NSA 2016 prize draw giveaway. This brought the final Darren Hough, Greater Manchester number of winners up to 18, all of whom won a £200 voucher Based on the outskirts of Saddleworth Moor near Grasscroft, for Cox Agri/Ritchey, FecpackG2 or JG Animal Health. Greater Manchester, Darren Hough has had an involvement Congratulations to the final three winners: Sandra Vine in sheep all his life and runs a commercial flock of 800 ewes of Hailsham, East Sussex, Glenda Jones from Boncath, alongside a pedigree Texel flock. Pembrokeshire, and Roger Bates from Glyn Ceiriog, He says: “The main of our commercial ewes are put to the Denbighshire. Texel, while some of the smaller ewes are put to the Suffolk Due to an admin error, the third winner in the fifth prize draw to add weight for the prime lamb trade. We also use the was not announced in the previous issue of Sheep Farmer. Charollais on shearlings to encourage easy lambing, which NSA can now confirm this as Darren Hough, based on the takes place inside starting outskirts of the Saddleworth Moor, Greater Manchester. His mid-March. I have several prize was a £200 FecpakG2 voucher. friends who are members Commiserations to the many members and referring of NSA and, having heard members who missed out this time, but there will be more great reports, had been chances to win in 2017, with details of a new prize draw to meaning to sign up as a be announced early in January. As in previous membership member for a while. It was recruitment campaigns, new members will be automatically an added bonus to do it at entered into the draw and existing members can gain unlimited NSA Sheep 2016 and get entries by referring friends and neighbours to join NSA. into the event for free.” Details of all NSA membership recruitment prize draws at www.nationalsheep.org.uk/draw. Roger Bates, Denbighshire, and Glenda Jones, Pembrokeshire Two winners from opposite ends of Wales were announced Contribtion to Faecal Egg Leading brands including Heiniger, Premier Sheep Count subscriptions Prattley, Tru-Test and Sprayline Mineral Drench in this final prize draw: Roger Bates from Glyn Ceiriog, Denbighshire, and Glenda Jones of Boncath, Pembrokeshire. They have won £200 vouchers for Cox Agri/Ritchey and Sandra Vine, East Sussex FecpakG2 respectively. A spur of the moment decision to sign up as members at Mr Bates says he couldn’t have been more surprised when NSA South Sheep earlier this year has paid off for mother- he got the call to say he’d won and nearly hung up thinking and-son partnership Sandra and James Vine. They now have it was a hoax. He took over the family farm in 1992, the a £200 JG Animal Health voucher to spend on their farm on majority of which lies 1,000ft above sea level on the North the Pevensey Levels, East Sussex. East Wales coastline. Two thirds of his flock are Easycare, Mrs Vine says she started farming when she got married with Easycare tups being put on the best wool shedding and has since formed a new partnership with son James ewes. The remaining ewes are crossed with a terminal sire. when husband Les sadly passed away last year. She says: Lambing starts in late April with minimal use of concentrates. “The partnership works well with James responsible for all Mrs Jones’ family farm is a mixed sheep, beef and arable the practical sheep work and myself on the office side of enterprise running alongside catering cottages. A flock of 600 things. We have a flock of 500 ewes, mainly Romneys and ewes is mostly made up of Texels put to Charollais and Lleyn some Suffolk Mules. We keep some of the Romneys pure to tups. Innovis genetics have also been introduced recently, breed replacements and put the rest to the Texel. James also which Mrs Jones hopes will improve performance, thriftiness keeps some Texel and Charollais ewes to breed pure.” and ease of lambing.

12 SHEEP FARMER DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 13 Waitrose says all its UK fresh lamb is branded from a region (Welsh, West Country, Welsh Organic, West Country ABP and Alpha Rams Organic and Salt Marsh) or breed (Dorset and Abervale). Lamb Three tiers of entry to the Alpha Ram Producer Group. Assessing the role of processor • Bronze: 5p/kg bonus for using Alpha rams. sales are promoted throughout the year and all schemes have a Dalehead Foods base price and a specific grid to • Silver: 10p/kg bonus for using Alpha rams, implementing reward quality. Producer groups are scheme specific and have rotational grazing and FECs, attending discussion groups and supermarket lamb schemes representation on the Waitrose lamb development forums. and taking consultancy advice. Regional supermarket Booths claims to be the only • Gold: 15p/kg bonus for all the above plus lamb By Howard Walsh, contributor supermarket to stock Herdwick lamb and mutton and it was performance recording, sire identification on a percentage Most major supermarkets, in collaboration with their the success of this line, introduced seven years ago, which of lambs, dam breed identification of lambs supplied, and processors, have breed specific or regionally specific branded prompted the introduction of salt marsh lamb too. Herdwick breeding replacements using Alpha maternal sires lamb at varying times of year, some of which pay the producer is sold from January to May, followed by salt marsh until What is an Alpha ram? a premium. September. Both command a premium at retail level and this is • High health status including MV accreditation and CLA The precise details of the retailer backed bonuses are often passed back to the farmer. testing. regarded as ‘commercially sensitive’ and only made available Meat buyer David Simons said: “Returning shoppers to • Born and reared on a grass-only regime. to farmer suppliers, but what do we know about what is native breeds and marketing them as something special and • From a flock recording with Signet, including ultrasound currently on offer? worth paying a premium for will ultimately benefit farmers in and CT scanning. Many of the current schemes in place have come about as a reputation and open up other markets for their goods.” • From a flock doing regular FECs. result of processor, retailer and, in some cases, breed society collaboration, boosted by the constant need to innovate and Cost of production member’s sheep enterprises. The latter is as much in ABP’s develop new marketing propositions. Tesco’s Finest range incorporates lambs from designated interest, he says, to make flocks more sustainable and Mike Whittemore, AHDB Beef & Lamb Head of Trade and regions as the season progresses, beginning with the South therefore safeguard the long term supply of lamb. He says his concerns about the profitability of the UK sheep sector being Product Developmen, says anything encouraging lamb retail Breed-specific supermarket schemes include the Swaledale West and progressing through Welsh Hill, North of England and hamstrung by a continuing focus on ‘beauty’ and the showring, sales should be welcomed, including any of these schemes, initiative from Marks and Spencer. then Scottish. Producers receive a premium over the standard despite the fact they represent only a fraction of total lamb grid for in-spec lambs. Tesco is also pursuing its cost of rather than EBVs, led him to get interested in the New Zealand emphasis on genetics and maximising the potential of grass sales. But he also believes there is more to do, at both farm “Generally speaking I think it is in the sheep industry’s production model with 100 producers. while reducing labour costs. and retail level. He says: “Who wants fat and bone these days? interest for there to be more of these selling propositions, However, Tesco is not involved in the joint arrangement “By collaborating with some of the UK’s most innovative Certainly not the younger consumers, which is why retailers’ coupled with more innovation at point-of-sale, with clear between its lamb supplier Two Sisters Red Meat and Innovis. ram breeders we will help bring about the necessary changes premium branded packs can command a premium and why labelling and more effort put into ‘telling the story’ behind the Launched earlier this summer, the scheme sees rams of a required in the sheep industry more quickly,” Mr Feehan says, lamb producer group members, who strive to improve the grade different products.” newly developed composite hired to farmers suppling Two describing the bonus payments as ‘pump-priming’ for other of the lambs they are sending in, should see some of that One scheme, in existence for almost 10 years, sees Sisters. It is understood all 73 rams made available this measures to improve profitability for group members. premium.” Scottish Blackface lamb branded as Border Blackface in season have been taken up, with a graduated hire charge to Robyn Hulme of EasyRam’s agrees, saying a potentially Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference range for three or four months be deducted from finishers’ lamb payments. Consignors next attainable improvement of 2% on killing out percentage alone Differentiation in winter and early spring. It slots into the supermarket’s Taste spring will be given the option of payment on the standard grid, would see the bonuses pale into insignificance. Phil Stocker, NSA Chief Executive, says most retailer-processor the Difference supply with West Country and Welsh Hill lamb. or on a grid with enhanced payments for in-spec lambs but schemes that differentiate product on the shelves send correct These all attract a substantial premium on their own grid. higher penalties for those falling outside the required spec. signals back through the supply chain, and offer a welcome Aileen McFadzean, Blackface Sheep Breeders’ Association Performance recording is an integral part of the deal. premium to the producer. He says: “They can help to grow or Secretary, says: “The scheme takes just over 25,000 lambs Another scheme with no specific retailer backing is the more at least maintain lamb’s share of the market, and to promote each season and the valuable thing is that finishers are recently announced collaborative venture by processor ABP and it as more than just a commodity product. But we must be eligible to supply, not just breeders. This therefore creates an the Alpha Ram Producer Group. It initially includes Easyrams aware of any one scheme dominating and therefore possibly important store lamb outlet for our breeders in the West of and the Meatlinc Sheep Company but with the intention that Life-Gard distorting the decisions flockmasters make. Scotland who simply do not have the grazing to finish lambs.” more like-minded ram breeders (for terminal sires and maternal traits) will get on board in time. New Generation Colostrum Paste Bonus payments Lamb producers joining the group will receive bonus Sainsbury’s also has a YFC scheme in Wales, run through payments of 5-15p/kg deadweight over and above the ruling Dunbia Llanybydder and designed to help new and younger grid price at ABP’s Yetminster site – see panel. They can also shepherds develop their businesses. It provides a bonus above access group meetings and consultancy advice. the British price and a further headage bonus for hitting target Steven Feehan, ABP Head of UK Procurement, says the aim The Specialists In Animal Feed Supplements specification. A further headage payment is made to YFC to of the Alpha Lamb Producer Group is to improve the quality 500kg FEED & MINERAL BLOCKS support their activities. of lamb produced for ABP and the profitability of individual CAREFREE SUPPLEMENTATION Entering its seventh season is Marks and Spencer’s 500kg blocks in bio-degradable boxes delivered shrink wrapped on pallets Swaledale lamb scheme, in conjunction with processor Dawn Meats. The product is included in the retailer’s Speciality Lamb range between January and April and a new award was presented for the first time this year to the lamb producer achieving the best hit rate for lambs in-spec. The Speciality Lamb range also includes Cotswold (May-June), salt marsh (July-September) and Borders (September-December). 100,000’s of lambs across the UK Asda last year made a commitment to increase sourcing and promotion of British lamb and said it was intent on working with have seen the benefits. producers in its LambLink scheme to deliver increased value Yours could too! ● HIGH SPECIFICATION FEED AND MINERAL BLOCKS FULLY WEATHERPROOF ● PROTEIN FROM HI PRO SOYA MEAL, MOLASSES AND FISH OIL FOR ENERGY back to sheep farmers long-term. ● 24 HOUR ACCESS TO SUPPLEMENT FOR SHY FEEDERS Included in the Co-op Truly Irresistible fresh lamb range, ● LABOUR SAVING FEEDING SYSTEM, TRIED AND TESTED Minexcel Nutrition Brandesburton Driffield YO25 8RS in addition to its standard lamb, are cuts produced from ● MADE TO ORDER, SPECIALS NO PROBLEM Contact John Tel: 01964 542518 ● REDUCED WASTE, SAVES MONEY OVER BUCKETS native breeds in the Cambrian Mountains of mid-Wales. There Mob: 07776194155 are 21 producers in the group who supply at selected times Dallas Keith Ltd, Bromag Industrial Estate, Burford Road, throughout the year. They are required to undertake carbon Launching the Alpha Ram project: From left to right, George Witney, Oxon OX29 0SR footprint assessments and maintain strict animal welfare and Fell of the Meatlinc Sheep Company, ABP’s Mark Eastwood Telephone: 01993 773061 / www.dallaskeith.co.uk environmental standards. and Robyn Hulme of Easyrams.

14 SHEEP FARMER DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 15 COMMENT PIECE Options to increase lamb shelf-life Industry experts comment on By James Ruggeri, HCC With our future trading relationship with Europe under discussion, it has never been more important to develop new markets ‘buoyant and consistent’ trade further afield. Increasing the shelf-life of PGI Welsh Lamb is therefore a key objective, as it Despite the slight seasonal dip in recent could provide a greater competitive advantage weeks, the prime sheep market is showing in markets such as North America, the Middle East and Asia. great consistency with considerable Extended shelf-life would reduce freight costs, as sea increases over 2015 figures, according freight, rather than air freight, could be utilised. It could also to some of the leading markets and enable Welsh Lamb to compete more effectively with New auctioneers across the UK. Zealand chilled lamb, which already has a shelf-life of up to “It has certainly been much easier to export 100 days, and help extend the seasonal availability of Welsh because of the exchange rate, and that can be seen as a direct result Lamb in the UK. of the Brexit vote,” says Archie Hamilton of Longtown Mart, Carlisle. “While there have been some seasonal fluctuations, we are Lamb presentation currently selling lambs at around 15-20p/kg up on levels seen at this Cleanliness levels throughout the supply chain have the time last year, and that has by and large been the case all season. greatest impact on shelf-life. Hygienic practices, along Farmers have had a good season for breeding, prime sheep and cull Sending clean stock to slaughter is a major part of extending with good temperature control once the animal has been the shelf-life of lamb. ewes, and this filters throughout the industry when there are good NEWslaughtered, 2013 help RTV400 keep microbial / 500contamination to an absolute returns.” minimum. Consideration should therefore be given to on- The same study took 60 lambs from the same farm and Prime lamb sales this year have been consistently good. The best all terrain utility vehicle just got smaller This view is mirrored by Elwyn Davies of Hobbs Parker Compact farm practices to maintain and improve the cleanliness and compared a group transported to the abattoir without being Auctioneers at Ashford Market, Kent. He says: “The trade for forever. “We always see a period, usually just as the supermarkets in two presentationrobust, responsive of lambs and affordable prior to transportation.packages. For instance, housed and groups housed for six and 12 hours prior to finished lambs has been strong in recent months and followed move on to New Zealand lamb, in which our old season lambs all With twolambs high performance clipped modelsand then to choose returned from, either to a a field 15.8HP before being transportation. on from the favourable results during the summer. Throughout start to come heavier,” he warns. “This results in the lightweights All lambs were weighted and classified according to FSA liquid-cooledtransported or a 16HP air-cooledto an abattoir, EFI petrol engineespecially version. at this time of year, may September and early October, overall averages of around 175p/ beingVersatility in short supply and in high demand.” be soiled again. Clean Livestock Policy immediately prior to slaughter. The These compact RTVs deliver outstanding durability and reliability kg were the norm, some 25p/kg above those achieved over the Given the blistering trade of feeding lambs this year, Mr In practical terms, clipping belly wool should be delayed trial demonstrated the withdrawal of feed for up to 12 hours offering chokeless quick cold starts and selectable 4WD - ideal for same period last year. The lamb trade continues to benefit from a Dodsworth feels the smart store lamb buyer needs to box clever until lambs are fit for sale, with stock kept on clean, dry before transportation effectively decreased the dirtiness of the favourable exchange rate and relatively tight supplies nationally, due when the time comes to sell them back in the prime rings. He livestock,bedding amenity or afterwards. country pursuits. The dock area must be clipped and three animals prior to slaughter, without having a negative impact on to difficult finishing conditions. says: “If you’re putting sheep away on roots with the intention of Both RTV’sstrokes feature upKubota’s the innovativebelly are transmission necessary for ultimateto comply with abattoir slaughter weight and carcase conformation. “Stores have seen a good steady trade throughout, averaging selling them in March or April, I suggest a smaller breed at a smaller control andrequirements. safety on hill descents Lambs and should are powerful also and be rugged free of dags. The role of the producers in boosting shelf-life is just one around £57 per head, with the best crossbred lambs selling readily bought-in price might just pay dividends. A Beltex, Hill Cheviot or enough to handleA recent any terrain HCC or studyany task, revealed all day, every reluctance day. among some element highlighted in HCC’s Selection for Slaughter training; at £65. The majority of small long-term sorts are ranging within the Blackie bought for under £60, which will come back at 38-42kg in producers to ensure feed is withheld from livestock prior to find an event near you at www.hccmpw.org.uk. Also find a £50-£55 bracket.” the spring, looks the smart money to me. Paying £70 and beyond for transportation, mainly due to concerns it would negatively new fact sheet on extending shelf-life at www.hccmpw.org.uk/ a Suffolk that will weigh 55-60kg could be a dangerous game.” impact the weight of the animal and its carcase value. publications/farming_and_industry_development/. Store lambs Chris Dodds, LAA Executive Secretary, says this overall NEW ���� As expected with a buoyant export demand, the best heavyweight enthusiasm and optimism is mirrored across the country and could RTV���Ci lambs have attracted big premiums and well-fleshed heavyweights, continue into next year. He says: “The stronger trade achieved all & RTV��� which have been in relatively short supply, have grossed well, often season has put some much needed confidence back into the sheep Top chefs celebrate quality mutton in the £85-£90 per head bracket. Stephen Dodsworth of Darlington industry. It is due to several factors. The lower value of UK sterling SPECIAL OFFER ACROSS ENTIRE RTV RANGE Farmers Auction Mart, County Durham, explains: “Our weekly red means exporters are more competitive when selling into the EU The inclusion of mutton at the Master few cull ewes that would otherwise go to market and trying to market always sees the well-fleshed lambs very easy to sell. At least and other world markets. Supply throughout the season has not Chefs of Great Britain’s annual lunch pass them off as a quality product is not the answer. Indeed,

shows the extent of the+ increasing it could do serious damage. If the market is to continue at the moment, the days are gone when the buyer prefers a lean outstripped demand, which has helped to bolster trade. And there * Terms and Conditions apply. Conditions apply to 2nd year See the Kubota website or dealer for details. - see dealer for details. 37kg lamb.” has been reduced volumes of lamb available from alternative sources, popularity of quality mutton in the UK. growing, ‘quality’ must be the watchword. Only good quality Whether it is appearing on a menu ewes should be selected for the purpose, and actively finished Mr Dodsworth advises vendors that leaner lambs are worth such as New Zealand. For further information or to fi nd your local dealer: considerably more sold through the store ring, in some instances “I would anticipate that demand will remain strong and, as long of a village pub, being sold by local with a good covering of both muscle and a modest fat content as much as £5-£10 per head more. He believes this trend looks set as the American election results don’t shake world financial markets butchers or farm www.kubota.co.ukshops or highlighted (classification 2 or 3L). Hanging is essential and 10 days is to continue for the next couple of months at least, but will not last too much, we will see trade remain strong well into 2017.” at grand dinners,Tel: more ����� people ��� are trying ��� it and enjoying the generally considered a minimum.” experience. NSA SHEEP 2013 AD 134x182mm S1.indd 1 Sue McGeever organised the 12/06/2013Master Chefs 15:27 event, Carcase balance which was held at Sheraton Park Lane Hotel in London Mr Kennard continues: “It’s then a question of and featured mutton cannelloni and smoked mutton finding a market. Some producers set up to sell crumble (pictured). She says: “It was wonderful to the consumer, but a wholesale trade can offer to bring mutton to the table and our guests a potentially larger market. Approaching really enjoyed the flavour and textures local restaurants and butchers can 30ft x 90ft of the dish, which combined start things off. However, as with Sheep Polytunnel shoulder of mutton with smoked all meats, carcase balance is one just £2,850 +VAT mutton. It would be good to see secret to success and selling mutton being served in more the whole animal is essential. restaurants around the UK.” A large restaurant order of just Other sizes But if the resurgence of one cut can cause as much of a available quality mutton looks set to problem as selling nothing.” accelerate, will we have the Find useful resources as part 01594 546935 [email protected] supplies to cope? Bob Kennard, of the NSA Make More of Mutton www.agpolytunnels.co.uk NSA Make More of Mutton Manager, initiative at www.nsamutton.org.uk. says: “The problem is that grabbing a

16 SHEEP FARMER NEW BREEDING DECEMBER/JANUARY EID COMBO SHEEP 2016/2017 TAG RANGE 17

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22 SHEEP FARMER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013 23

SFnovdec13p.indd 23 1/11/13 12:27:56 Experts predict a bright future NSA policy work Shearwell For your ear tags & much more for renewable energy industry continues apace - please call or go online today! Major changes at Government level, While Brexit discussions are combined with a sharper-than-expected the clear priority for NSA at reduction in financial support, has the current time, that does SET Tags caused rapid change in the renewable not mean other policy topics energy sector and created questions are being neglected. A whole about the future. host of activity is underway However, experts argue that in all UK nations, led by opportunities for energy projects NSA staff and development remain plentiful for farmers, due to officers. falling equipment installation costs and NSA has been representing innovative solutions. the UK at a Brussels-based Breeding Pairs 79p Lucy Hopwood from bioenergy EU sheep meat reflection consultants NNFCC predicts a little group, alongside UK farming Now more stability in what has been a unions and levy bodies. The EID Slaughter From 59p rapid evolving anaerobic digester and group was set up at the Ask about our FREE Replacement tags biogas sector. She says: “This sector request of EU Agriculture has seen short-term tariff degression Commissioner Phil Hogan (pictures) and concluded in October windows, where subsidy reductions have with the release of a report identifying ways to help a sector resulted in people trying to ‘get in quick’ that is struggling across Europe. NSA was able to raise issues Combi 2000® Mini or Button before it’s enforced. This has caused Falling costs, particularly for wind power, mean renewable energy is still a viable on- around falling lamb consumption, price reporting, carcase Visual mini flag or button tags for sheep. rapid growth, ironically putting more farm investment, experts say. splitting and EID regulations, and will pick these same topics pressure on the market, triggering more can affect cost reductions if plants enough power for the farm, will offset up in ongoing Brexit work too. Ideal for pedigree sheep. Call degression and creating instability. But if are sized appropriate to the situation, heat and electricity bills using a readily NSA will be holding an exhibition in the Houses of for tag we don’t have support, cost reductions rather than tailored to tariff boundaries. available and clean resource.” Parliament in mid-December, providing an opportunity to samples have to happen or we need greater price It’s important to think about optimising Meanwhile, onshore wind costs are present our work on the complementary role of sheep in from premiums for green energy. performance, sourcing the most cost- predicted to fall to £60/MWh by 2020, upland and hill areas to a wide range of ministers and civil “The good news is that the industry effective feedstocks available and as a result of technology advances and a servants. Farming Minister George Eustice has agreed to host 38p 44p looking at where the energy can be best focus on high-wind sites predominantly in a reception as part of the exhibition. Tips for sheep farmers used on farm. The reduction of subsidies Scotland, making it one of the cheapest By Darren Edwards, Fisher German will make people sit back and think, sources of home-grown energy. Adam Basis Payment delays Already got a renewable energy which is important, because strategic Wentworth from Renewable UK says: We have also been corresponding with Mr Eustice, as well Combi E23® EID Button Tag installation? planning is essential.” “The Government needs to show it won’t as other MPs and RPA, about the unacceptable situation with EID button for sheep, with stand in the way of subsidy-free forms of the 2015 Basic Payment Scheme. While Northern Ireland is 1. Consider re-financing to improve your mini flag back. Button rate of return or release capital for Falling costs power, like onshore wind, and compete well into paying 2016 monies, with Scotland implementing a £1.10 reinvestment elsewhere on the farm. Solar has had a rough ride over the head-to-head with options like nuclear loan scheme to get ahead too, it does not hide the fact some only 23mm diameter. 2. Be wary of Valuation Office Agency last 18 months, but still remains and gas.” farmers are still owed the balance of 2015 payments. In (VOA) business rate increases and one of the most versatile sources of England the situation has been made worse by RPA seemingly renewable energy, providing 3.4% of UK Energy storage refusing to acknowledge money is outstanding, despite NSA cash flow implications. It may be NEW Software & possible to challenge the VOA over electricity. Oliver Savory of the Solar A new development to watch out for is knowing some members with common land are still waiting. the rateable value applied to your Trade Association says: “Installation energy storage, says David Jacobmeyer, England and Wales are in the process of changing from a Tablet Bundles project. costs are rapidly falling and the cost Director of Energy Now Expo. He five-mile to 10-mile movement rule. Wales is just starting out 3. Seek professional advice if you’re of maintenance is very low. A modular- explains: “Breakthroughs in energy while Defra says 20% of English sheep keepers have been From £299 and from £799 re-approached about incorporating based solar energy system is economical storage technologies and decentralised contacted so far. For farmers eagerly awaiting the opportunity with our Stick Reader. at all scales and is quickly approaching energy are the most exciting recent to merge holdings, you cannot do anything until you receive a battery storage system into Call for details sites leased to renewable energy grid parity with conventional electricity development in the renewable energy your letter, after which you only have 30 days to take action. companies (i.e. solar parks). production. Globally, solar energy is sector. Interest in land rental from NSA understands an announcement around the England-Wales set to reach 13% of energy generation developers of large battery storage cross-border issue with the CPH changes will be made in Considering an installation? by 2030. It has a bright future in the sites, to store energy and provide grid January. 1. Do not be deterred by the negative UK, as long as it has support from the services, has largely replaced interest press. Attractive returns can Government to transition into a post- from solar farm developers in the last six Responsible antibiotic use Early Lambing? still be achieved under the right subsidy future.” months. It is positive to hear on-farm antibiotic use dropped 10% Warming Boxes circumstances and for carefully Hydropower is an option for land “While it’s clear that subsidy will between 2014 and 2015, with the use of critically important planned projects. with access to a watercourse, suggests reduce, there’s still a strong case for antibiotics remaining low. However, this does not mean we can 2 compartment £182 2. Seek to match the energy supply with Simon Hamlyn of the British Hydropower investing in renewable energy now or be complacent and NSA has been involved in a survey that has 4 compartment £240 your on-farm demand for maximum Association as, even with reduced looking at optimising the value of an highlighted areas for potentially reducing use on sheep farms, Browse our full range online financial benefit. Feed in Tariffs (FiT), it will provide a existing installation.” namely lameness control, abortion prevention and lambing 3. Consider post-Brexit opportunities, guaranteed, index-linked income for 20 More on the latest innovations and shed management – more on pages 38-39. We have also Ad code such as cheaper solar PV kit through years. He says: “A hydro installation will renewable energy polices at the Energy increased our funding to the Responsible Use of Medicines Tel. 01643 841611 the abolition of EU import taxes, and last 50 to 70 years so is an investment Now Expo on 8th-9th February 2017. in Agriculture (RUMA) alliance and support its new www. DEC NSA the creation of viable investments in for future generations. Smaller off-grid Register to attend for free on 01293 farmantibiotics.org educational website. Prices exclude www.shearwell.co.uk VAT & delivery a non-subsidy marketplace. schemes, below 100kW and providing 854405 or www.energynowexpo.co.uk. Don’t miss our Brexit update on page 1.

18 SHEEP FARMER DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 19 has spent the last 20 years ensuring perpetrators of Make your farm your fortress theft have been brought to justice through its forensic technology of permanent traceable liquid markers. It’s with crime prevention technology used on everything from bank Quote NSA1216 notes to copper wiring, and By Laura Williams, NSA now trial work with Harper Crime statistics show a re-emergence of sheep rustling since Adams University is critically 2010, following a decade of historically low levels. There examining the potential also seems to have been a change in the scale of crime, with effectiveness and durability £25 hundreds of sheep now being stolen at once, rather than of SmartWater on sheep and handfuls here and there. lambs, experimenting with Compared to data collected for the previous year, livestock different stock paints and A new Telemetic device theft was the only category to show an increase in 2015, up application sites. captures crime images and Automatic Application 7%, while thefts of tractors, ATVs, equine and rural homes all NSA has been supporting sends them to a mobile phone decreased. this work and the ambitions app. Opting for livestock might be due to increased security of SmartWater to drive down Anti Wool Tangling Horn around farm vehicles deterring thieves, while a correlation sheep rustling by providing between prices and thefts often results in more crime when an effective deterrent that anyone handling invisibly marked lamb prices are high. Claims for sheep rustling made to NFU sheep will be identifiable. Extra Management Options Mutual are £2.9m on their own, so the total cost is much While in this developmental stage, SmartWater has used its higher. Importantly, the health and welfare of stolen sheep is crime fighting expertise to provide these tips for farmers:- (Alternating Colours) Ask if your local police force will help you pinpoint security Twin Tags compromised, and years of hard work through breeding and • Signage at entrances and perimeter fencing should advise weaknesses on your farm. BREEDING TAGS improvement programmes disappear overnight. a potential perpetrator that the farmer is serious about Several police forces offer free advice on rural crime even happens.” security. From prevention, including a site-specific farm survey that combines Security firm Westflight have been involved in Stop That • Small appliances and tools should be held in locked steel 89p the farmer’s knowledge with the experience of the police to find Thief work with West Mercia Police and NFU Mutual. The family- shipping containers. Locks should be accredited high pair the best crime solution or prevention tactic. This has worked owned company also farms in the Welsh hills so knows what is security locks that cannot be breached using a bolt cutter. well in Herefordshire, for example, where 350 farmers using at stake. When looking to install security alarms and systems, • Make sure sheep are identifiable and, where possible, the scheme and displaying Stop That Thief signs have not the company recommends a three-step approach of prevention, padlock field gates and take time to inspect outside fences; reported any further crimes in the last two years. The signs, detection and recovery. It offers these tips:- visit your sheep at different times of the day. displayed on the perimeter of a farm premises where thieves • Careful consideration of what you want to achieve will assist Making sheep identifiable is difficult when eartags can be Alternating Visual + EID are most likely to enter, are only available to farmers who sign you in making a good and effective decision about what type cut out, but NSA member Pip Simpson has attracted a huge up to the scheme, so potential criminals know they are not a amount of media attention with his colourful measures to of security you want, and what actions you will take if it is Strips of 10 Double Pairs dummy. used in anger. protect his flock in Cumbria. Mr Simpson says he has lost • Use several discrete detection devices to alert you that more than 300 sheep to theft in the last four years and Security equipment intruders are on your property, and make it clear they have decided to act by spraying the sheep luminous orange. The FREE REPLACEMENTS If the initial on-farm survey concludes the business may benefit been detected using loud sirens, lights and strobes and spray does not affect the sheep but Mr Simpson hopes it will from equipment, a local approved supplier is contacted to could be challenged and apprehended at any moment. deter thieves or make it very easy to identify his sheep if they Single EID install it for a trial period of three weeks. This might include • Test any security system regularly, at least weekly, and move are stolen. Since doing this, he has gathered his sheep off the Batch Tags a laser beam device that sounds an alarm when broken and it around when circumstances change. It’s only any good if it fell twice, with every single one accounted for. From SLAUGHTER TAGS sends a message to up to four devices registered by the works when you need it. 74p farmer, alerting them to an intruder. Guard Cam devices Telemetricor, a Hampshire-based security company, has Farmer co-operation tag Strips of 20 Single EID Tags also work well, which is both a security light and alarm, with joined the fight against rural crime with a recently launched Mr Simpson has now reached out to NSA to help promote the option to play your own deterring message and record piece of new technology. The high-tech yet easy-to-use system the message to members that sheep theft is a nationwide movement for playback if needed. can operate over difficult terrain and send images back to problem and that farmers must work together to clamp down Paul Crumpton, West Mercia Police Rural Crime Reduction a server to alert the farmer of intruders through a mobile on it. He would like to see a change in law so sheep can TracKing-1 Coordinator, urges farmers to also work together to report phone app, which can be shared immediately with police or a be microchipped, and is currently working with a company suspicions. He says: “Somebody always knows something. If neighbourhood watch group. who develop microchips and GPS trackers. His hope is that £369 you have a gut feeling about something, talk to the police. You the microchip will text the farmer once an individual sheep TracKing-1 Reader may feel like nothing is happening but it is all part of a larger New technology leaves a set radius, providing its location if theft is suspected. with Bluetooth Printer jigsaw puzzle and the more pieces we can get the better. If the Hugo Stride, Telemetricor Director, says: “The system is Currently, this kind of microchip would be too large to put • Simple & User Friendly risk of being caught is high, the reward to the potential thief incredibly versatile and removes the need for constantly under the skin, but the company is working on making it as • Continuous Reading & is low. We need to work towards preventing the crime before it small as possible while maintaining its function. watching out for suspicious activity. During a six-week trial of Tag Counter Functions the product on a 4,000-acre estate, three separate incidents As a victim of crime on many occasions, Mr Simpson offers were prevented because the farmer was alerted to the this advice:- • Create Groups suspicious activity from the comfort of his own home.” Mr • Checking animals regularly is difficult if they are on the fell, • 4,000 IDs Memory Stride offers these tips:- but be vigilant and don’t ignore any unusual or suspicious SAVE • Big Colour Display £49 • Completely preventing unwanted access is practically activity in the surrounding area. • Rechargeable Battery impossible on a large area of land. Accept this but work • If you suspect black market activity, or a neighbour can’t towards minimising it. justify a sudden increase in sheep numbers, report it to • Interface: USB • A good, long-range sentry system, easily moved in response your local farm watch group or to the police. to crime patterns or as part of the day’s rounds, will notify • Use the power of social media. An article about orange 01750 724 110 you promptly of intruders on your property. sheep got two million Facebook hits in one day. • Alter intruders of the effective security measures you have, Dial 101 to contact your local police force for advice or to Strategically placed cameras and laser beams can help deter giving yourself as much notice and evidence as possible. report a crime. Also find out if they have a local rural crime www.roxan.co.uk and detect intruders. But what about technology specifically for sheep? SmartWater co-ordinator.

20 SHEEP FARMER DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 21 History of breeding, showing and judging adds expertise to NSA South West Sale

By Hannah Park, NSA “We used to see between 1,000 and around 15 years, during which time more sales on the back of wins. I decided to Showing and selling livestock is in the 1,100 sheep go through the ring and than 300 animals have been lost. introduce Hampshires to the farm after blood for David Darke. It is a lifelong spent several years on the original site The dairy herd has now replaced I left school, when we started to have passion that has not only earned before moving to where we hold the sale sheep as the primary activity on the difficulty selling our South Devon males, him and his family their fair share of today at Westpoint, the Exeter Livestock farm, after the decision was made four and we began selling breeding stock impressive wins over the years, but Centre, to cut costs.” years ago to sell the sheep. David says from the Hampshires once the flock had has seen him establish himself as a this was disheartening but necessary become established. well-known personality in exhibitor and Inspections for the farm’s future success to focus “In a competitive market it took a bit judging circles, as well as the wider In addition to chairing the committee, resources on one enterprise. of time to build up a reputation with new farming community and NSA. David also does all the pre-sale buyers, but we managed it. We went David’s involvement with NSA spans inspections, alongside Harrold Keas Sheep breeding onto introduce Texel breeding in the more than four decades with his current and other members of the committee, Before this, the farm ran a flock of 200 1970s, as its popularity as a terminal commitment, as NSA South West a process he says is key to the sales ewes, including 120 pedigree South sire began to grow at that time.” Regional Ram Sale Chairman, beginning continued success. “I’m sure I’ve been Devon ewes, a breed which has since With a heavy focus on showing, David in 1988 when he joined the original given the nickname Dentist Darke,” he been amalgamated with the Devon and explains how lambing dates moved founding committee. Fondly recalling its jokes. “But as far as I’m concerned Cornwall Longwool. There were also earlier and earlier each year, eventually beginnings, David says: “I remember the there are no in-betweens, a ram is either 80 Hampshire Downs, which were later settling at 1st January. He continues: day. A few of just us got chatting and correct or not. We’ve kept up a high replaced by Texels. “The shift from the original outdoor the next thing we knew we’d formed a standard so it’s encouraging that buyers David explains: “My grandfather system my grandfather established committee. We had our first sale in 1988 and sellers recognise established the flock of South Devons to an indoor one was essential to in Whipton, Devon, where the Devon that and come back Fact File in 1908, originally to produce and minimise losses, especially during the County Showground used to be. year after year. • Long-term involvement for David sell breeding stock, through private harsh winters in the 1950s and 1960s. “The sale has in NSA, including NSA South West sales mainly, but some at shows and Continued on page 24 grown in size in Regional Chairman (1992-1995), the last few years, event organiser and a former introducing the member of what was the NSA David’s hard Above: David is chairman for the thriving option to enter Council. He is the current NSA work is not limited NSA South West Region Ram Sale. crossbred rams in South West Region Ram Sale to the sale of 2015 and females Chairman. course. It is evident acres) with several fields bordering in 2016, alongside • David has travelled all over the UK on the home farm the cliff-edge of the South Devon official breed society and overseas showing and judging. too, South Hurish coastline. Just over half of the ground females which Destinations include Northern and at Kingsbridge, is owned with the other half rented on a have always been Southern Ireland, France, Africa and Devon, where permanent basis. It is managed in three at the sale. We’ll New Zealand. his family began and four-year grass leys with around be continuing with • The 450-cow Friesian dairy herd is farming in 1931. 200ha (500 acres) of silage cut three that and see how it now the primary enterprise on the Originally tenanted times annually for home use. progresses.” farm, although David still takes an by his grandfather, David also active interest in the sheep sector. David bought the Milking herd mentions the farm in 1975. It is The milking stock is kept pure to breed introduction of the SureSheep scheme now managed in partnership between replacements, by natural mating or AI, this year, which vendors can opt David, wife Jill, daughter-in-law Sue and with some heifers put to Aberdeen-Angus into. The scheme aims to provide an grandson Tom. With three full-time staff bulls. Crossbred calves and Friesian bull additional guarantee to buyers that rams members to share the work, Tom has calves are sold at a few weeks old. This are healthy and prepared for work, and taken on the day-to-day running of the is managed in the face of an ongoing was embraced by the committee to try farm’s 450-head Friesian dairy herd. TB challenge, with the farm being under David Darke. and attract more purchasers. The farm is spread over 285ha (700 movement restrictions on and off for The Friesian dairy herd is now the primary enterprise at South Hurish.

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22 SHEEP FARMER DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 23 The farm’s proximity to the sea Nairobi, Kenya, and from there a number holds, David makes no secret of his also meant salt burn could be a real of times in New Zealand, including concern for the industry as a whole on problem.” the Centenary All Breeds Show 1985 the back of the recent Brexit decision. Minimising costs is top priority David talks fondly about how his in Christchurch. That was quite an He says: “The falling value of the passion for showing and, later, judging honour, as was being asked to judge pound has clearly done wonders for By Alan Stone, Old Mill Accountants has taken him to shows and sales all the supreme champion at what was the lamb exports and made considerable Given the favourable currency over the world. As well as all parts of Royal Smithfield and Royal Agricultural difference in helping keep a much exchange rates for export at present, mainland UK and Northern Ireland, he Society Show here in the UK. I’ve more level trade. Consistency is what and the related demand for British was invited to the Republic of Ireland, also judged at the Royal Welsh, Great producers are after, but I think we are lamb, you could relax and believe that happy days are here. France, Africa and New Zealand, forming Yorkshire and Three Counties. going to see more volatility for most of However it is very important that you do not take your eyes what he describes as some of his “Judging is what started Jill and I off our commodities in the future, because off the ball. In agriculture in general and sheep farming in fondest memories along the way. travelling abroad really. We’ve seen and we’ll need to negotiate a lot more with particular, what goes around usually comes around sooner “I was first asked to judge overseas experienced so many things in other the world market and, as a result, will be than you would like. Global currencies and sterling are rather in 1979,” says David. “I judged the countries we wouldn’t have had the subject to world fluctuations. volatile at the moment. Hampshire Downs at the Royal Show in chance to otherwise. I always consider Whatever the state of the market, there is always a need it an honour to be asked, whether it’s a Farming future to focus on costs. Don’t wait to be challenged by changes in one-day local show or one of the large “Farming and the rural communities market conditions. Be proactive and make the most of current Focus on costs, even when income is not as difficult as well-known nationals.” can’t expect to be looked after like opportunities by running an efficient business now to maximise sometimes. Europe has looked after us and I returns during beneficial trading conditions. This will also mean Show success certainly can’t see the consumer paying you are efficient for when times might be more challenging. available to make that easier. At Old Mill we see cloud It’s his own success in the show the real market price for the cost of accounting software as an attractive option, recommending a ring David credits for getting these British farmers’ production, because Best resource use system that enables you to see your financial performance in opportunities, referring mostly to his they’ve not been used to doing that.” Usually this is not a case of seeking a cheaper deal for real time and does not require time-consuming data input. We former flock of Devon and Cornwall In terms of his own farm business, purchases but making sure you make best use of the are also watching an Irish software business that is developing Longwools when listing his numerous David explains how it is still reeling from resources available to you and implementing the latest a suite of products to help monitor inputs, outputs and even titles won at agricultural shows across the impact of the low milk price. “We are thinking. In order to stay ahead in volatile markets it benchmarking for various aspects of farming. There are South West England, including the Royal looking to downsize,” he says. “We’ll be is important to consider farming practise and if the increasingly fewer excuses for remaining in the dark about how Bath and West, Devon County and Royal reducing cow numbers by another 100 implementation of different methods might suit you. For you are performing. Cornwall. The pinnacle was arguably in 2017, to cut production and labour example, would moving to an outdoor lambing or weaning Whatever the market situation, a focus on costs will help winning supreme champion at the former costs. I think, and certainly hope, we lambs to sell early help your business? you ensure your business is robust. Attention to costs now Royal Show in 1985 with a Devon and have reached the bottom though. There Cost analysis and monitoring across the business is will help proof your business against times when the situation Home-bred Friesian heifers are kept as Cornwall two-shear ram. seems to be a bit more optimism in the important and there is now a whole raft of software options turns more challenging. replacements. When asked about what the future marketplace now.”

Premier Sheep & Premier Lamb Drench EPC rules apply to farm property If you let farm property, including tied Andrew Fallows of Carter Jonas in York Organically chelated trace element vitamin properties or those for workers on an says: “This has the potential to create assured short-term let, you need to be headaches for some landowners if they supplements aware of forthcoming changes to rules aren’t properly prepared. After April 2018 around energy. they won’t be able to let out a house All properties re-let from 1st April with a rating lower than E unless they 2018 must have an Energy Performance have ‘made use of all available funding Certificate (EPC) with an E rating or or subsidy to make all reasonable better, with the same rule applying to improvements’.” existing tenancies from 2020, even if they are in continual occupancy with the Assessments same tenant. He says landlords should start by getting assessments done: “Audits cost around Energy Performance £40 each and will pinpoint the efficiency Energy efficiency ratings run from A to G. issues that need addressing. Low cost Let properties will require E or above. Certificates measures include lighting and roof EPCs are needed whenever a domestic insulation, and cavity wall insulation is Mortgage Corporation (AMC) says property is built, sold or rented. They also fairly cheap. Expenses start rising farms and estate owners can borrow contain information about a property’s when you are looking at new thermostats to renovate if they want to avoid hitting energy use and typical energy costs, and boilers, heating systems, double cashflow. plus recommendations about how to glazing, wall cladding or renewable He says: “The cost to upgrade reduce energy use and save money. technologies.” properties is usually £25,000 to Despite being introduced under an Mr Fallows adds that many £100,000, so it is best to look for a EU directive, they are widely expected improvements do attract grant funding standard loan that can be drawn down to continue for the foreseeable future. but the application process can be time- in phased tranches. It’s also wise to Not all mineral drenches are the same EPCs give efficiency ratings from A consuming if a number of properties are identify a longer term repayment loan Contact Jonathan Guy (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and involved. “The most important point is to that can fit in with the returns from the T : 01886 880482 are valid for 10 years. plan ahead so you aren’t left with empty property. Usually the EPC improvements M : 07866 607466 Details at www.planningportal. properties and a backlog of work once are carried out alongside some E : [email protected] gov.uk/buildingregulations/ W : www.jganimalhealth.com the regulations come in,” he says. upgrading, and both can result in an greenerbuildings/epc. Adrian Cawood from the Agricultural uplift in rental value and yield.”

24 SHEEP FARMER DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 25 Forage analysis is the first step in getting pre-lambing nutrition right

By Nerys Wright, AHDB Beef & Lamb Maximising ewe intakes from forage (grass or conserved feed) is key to keeping supplement costs and, therefore, variable costs down. However, this will depend largely on the quality and quantity of forage available. Many producers will have been able to produce adequate amounts of conserved forage this year, but the quality will vary depending on when it was cut. This variability will make forage sampling even more important. Recent trial work measuring the dry matter intakes of ewes in late pregnancy found they consumed more than 2% of Forage analysis should underpin decisions about concentrate purchases. their liveweight on a range of forages • Shop around for the best price. Ask but it should come from the forage (grass silage, lucerne, red clover and for quotes and specifications from two not the compound feed. urea-treated whole-crop wheat). While it or three companies. Energy and protein are crucial would be difficult to practically calculate • Be prepared to pay for the better components of a ewe’s diet. Feeding the daily intake of each individual ewe ingredients. Cheap is not always best. sufficient levels of protein in late on every farm, ensuring ewes have • Analyse the specification in detail, pregnancy and lactation not only has adequate access to forage at all times benefits for the ewe and her growing will help optimise intake of energy and especially when comparing two feeds that may vary by £15/tonne. lambs for that production year, but protein from forag. And analysis of the also has an impact on their future • Look at the ingredients, especially forages determine the metabolisable performance and longevity. Under- the protein sources. The ingredients energy (ME) and crude protein (CP) will feeding protein has been linked to poor determine the protein percentage of underpin the need for supplementation. milk production and higher mastitis the overall compound. For example, A forage analysis report can look incidence, which contributes to higher an 18% protein compound containing daunting and difficult to interpret but culling rates. This is especially true for 10% soya would be a higher-quality for sheep there are a few key results to ewes rearing their first lambs, as ewes feed than a 20% protein feed where utilise – see table. only develop mammary tissue when the main ingredient is urea Once analysis has taken place and pregnant for the first time. a decision to supplementary feed • Look at the fibre level, as fibre is has been made, there are several low in energy and a high content will Shearlings factors to consider when looking to buy reduce the energy density of the diet. The sheep key performance indicator concentrates to fill the forage gap:- It is important for ewes to eat fibre, (KPI) project, funded by AHDB Beef & Interpreting a forage analysis report Lamb, has identified that the age group Dry matter (DM) The measure of what is not water. Pregnant ewes have restricted of ewes that contribute the highest space and wet forage will fill them up with water, making it harder number of light lambs at eight weeks for them to eat the amount of energy needed. of age (defined as 17kg or lighter when flock average is 20kg) are shearling Digestibility (or D value) How quickly the rumen will digest the feed. The higher the ewes lambing for the first time. Further D value the more digestible it is, meaning it will be digested quicker and enable ewes to eat more each day. research is required but the evidence suggests that careful feeding of young Metabolisable energy (ME) The amount of energy in the feed that the rumen bugs can ewes in late pregnancy and lactation utilise. The higher the ME the better energy source the feed is. should be considered to improve Crude protein (CP) Total protein content of a food source as determined by its eight-week weights of the lambs from nitrogen content. This does not differentiate between the shearling ewes. different types of protein in sheep feed. These is rumen AHDB Beef & Lamb is currently degradable protein (protein that is broken down and utilised by working on an updated version of the the rumen bugs to produce microbial protein) and digestible 1983 Feeding the Ewe manual. The undegradable protein (protein that passes through the rumen new document will be available at www. and is digested and absorbed in the intestines). The latter is mostly used for milk production and energy in late pregnancy. beefandlamb.ahdb.org.uk, where you can also download manuals on ‘Managing pH (for silage) Measure of acidity and an indicator of the fermentation ewes for better returns’, ‘Improving ewe process. Poor fermentation will lead to unfavourable smells that nutrition for better returns’ and ‘Breeding discourage the ewe from eating as much. from ewe lambs’.

26 SHEEP FARMER

Crystalyx EHE A4+bleed Dec15.indd 1 21/12/2015 16:17 Target body condition score for ewes:- Condition scoring and biochemistry Hill ewes Upland ewes Lowland ewes Getting the most At weaning 2 2 2.5 At tupping 2.5 3 3.5 Mid-pregnancy 2 2.5 3 from scanning for metabolic monitoring of females At lambing 2 2.5 3 Like many other activities carried out on an annual basis, a underestimation of the protein content of the diet. Albumin By Victoria diagram. These are not as efficient an certain amount of complacency and lack of understanding levels may also be reduced in sick animals or those Fisher, Farm energy source as glucose and are poorly of the basics can lead to pregnancy scanning being carried suffering from kidney disease, parasite infestations or First Veterinary utilised by thebrain. This results in out in far from ideal conditions. Johne’s. Services, Abergavenny clinical signs including isolation, lethargy, As one scanner says: “The skill of the scanning • Urea is an indicator of short-term protein metabolism and The major pitfall around lambing time is inappetence, blindness, ‘stargazing’, operator, even those with years of experience, can easily energy metabolism. Low levels of urea can indicate there is often inappropriate nutrition, which can teeth grinding, muscle tremor, head- be compromised. A skilled operator will work around a shortage of ERDP in the diet and, in some instances, can have many disastrous consequences pressing and recumbancy. some aspects, but be aware that it can slow them up – or also indicate a lack of energy in the diet. to ewe welfare, lamb survivability and Over-fat ewes at lambing also suffer compromise accuracy from less experienced scanners. Work Sampling should ideally be done four to six weeks prior to the overall profitability. twin lamb disease, as although they with your scanner to get the best result for your flock and, as expected lambing date, as this is when the ewes metabolic Poor nutrition can be the result of have a good store of energy as fat, they these are the opinions of a few operators, find out just what requirements are increasing, but still allows enough time for either underfeeding or overfeeding often have a poorer appetite. This fat your own scanning operator’s protocols are by asking them.” the diet to be adjusted. Any abnormalities at this stage will and can lead to problems such as twin is broken down so rapidly the liver is • Although there are small differences between scanners, often be mild, but action needs to be taken before demands lamb disease (pregnancy toxaemia), unable to cope and this can cause liver the consensus is to scan at 80-90 days into gestation. rapidly increase. If done too far in advance of lambing there is hypocalcaemia, poor birth weights, poor damage. The simplest way to achieve this is to book early, unlikely to be an increase in requirement and results are often colostrum quality and yield, and poor In addition to energy, protein is particularly if you lamb at the peak time of late-March/ normal. Ewes should be sampled at least four hours after lamb vigour. required in the diet for the immune early-April. concentrate feeding, as this can alter the results. Body condition scoring (BCS) is a vital system, foetal growth, colostrum/milk • During the months prior to scanning, do not mark in tool that should be used throughout the yield and, in particular, colostrum quality; the area on the fleece that gets marked at scanning. year to monitor fat over the loin, but is immunoglobulins are the proteins in the Otherwise this leads to ‘confusion marks’. particularly useful at weaning, tupping, colostrum that protect the lamb from • Plan in advance to ensure you have sufficient labour on mid-pregnancy and lambing – see table. Metabolic testing six weeks before infection. Supplying elevated protein scanning day to do the job as efficiently as possible. Checking BCS in mid-pregnancy is vital, lambing gives time to make adjustments. levels in the ewe around lambing has • Plan to have the sheep as empty as possible, as this as this allows adequate time to correct also been linked with reduced worm egg makes a real difference to the person holding the probe. nutrition before the ewe reaches the last through most feed companies, as there output and decreased incidence of acute Grass, hay and straw are just about workable, as they are trimester of pregnancy. A ewe that is a is a wide variation in the protein and mastitis post lambing. high fibre and less compacted, but silage and roots make little under-condition may be given a little energy levels between forages. From scanning difficult without some fasting. extra feed to gain condition, while a ewe this data you can calculate how much Protein types • Please do not use scanning as an occasion to carry out that is over condition can be carefully concentrate will be needed to meet There are different sources of protein other tasks, as this can impact the job in hand. managed to limit weight gain; reducing energy and protein requirements. in ruminant nutrition. Effective rumen • There are many marking options, but the best one will be BCS at this stage can be tricky. Energy is the most common problem degradable protein (ERDP), such as the one the operator uses. Those operators that do their in sheep diets, either too much or not grass, urea and beans, is used by the own marking have less of a problem, but if you supply Nutrition enough. For example, a twin-bearing microbes in the rumen to make microbial someone make certain they concentrate and can react The metabolic requirement of the ewe Mule ewe requires 11.5MJ of energy crude protein (MCP). Throughout the Nutrition affects colostrum and milk quantity and quality. quickly to instructions. rises rapidly in the last eight weeks seven weeks prior to lambing, rising to rest of the productive year this form of The aim is to sample a group of ewes that represent the of pregnancy, as 70% of foetal growth 18.3MJ one week before she lambs. A protein is adequate, and is often also • Drafting afterwards is not good if it requires someone majority of the flock and are expected to lamb the earliest. occurs at this time. A suitable diet is similar single-bearing ewe requires 10MJ adequate for single bearing ewes, but to be stood in front, as it puts sheep off exiting. Some Sample five or six ewes per group if the flock has been required to meet this increase in energy and 14.4MJ respectively. Feeding both is insufficient for ewes carrying multiple operators operate their own system, which does work. scanned, or at least 10 if not scanned. Avoid sampling ewes and protein demand, but a major limiting ewes the same diet is likely to result in lambs. These ewes often require a • Endeavour to receive all information from the scanner, which are obviously poorer or sick, as their results are likely to factor is the volume of food the ewe is the single-bearing ewe gaining condition, source of digestible undegradable not just numbers. Information about earlies, lates and be skewed and not represent the flock, although it may be a physically able to consume due to the a higher lamb birthweight and therefore protein (DUP), such as soya, that reabsorptions in their marking system are important for good idea to check these animals on an individual basis. increasing womb size taking up space in a more difficult lambing. bypasses the rumen and goes directly to flock management. Your vet will always be happy to speak to you about her abdomen. As a rule of thumb for dry the intestines for digestion. • Check with your scanner what they will need for biosecurity managing your ewes in the run up to lambing, including matter intake, a pregnant ewe can eat Energy lack Metabolic profiling is blood sampling a management before they move on to their next customer. metabolic profiling and body condition scoring. approximately 2.2% of her bodyweight. Twin lamb disease is one of the most group of ewes in the run up to pregnancy An ideal diet should consist of good common problems in the heavily to monitor energy and protein. This is a quality forage supplemented with as pregnant ewe. This is where the useful early warning system to indicate

Premium Maedi Visna – A Hidden Menace Sheep & Goat little concentrate feed as possible. It is energy demands of the ewe are not if there are any shortfalls in the diet that Health Schemes therefore a good idea to get your forage met by the diet provided, resulting in need to be addressed. Metabolic profiles OFFER A MV analysed, a service that is available an overproduction of ketones – see look at three parameters, which need • Thin ewes diagnostic test package on 12 to be interpreted carefully and can be • Drop in milk yield thinner ewes Lab Charge added to with calcium and magnesium • Increased mortality rates £37 plus VAT Factors leading to twin lamb disease (plus visit & checks where concerns exist. • Lambs not thriving sampling charge). Poor diet Insufficient Less Low blood glucose Send in sample with • Ketones (HB) are an indicator of • Increased mastitis MV diagnostic test production glucose (hypoglycaemia) submission form. energy metabolism – see diagram • Reduced fertility Over-fat of propionic made Do You Suspect a Problem? Is it MV? Insufficient acid – and even mild elevations can be feed intake detected, indicating the ration needs • Estimated loss of £30-50,000 in a 1500 ewe flock Triggers fat • MV - hard to spot and could devastate flock productivity Bad to be altered to prevent twin lamb breakdown and Please send samples to SAC Consulting Veterinary Services weather/ disease closer to lambing. Greycrook, St Boswells, Roxburghshire, TD6 0EQ Ketosis/ metabolism of poor access • Albumin is an indicator of long-term twin lamb Production Excess of fatty acids and For further information call: 01835822456 to feed protein metabolism. Low levels [email protected] Some forward-planning can make life easier for your scanner disease of ketones acetyl CoA glycerol 286668 DMN 23.03.16 can indicate poor feed quality or SAC is a charity registered in Scotland No. SC003712 and for you. 28 SHEEP FARMER DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 ? 29 Armoury of options puts disease prevention at top of priority list

By Beth Wells, Moredun Prevention is better than cure. It may be an overused statement but it is definitely true when it comes to endemic livestock diseases, which provide the greatest constraint to improving livestock production efficiency. However, with a strong armoury at our disposal in terms of diagnostics, vaccines and management strategies, we have never been better placed to put disease prevention at the top of our priorities for improving efficiency. Good farm biosecurity is at the heart of disease prevention and, in looking at ways of improving this, there is a ‘big five’ to consider. 1. Livestock movement: This is the most likely route for introducing disease. Run closed herds and flocks, or buy from accredited schemes or trusted sources if at all possible. 2. Quarantine: Always keep introduced animals isolated. Ensure best practice quarantine conditions and check quarantine periods for key diseases. Diagnostic, vaccines and management strategies all aid 3. Diagnostic tests and preventative vaccines: Use these disease prevention. whenever recommended, as knowing disease status is important and prevention is better than cure. If any of these signs are in evidence, a diagnosis must be 4. Hygiene: Practice good hygiene including the use of obtained. effective disinfectants. Provision of good environmental It is important to stress that the longest quarantine time conditions will lead to reduced risk of infection. for all the diseases you are trying to prevent is used so, for 5. Health plans: Improve disease prevention and control by example, if liver fluke was under consideration as well as developing flock and herd health plans in consultation with sheep scab, the quarantine time would be increased to three your vet. Use and update them regularly. weeks. And it is safe to say that incoming animals should The next step is then to look at the diseases you want to target never be mixed with the resident flock without considering the for your particular flock or herd. A useful tool in doing this is possible disease risks, even if you are a ram short. the recently produced Moredun biosecurity handbook on the key diseases affecting UK livestock, which was put together by Health planning 17 disease experts from Moredun and beyond. When multiple diseases are being considered, health plans are It is accompanied by a useful chart (pictured) that can be especially useful for monitoring the disease control strategies used as a quick reference when information is required on, for that have been put in place, as well as providing a reminder of example, sheep scab when new tups have been brought into when testing or prophylactic treatments and vaccines are due, the farm. At a glance it is clear from the poster that scab is a providing accurate and timely application. notifiable disease in Scotland and has a quarantine period of Improvements in farm biosecurity need not be complicated at least two weeks, with diagnostics, treatments, disinfectants and a checklist of more straightforward wins is a good way and best practice guidelines available. forward, such as focussing on farm boundaries including fencing, farm entry and exit points and farm buildings. At Handbook and poster the entrance to all farm buildings, disinfection footbaths are This information is expanded in the handbook where an advisable and are essential at the entrance of the quarantine explanation of how Psoroptes mites are transmitted and facilities, along with a change in overclothes. Remembering why all incoming animals must be quarantined, even if they that quarantined animals must be fed and checked last. are returning wintering hoggs or summer grazed animals. Another way forward is to target one or two diseases and The current advice is to treat every incoming sheep with an give 100% effort into best practice biosecurity for these. This approved product is a better approach than having a stab at all the key diseases and quarantine and not doing any one thoroughly, as this approach will end in isolated from the failure and disappointment. main flock for at As well as the longer term benefits of good farm biosecurity, least two weeks. there are definite economic advantages to checking, testing During this time, and, if necessary, treating any animals in quarantine. This the quarantined is because any required treatments are restricted to a small animals should be group rather than the whole flock or herd. ® ® observed carefully As NSA members are automatically Moredun associate Combinex Oral Suspension contains 3.75% w/v levamisole hydrochloride and 5% w/v triclabendazole. Fasimec Duo 50 mg/ml + 1 mg/ml Oral Suspension for Sheep contains 50 mg/ml triclabendazole and 1 mg/ml ivermectin. Fasinex® 5% Oral Suspension contains 5% w/v triclabendazole. Flukiver 5% w/v oral for any signs of members too, the biosecurity handbook and poster was Suspension contains 50mg/ml closantel. Supaverm Oral Suspension contains 5% w/v closantel and 7.5% w/v mebendazole. Rycoben® SC for Sheep contains scratching, rubbing, distributed with the August/September edition of Sheep Farmer 2.5% w/v albendazole oxide (ricobendazole), 1.8% w/v cobalt sulphate and 0.097% w/v sodium selenate. Legal category: POM-VPS The Moredun biosecurity handbook is nibbling, wool loss magazine. Contact Moredun for an additional copy on 01314 For further information contact Elanco Animal Health on +44 (0)1256 353131 or write to Elanco Animal Health, Lilly House, Priestley Road, Basingstoke, accompanied by a quick-reference poster. and deranged wool. 455111 or [email protected]. Hampshire, RG24 9NL. Combinex®, Fasimec® Duo, Fasinex®, Flukiver®, Supaverm® and Rycoben® are trade marks owned by or licensed to Eli Lilly and Company, its affiliates or subsidiaries. Use Medicines Responsibly (www.noah.co.uk/responsible) Advice should be sought from the prescriber prior to use. UKSHPFAS00003a rdp20129 30 SHEEP FARMER

20129 Liver Fluke Ad 210x297.indd 1 16/08/2016 10:49 “Lambs need shelter from draughts and to have deep straw bedding to keep Artificial rearing tips Lamb price provides additional them clean and warm,” she says, adding By Gill Dickson, Pyon Products that pens should be well drained to 1. Source a suitable lamb milk powder. ensure good hygiene levels. Calf milk powder is cheaper but “Place teats at 12-15 inches (30- contains too much copper for lambs. incentive to rear surplus lambs 38cm) from the ground, and fix the 2. Weigh the powder and mix according suckler plates with a max of 10 lambs to the manufacturer’s instructions. Predictions that lamb prices could remain strong next year per teat,” Mrs Dickson says. “Place a 3. Leave the lamb on the ewe for 24 should be an added incentive to do the best by surplus lambs piece of weldmesh behind the teats so hours if possible, to get sufficient this spring, says Volac Technical Specialist Ian Watson. the lambs can’t pull the pipes into the colostrum. Alternatively, feed fresh “It’s always worth rearing as many lambs as you can, but pen. ewe colostrum by teated bottle or it could really pay next year,” he says. “Our advice is to plan pipe during the first six hours of ahead and re-examine current practices in order to rear as Weaning life, or defrosted ewe’s colostrum many surplus lambs as possible. Every sheep producer has to “There is no need to feed hay, as it or powdered colostrum. Aim for four Keeping pipes behind a wire mesh stops cope with surplus lambs to a certain extent, but when prices will stop them from eating lamb creep feeds of 50ml/kg liveweight in the lambs chewing them and pulling them are weak the motivation to be as productive as possible just and give them a pot belly. The starch first 24hrs. into the pen. isn’t there. It should be now.” in the lamb creep is essential to 4. Leave the lamb under a heat lamp or warming box, to get warm and In addition to rearing orphans, Mr Watson recommends growth rates because there is no limit stimulate development of the rumen and hungry. removing any third and fourth lambs from their mothers to help to how much or when the lambs can encourage cudding. Make sure there is a 5. Mix warm milk powder and introduce boost lamb survival rates and performance. When deciding drink. Producers also say they see fewer very small amount of fresh concentrate the lamb to the teated bottle. When which lamb to remove from a triplet-bearing ewe, he advises digestive upsets. given each day, with straw and fresh sucking keenly, transfer to an ad lib removing either the smallest or the largest one to leave a “Most significantly, users report a water. Typical lambs on artificial rearing teat bar. balanced pair. decent margin over lifetime feed of £15- systems use 10-12.5kg of milk powder 6. After six hours, check the lamb’s £25 per lamb. This margin could be even and 75-100kg of creep per head.” belly is full or lead him up to the teat Colostrum intake healthier in 2017 if lamb prices and Mr Watson recommends a creep feed Ensure lambs are in a draft-free pen with clean, dry bedding. again. “Whichever lamb is chosen it must be sucking well, been with demand remains buoyant.” with 18% crude protein, saying lambs 7. Clean teats and lines and refresh the its mother for 24 hours after birth and have received a good automatic lamb milk feeders for the 2016 lambing season, he Mr Watson stresses that machines should be weaned abruptly at no less barrel once per day, whether you’re supply of colostrum, particularly in the first six hours of life,” highlights the advantages over traditional restricted feeding are no substitute for good husbandry, a than five weeks of age when they are feeding milk cold or warm. he says. with a bottle or teated bucket. message that is echoed by Gill Dickson, eating an average of 0.25kg of creep a 8. Never let the teat run dry or mix Mr Watson claims more sheep farmers are becoming “Farmers are undoubtedly attracted by the labour-saving Pyon Products Youngstock Specialist. day over three days. as accepting as professional calf rearers about the latest benefits and the fact machine-rearing frees up time to focus stale milk with new milk. on other important jobs,” he says. “But they also report faster technology available. Quoting a 135% increase in sales of Product news Gem-like rodenticides rolls. Each roll has 216 patches and is Productive Lodi UK is leading its new range of supplied in boxes of 36. rodenticides with Sapphire Grain, a bait The company has also released Healthy that contains whole and cut wheat and figures for the first time showing Profi table will kill in a single feed. It is available in reduced dry matter losses in silage Ewbol 3kg, 5kg and 20kg mixed grain packs, clamps sealed with an oxygen barrier as well as 50g sachets in film rather than a standard 5kg packs. polyethylene sheet. The making them all legally compliant with Grow your future now There is also Sapphire work carried out at the INRA new regulations. This prompted a look Paste (pictured), formulated Research Centre in France at other aspects of the design and from premium grade cereals compared two identical resulted in a number of additions and The BENEFITS of feeding ForFarmers Ewbol range: mulched and mixed with clamps of perennial ryegrass new features. As well as introducing peanut butter oils, making it silage. The one sealed with the Series 8 and Series 12, all the High energy Quality protein attractive to rodents even in an oxygen barrier showed Series 10 models now come with a Reduce twin lamb Improve lamb survival the most difficult environments, lower dry matter losses (7% new winch bridge position, new drawbar disease & vigour again killing in a single feed. versus 15.2%), lower reductions in design and increased hurdle capacity. The ‘gems’ range is completed butyric acid levels (17.2% v 7.35%) and More on 01264 810665 or www. with bromadiolone-based Jade baits, higher acetic levels (15.9% v 6.26%). rappamobileyards.co.uk. available in grain, block, paste and More at www.silostop.com. cluster grain form and designed to be Lightweight wellies Improve lamb growth rates Increase fibre digestibility highly palatable, and also difenacoum- Rappa revamp Protecto has adding a new Challenger based Ruby baits, in block and paste Following an overhaul of its range of welly to its Border range, claiming they form with an ‘irresistible’ combination mobile handling equipment, Rappa is will keep feet warm down to temperature 0845 722 8853 of aniseed and peanut oils. More on now selling five different systems. of -30°C despite being lightweight. www.forfarmers.co.uk 01384 404242 or www.lodi-uk.com. Its existing three mid-range systems, The company says that even the @ForFarmersUK the Series 10 Compact, Standard and full safety version, with steel top cap, Oxygen barriers Super, are now complemented at either is lighter than many non-safety boots. The range of products available from end by a Series 8 Buggy for flocks of up The ability of the polyurethane boots Silostop has been extended with a to 70 sheep and a Series 12 Super for to resist corrosion from chemicals new vinyl patch to repair tears in silage flocks of more than 500 head. means they could also last three times film. The 10cm by 15cm (4x6”) patch The company says it reviewed its longer than conventional PVC rubber has a strong solvent adhesive to keep range as part of the process to gain boots. More on 01948 667676 or www. it in place and is supplied in easy-tear Type Approval status for its UK trailers, dairyspares.com.

32 SHEEP FARMER DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 33 Vaccination ahead of key risk periods Now with added choline for lamb vigour and PINE SHAVINGS reduces the threat of pasteurellosis stronger lambs!

By Amanda Carson, Animal and Plant Health Agency to multiply and spread through the body. While one of the classic BEAT INFECTION In September this year, post-mortem centres in England, Wales signs of bacteria spread, via the bloodstream, can be seen and Scotland reported cases of systemic Bibersteinia trehalosi at post mortem examination as haemorrhages in the carcase WITHOUT infection in sheep, also known as systemic pasteurellosis. (pictured), diagnostic confirmation of the disease requires culture Typically six to nine-month-old lambs are affected, with disease of the bacterium from multiple body sites. ANTIBIOTICS outbreaks usually occurring between October and December. However, it can also be seen in adult animals. Immune suppression Bibersteinia trehalosi is a bacteria found in the tonsils and In one case, seven lambs aged six months died from a group that throat of healthy animals. When animals become stressed, for had received a full vaccination course that included pasteurella, example due to poor nutrition or excessive worm burdens, the and had been wormed two weeks earlier. However, post mortem immune system can become supressed and allow these bacteria found a worm egg count of 9,450 trichostrongyle-type eggs per gram in one of the lambs, which was considered to be a likely trigger-factor for systemic pasteurellosis and also suggested anthelmintic resistance. Relevant advice was provided, including to reassess worming protocols on the farm. In another case three adult rams, all in good condition, died suddenly. The rams had been vaccinated, wormed and dipped a week earlier. In this case it is possible additional handling or other environmental or management changes, such as introducing new rams to a group, contributed to stress that led to the development of the disease. Control of pasteurellosis is best achieved by vaccination. Dozens of sheep farmers who now use our Farmers and their vets should work together to plan and complete STOCKMAX pine shavings in their lambing vaccination against pasteurellosis before the likely period of pens tell us that it reduces their losses from risk, so before the advent of cold weather or other predictable infection and their need for antibiotics. stressors. Vaccines don’t cover all strains of pasteurella so it is important that a proper diagnosis is made, and if vaccine Haemorrhages in the chest wall and heart caused by failure is still suspected this should be reported to the Veterinary We think this is down to the pasteurellosis. Medicines Directorate via your vet. power of the pine we use to BE PREPARED FOR LAMBING BUY A BUCKET BURSTING WITH VITALITY make STOCKMAX. Science oxyclozanide poisoning has proved that pine really Helps prevent twin lamb disease was suspected due to the does kill harmful bacteria More from APHA observed clinical signs and Enriched with fish oil, Sel-Plex (selenium), such as E.Coli, and our similar cases seen by APHA mannans and cobalt/B12 customers confirm that it works in practice. Liver fluke Veterinary Investigation Both SCOPS and NADIS are warning farmers to be on their guard Centres and SAC Disease Optimises performance from forage with key So before you start lambing this year, please against liver fluke this autumn, due to this year’s mild winter and Surveillance Centres. minerals, trace elements and vitamins unique wet summer. Combination contact us to find out more, and save yourself to the Energyze range Planning liver fluke treatments can be difficult, especially for oxyclozanide and lambs, time, costs, labour – farms that have suspected resistance to triclabendazole, the levamisole products Created for strong embryo production, and antibiotics. drug that is most effective against the immature stages of the require frequent mixing improved colostrum and improved lamb parasite. To help respond to the liver fluke threat this autumn, during dosing, to prevent vitality, thriftiness and survival find specific information on how to assess the fluke risk of a possible settling out of the U R A L T farm or pastures within a farm at www.scops.org.uk, as well as suspension. Weighing of The swollen face of a ewe lamb with

A quarantine recommendations for incoming stock and details of stock prior to treatment is suspected oxyclozanide poisoning. E

N

the effectiveness of different flukicidal drugs against different PINE also essential to prevent Speak to your local Harbro specialist or N

H stages of the parasite. both overdosing (which can be fatal) and under-dosing (which is a E contact 01888 545200 Y G I known risk factor in the development of anthelmintic resistance). Oxyclozanide poisoning In this case, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate was The Bristol University Farm Animal Pathology Service recently informed of an adverse effect to a veterinary product and, investigated a case where sheep developed swollen faces following a food safety risk assessment, the farmer was advised and heads. A group of 300 replacement ewe lambs had been that affected sheep should not be slaughtered for 28 days after drenched with a combination product (containing oxyclozanide drenching. and levamisole) and three days later at least six were off-colour, developed droopy ears, had high temperatures and their faces International congress began to slowly swell – see picture. Two affected ewe lambs The UK is proud to be hosting the Ninth International Sheep Vitality For more information died, while a further 13 animals in the group developed the same Veterinary Congress in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, on 22nd-26th please call us on 01668 213467 clinical signs the following day. May 2017. The theme is sustainable global food security and The case was reported to APHA due to concerns about anyone wishing to present a paper is invited to submit an abstract or visit www.stockmaxshavings.com bluetongue, which causes swelling and is a notifiable disease. of approximately 400 words. harbro.co.uk The official disease investigation ruled bluetongue out, and Details at www.sheepvetsoc.org.uk/isvc2017.

34 SHEEP FARMER DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 35 STOCKMAX NSA Sheep Farmer Ad.indd 1 10/11/2016 18:43 ADVERTORIAL

is better than cure is particularly true in this No part of the UK is exempt from situation. By feeding the ewe properly, in terms of both quantity and quality of feed supplied, twin lamb disease can be prevented. the liver fluke risk this winter The general rule of sheep feeding to offer supplementary nutrients six weeks pre lambing date is a useful guide, but must be related By Lesley Stubbings, SCOPS Fluke tests and information sources With ewes coming into the winter in good to ewe condition and, where possible, with Sheep farmers in areas where liver fluke is condition, the key is to now keep them in predicted scanning information. • Post-mortem examination. Investigate any unexplained endemic are well aware that they need to that condition, not getting overly fat or losing • Singles: Low levels of supplement should be A 95-litre cubi feeder. deaths and ask for abattoir feedback on the presence of be on their guard over the coming months. too much weight. Either of these scenarios offered to avoid too large a birth weight. can be reduced liver fluke. One of the mildest winters on record can lead to reduced performance and the • Twins: Medium level of supplementation • Low substitution rate means more can be fed • Fluke egg detection. Have faeces samples examined by followed by a very wet summer has left some increased chance of metabolic disorders. where the aim is to ensure two viable and than would be the case with a dry feed a lab to see if fluke eggs are present. This will confirm the regions, for example North and West Wales, Twin and triplet bearing ewes have a thriving lambs. • Sugar supply boosts rumen function, presence of adult fluke. North West England and Scotland, at high very high demand for energy and especially • Triplets: Maximum care and attention and meaning ewes get more from each mouthful • Coproantigen ELISA. Use this new test to detect infection risk. glucose and, as they get closer to lambing, careful supplementation required. consumed up to three weeks earlier than by egg detection. But what about those areas that don’t get a mention in the this demand increases. If these energy and Sheepmol and Sheepmol PLUS are high dry • Free access feeding can reduce stress and • Blood tests. Assess liver function, via a biochemistry test, national warnings? If you are in a so-called ‘lower risk’ area, glucose demands aren’t met, ewes can suffer matter, high sugar blends of cane molasses, the incidence of bullying or prolapse to give an indication that liver fluke may be present, and you must carry out your own risk assessment and use the from twin lamb disease/pregnancy toxaemia, glycerine and liquid co-products formulated ED&F Man offer a range of products suitable for look for antibodies, via a serology test, to detect if the tests, guidance and information available to help decide what a serious metabolic disorder. This can lead to specifically to feed sheep. The unique mix of sheep feeding, including the very well proven sheep is producing an immune response to infection. action, if any, to take. Do not assume that liver fluke is only a reduced performance, and in severe cases, loss energy sources is ideal to promote healthy lamb Prime 20 (a high sugar energy liquid with 20% problem in wet areas of the country. Instead, asses the risk of livestock. growth and maintain ewe health. protein as fed), and the recently reformulated within your own situation. of mud to support a significant liver fluke population. You Around 70% of the lamb’s growth takes Sheep diets are based around (hopefully) Sheepmol and Sheepmol PLUS, both being high 1. Farm history: If there is any history of liver fluke on the can reduce the risk by draining or fencing these areas off. place in the last two months of pregnancy. It is good quality forage supplemented with sugar, high energy liquid feeds, farm, you must take the threat seriously this winter. Also 3. Grazing patterns: If these snail habits were grazed by sheep therefore vital to ensure the ewe’s nutritional appropriate energy and protein sources as well with the added energy benefit consider any changes in recent years, such as taking in the first half of the grazing season, there is a higher risk requirements are met during this time. as a good source of vitamins and minerals. As of glycerine inclusion to reduce on rougher, wetter grazing or land with drainage the snails will have become infected and that there will To meet the high energy demands of the pregnancy progresses and the lamb grows, the the likelihood of twin lamb problems or ponds. be a large number of liver fluke in the area later in growing lamb, ewes metabolise body fat in the pressure on the rumen increases and it’s intake disease. 2. Wet areas: Think about places where the the season. If you grazed these areas again with liver, producing ketones. If the energy supplied capacity is reduced. For more information contact: Jim Howie 07770 731919 mud snail vital to the fluke life cycle can sheep from in the diet is inadequate, too much fat is Liquid feeds offer a number of unique thrive, such as muddy (rather than flooded) late summer Mel Broughton 07717 341425 Useful information metabolised, leading to an excessive build-up of benefits to sheep farmers:- Dave Stanford 07767 873748 areas in a field or around water troughs. onwards, the • For treatment options ketones to toxic levels. The rule that prevention • High palatability increases intakes when DMI Free phone: 0800 3898450 Fluke can multiply up to 500 times inside sheep will www.edfmanliquidproductsuk.com use www.scops.org.uk/ the snail, so you do not need large areas have been endoparasites-liver-fluke. exposed to html. high levels of • For detailed regional infection and warnings use www.nadis. this high risk org.uk/parasite-forecast. will continue all aspx. winter. • For local weather If you think some or all of information use www. your sheep could be at risk, metoffice.gov.uk/climate/ you must take action and uk/summaries/datasets. discuss your options with The number of days with your vet or adviser. A number 1mm+ rain between June of tests are available to help and September will have guide the need for treatment favoured the snail and Muddy areas, rather than flooded areas, favour the tiny mud and the choice of treatment is increased risk. snail (above right). also critical to success. Give them the best start in life "HIGHEST CONCENTRATED COLOSTRUM PER LITRE"* * FW Jan 16, Murray Corke, Cambridge University

Contact your local Downland retailer or telephone 01228 564478

[email protected] www.downland.co.uk

36 SHEEP FARMER DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 37

182mm x 65mm full colour advert Sheep Farmer 10th Nov 2016 the point of lambing. Do we have strategies in place to reduce The drugs don’t work The discussion about rational the course needed, such as navel Preserving antibiotics for the future As part of diligent antibiotic usage, antibiotic use in the lambing window is dipping and disinfection policy? And do using an antibiotic which we know a vast one and cannot be fully explored we actually need to use them or are they works is important to maximise the here. But the discussion should not an unnecessary cost? by reducing use in lambing sheds opportunity for clinical cure. In the lab start and end with choice of product. It we can easily work out which antibiotics should instead begin with a preventative Ewe health will work and see evidence where By Emily Gascoigne, vet strategy. How are you going to optimise Flock health and management planning resistance may have already developed. Antimicrobial use in agriculture, colostrum quality, ewe health, lamb is the ideal vehicle for this discussion, Don’t tolerate poor clinical results; they particularly blanket use of preventative health and hygiene to give every lamb as it focuses on having a ewe in prime warrant further investigation. antibiotics (prophylactics) in healthy the chance to find sufficient, good quality reproductive health and condition, animals, has come under the spotlight. invest in colostrum quality throughout colostrum quickly? managing her body condition score, At the same time there have been the productive year. Our weaning and We must ensure we can justify all creating a clean environment and documented cases of antibiotic flushing management, culling, lameness usage on farm and, if we must use minimising endemic disease. All these resistance in lamb scour and joint ill reduction strategies, fluke control plan antibiotics, that we are using the right principles optimise ewe performance, bacteria, so now is a good time to and nutritional rationing are just some ones. Have we confirmed the pathogen reduce lamb mortality and reduce work with your vet to look at on-farm examples of how we prepare ewes for involved and which antibiotics will kill it? antibiotic usage. practices. Joint ill and scour are the most common reasons for antibiotic usage in neonatal lambs but we can reduce reliance if we consider infection risks and implement management changes. E.coli infection typically presents in neonatal lambs with Sheep Farmer constipation Special Series followed by Putting a This is the second article of three scouring, Good lambing shed hygiene can reduce the environment load of looking at appropriate antibiotic use on E.coli and other bacteria. spring dehydration, sheep farms. As little as possible collapse and mortality. as much as necessary’ sheep enterprises. The breed, age, mastitis, nutrition and body in their steps So called ‘rattle belly’ or two licensed products are condition score. Thin ewes will produce ‘watery mouth’ can be a significant Spectam (Ceva Animal Health) and less volume and poorer quality so cause of poor thrift and lamb losses. Oroject (Zoetis Animal Health). There can consider factors such as chronic liver for over 30 years Although there are some strains (K99) be some misconceptions about these fluke, chronic lameness, poor nutrition, that are especially aggressive, lambs products but they are antibiotics and feeding practices and suboptimal typically become vulnerable to E.coli are licensed for prophylactic usage for condition at tupping. Colostrum quality when necessary criteria are not met. watery mouth in the face of an outbreak can be assessed using a refractometer. The bacteria are shed in faeces and – i.e. in clinically healthy animals to Quantity: New born lambs need any contaminated object is potentially prevent development of disease. Both 10% of their body weight in milk. For a a source of infection, including contain aminoglycosides, which work 4kg lamb that’s 400ml in its first 24 stomach feeding tubes, bottles, feeding locally in the gut by killing gram negative hours including 200ml in the first six equipment and milk (which itself can bacteria such as E.coli. to eight hours. In addition to the ewe’s InSta-LIfe become contaminated). This means If you are treating every lamb there production, consider reduced willingness hygiene is very important. are four questions to consider:- or ability of the lamb to feed. Are lambs fRom onlY 1. What are the risk factors for the sore and weak after difficult lambings? Diagnosis disease? Are they being out-competed by their 13p a dose Because other pathogens and poor 2. Can we use any other strategies sibling(s)? Are ewes reluctant to allow nutrition can cause scour, it is important to reduce our dependency on lambs to feed due to mastitis or post- to present cases to your vet and confirm antibiotics? lambing pain? Focusing on ewe care and with a diagnosis using faecal sampling. 3. Have I got the correct diagnosis? condition from weaning to pre-lambing Osmonds Lamb Colostrum Supplement While this may not sound cost effective 4. How can we use antibiotics sensibly can improve lamb size, vigour, ease of for an individual neonatal lamb, applying and keep them working? lambing and milk availability. was the very first colostrum supplement to be a correct diagnosis, treatment and Lambs have no effective immune Quickly: Sufficient colostrum within sold in the UK. Over 30 years later we continue to management practices to the remaining system immediately after birth and rely six hours of birth ensures lambs have produce the highest quality Colostrum Supplement lambs may have significant impacts for on antibodies from the ewe provided energy and protein before their infection- so your lambs get the very best start in life. health and welfare. by colostrum. These antibodies bind fighting energy from brown fat reserves Joint ill can be cause by a mixed bacteria in the guts or, once absorbed, runs out. It also ensures they have flora of bacteria (gram positives and act centrally in the blood stream. They protective antibodies before the gut gram negatives) which, once in the cross the intestinal wall via pores in the closes. Can your lambs feed quickly? Are bloodstream, deposit in multiple joints to intestinal walls but these pores close they losing their mothers in big maternity cause infection, stiffness and swelling. within six hours of birth, so failure to units? Are low slung udders making Animal Nutritionists & Veterinary Suppliers Lambs typically become infected via obtain colostrum within this time leaves sucking a challenge? Could lambing their navel but, crucially, also by oral lambs compromised. Colostrum is liquid support staff be more focused on the infection. This is usually linked to gold so, if faced by a watery mouth three Qs? bacterial load in the environment, so outbreak, work with your vet to assess We can assess the three Qs by blood hygiene is critical here too. the three Qs. sampling lambs when less than seven Quality Reliability Mixability Oral ‘pump’ antibiotics are one of Quality: Colostrum quality can vary days old, to check there has been the most common antibiotics used in between ewes and factors such as sufficient transfer. But remember, we Visit www.osmonds.co.uk or call 01948 668 100 38 SHEEP FARMER Bradeley Green, Tarporley Road, Whitchurch, Shropshire, SY13 4HD

Insta-life advert 216x220mm.indd 1 19/11/2015 15:45 Premium British wool labels boost Wool Week 2016 focuses on the the brand and assures customers role of wool in work, rest and play

As part of its work within the wool supply wool and the performance Now in seventh year, the chain, including its consumer promotions, attributes gained from Campaign for Wool UK British Wool Marketing Board (BWMB) it are compromised. Wool Week that ran in operates a three-tier certification process for This may impact on both mid-October 2016 was products made with British wool. spinning and manufacturing more jam-packed with BWMB marketing manager Tim Booth says processes and ultimately activities than ever. this premium certification structure allows companies to the finished item.” Uniting the add another layer of assurance to their products and is a To help manufacturers UK’s leading beneficially unique selling point for many manufacturers. and retailers in their brands in Mr Booth says: “British wool is recognised in a number marketing efforts, BWMB fashion, crafts PATRON: HRH THE PRINCE OF WALES of sectors as a quality product, including both the interior issues certificates and interiors, furnishings and apparel sectors, giving manufacturers, retailers depending on the the seven woolly-filled days allowed the and end-users a high degree of confidence in the product. As percentage of British wool public hands-on and exciting access a result, many retailers and end-users seek reassurance when included in the product. to wool, with the aim of promoting the they’re sourcing wool products that British wool has been used The highest level is the fibre as a versatile and in the manufacturing process.” platinum label, which premium product. requires 100% of the wool The week kicked off Only products with 100% British Performance and reliability content in the finished with the opening of the wool qualify for the platinum logo. Mr Booth adds that higher levels of British wool will ensure product to be grown in the first ever Wool BnB, an optimum performance levels and reliability within the product. UK on British breeds. imaginative and highly “The unique bulk and robust ‘spring’-like quality of the natural “In the case of carpets, creative display of all the crimp in the wool from British sheep breeds means it lends it must be either 100% possible ways of bringing itself to longer appearance retention, wear-ability, structure and wool or a minimum of 80% wool into the home. The Sheppard, a leading Saville • Slowing down fast fashion: Alex function within a wide range of products,” he says. wool to 20% man-made main message of the Row tailor, demonstrated James, former bass guitarist for Blur “When British wool is substituted with a different wool within fibres to qualify for the London-based spectacle the craft, expertise and and now a farmer and cheese maker, a blend, the strengths brought to the product by the British platinum label,” Mr Booth was that the many skill required in cutting a screened his film documenting the says. “In other products performance benefits of wool can help bespoke wool suit. enormous human and environmental the entire wool content must be 100% British wool to qualify. create a perfect home that is young and • Fashion patch workshop: This was a costs of the fashion industry. Wool is “The second tier of classification is the gold label. This vibrant but also embodies comfort. truly stylish workshop, hand-crafting an attractive, sustainable alternative. again refers only to the wool content of the finished product, Several events took place throughout beautiful woolly crochet trims to • Styling your home: Stylist and curator with 70% of this wool having to be British. The balance of the week in the specially created bed and personalise jeans and jackets. of the Wool BnB, Karina Garrick, gave the wool content must be another natural fibre, such as wool breakfast venue, which was then made • Wool and the gang: The BnB was the hourly talks on recreating woolly style of another origin or cashmere or suchlike. Under this label, available for a week of cosy overnight perfect venue for the return of the knit in your own home. carpets must once again by either 100% wool or a minimum of stays for a few lucky visitors: and natter workshop. • Woolly adventure talks: The Turner 80% wool to 20% man-made fibres in order to qualify. But other • Wool weaving workshop: Textiles • Hats for charity: This drop-in session Twins spoke of their experiences of products must be 100% natural fibre with a minimum of 70% Get 4 issues free, then designer Amy Ilic provided the saw visitors knitting fun hats for using wool in unusual conditions. British wool.” opportunity for visitors to try their Innocent smoothie bottles. This winter • SofarSound: The Wool BnB was also The third tier of the scheme is the blue label, requiring pay just £11.50 per month hand at weaving on mini table Innocent will give 25p to Age the ultimate cosy location for an a minimum of 50% of the wool in the finished product to be looms, bringing people UK for every ‘behatted’ intimate acoustic gig. British. when you subscribe in for an inspirational Sheep Farmer smoothie sold. craft afternoon. Assurance scheme • A cut above the Special Focus NSA and BWMB have teamed up To qualify to use these premium labels, licensed manufacturers rest: Anderson & must provide evidence of the wool content within a specified to tell farmers how wool is being product or range. This means each company has to declare its promoted. More on page 42. wool processing partners and the products in which the wool for the labels will be used. The information supplied in the company’s application may be subject to an audit by BWMB. Mr Booth says the premium label scheme is a valuable component of BWMB’s marketing strategy for manufacturers to encourage greater uptake of British wool across the market. He says: “Supporting manufacturers and retailers is a central part of our marketing activities which enables them to promote quality British wool products to their customers. The premium label scheme gives manufacturers and retailers a real point of difference when using British wool in their products and gives an assurance to the end user on the quality of the product they’re buying, much as the Red Tractor logo does in food retailing.” Act now! Call 01772 799 500 quoting HACL Keep reading for two more pages of wool promotions, or visit Farmers-Guardian.com/Subscribe and enter HACL reflecting on a successful Wool Week 2016.

40 SHEEP FARMER DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 41 FG covers subs ad HACL 90Wx134H.indd 1 17/11/2016 14:35 British Berrichon Blackface “The HARDY, Sheep Breeders’ EASY LAMBING, Sheep Breeding and EASY CARE Sheep” Association More from Wool Week 2016: lots Information on the breed and sale dates For information please contact available on our web site or from:- Services Directory Sue Powell 01989 770071/07974 360807 Advertise here from just £30 per edition. Aileen McFadzean, Tel/Fax: 01738 634018 Contact Helen Davies on 07976 803066 www.berrichonsociety.com Email [email protected] going on throughout the country or [email protected] T: 015395 67973 www.beltex.co.uk email: [email protected] www.scottish-blackface.co.uk C H A R O L L A I S DORSET As well as a specially Cambridge Now providing genotyped rams DOWN created Wool BnB in A Chop Ahead FAST FINISHING of known prolificacy potential London, there was lots of Details from Alun Davies of the Rest LAMBS OFF GRASS Cambridge Sheep Society Secretary Dorset Down Sheep Breeders’ Association wool activity outside of Havett Farm, Dobwalls, Liskeard, PL14 6HB the capital too. 01513 275699 01579 320273 [email protected] [email protected] www.dorsetdownsheep.org.uk www.cambridge-sheep.org.uk KING of the PRIME LAMB breed Selvedge Be the smarter investor, Selvedge Charmoise Web charollaissheep.com use a Border Leicester Easy Care magazine held the Phone 01953 603335 Sheep Farmer See what it can do for your flock! Hill Sheep Selvedge Wool Email Sheep PATRON: HRH THE PRINCE OF WALES It’s as easy as ABC… • HARDY Hill Sheep • Add SHAPE to your prime lambs [email protected] Symposium at Special Focus Added conformation The original wool shedding in Wales today, universities, attracted • EASY Lambing the Artworkers Guild in London, proudly NSA and BWMB have teamed up Built to last • Terminal Sire suitable for polled breed, established 50 including exhibitions a high standard of Cross it with any breed tupping EWE LAMBS sponsored by British Wool. It featured a to tell farmers how wool is being years ago. Beware imitations. Contact: Katie Keiley, Secretary. 01556 660155. 07902 855440 from a range of local work that displayed Please contact David Trow Tel: 01686 688234 series of speakers and the opportunity promoted. More on page 41. www.borderleicesters.co.uk www.charmoisesheep.co.uk www.easycaresheep.com to hand-spin wool from a variety of rare businesses, craftspeople the design potential of breeds in a ‘fibre tasting’ session. and talented spinners. real wool. P BREED ILE DE FRANCE EE ER LLEYN Sheep Society The breed to meat H S S ’ Secretary your grades Hand-knitting awards Woolly Hat Day 01758 730366 For 3Ls Welsh Wool Museum use an Ile de France th Promotions Officer The National Wool Museum hosted The first Campaign for Wool Hand Knitting Friday 14 October saw the return Less work and more profit Lean, Liveweight AS N 079666 99930 Competition, aimed at students choosing of Woolly Hat Day, encouraging the SOCIATIO Est. 1892 The fully performance recorded woolshedding and Lively lambs a Celebration of Wool Day, showing breed, selected for resistance to worms. [email protected] Secretary Edward Adamson visitors the variety of uses for wool a design and knit pathway at top UK wool-loving community to host an event strength in versatility Tel 01985 845063 / 01647 252549 07711 071290 www.lleynsheep.com and share its success online with www.sig.uk.com www.iledefrancesheep.com the Twitter hashtag #WoollyHatDay. It Bicester Village encouraged the use and wear of wool HAMPSHIRE MANX LOAGHTAN Pop-up boutique British Wool Collective for keeping warm and raised money for DOWN Low input producer of gourmet quality lamb and mutton opened a popular fashion hub, Bicester the incredible work of the Mission for The UK native terminal Seafarers. sire for naturally fast- Fine, naturally coloured wool Village, in Wool Week. It will run until early January 2017, the perfect Tel: 01305 262126 finishing lambs off forage Ideal conservation grazer Contact Janet Hill on 01700 831652 e-mail: [email protected] Breed Secretary, Kim Everett, 01580 852691 opportunity for those looking for high Baaatique Hotel [email protected] Lleyn Ewe with Texel Lambs quality woolly Christmas gifts from a fine The ‘Baaatique’ Hotel popped up at www.dorsetsheep.org.uk www.hampshiredown.org.uk www.manxloaghtansheep.org

array of British brands the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour. Visitors saw work, rest and play in North of Southdown Great on ewe lambs multi-functional spaces, with the beauty, England comfort and quality of wool from some of Details from the secretary Mule Sheep Mrs Gail Sprake the most prestigious industry names. 01986 782251 secretary@southdownsheep Association For details of your local breeders call society.co.uk

Tel: 01904 448675 www.southdownsheepsociety.co.uk

www.meatlinc.co.uk The breed that makes ends meat THE ORIGINAL &

NORTH COUNTRY CHEVIOT BRITISH ROUGE SHEEP BEST MULE The ideal The ideal The easy lambing terminal sire (Bluefaced Leicester x Swaledale or crossing ewe for producing quick growing lambs with For breed and sale Northumberland Type Blackface) sire for producing excellent meat to bone ratio information please visit all hill mules and For full Auction Mart Sales List GE SHE U EP O R S Secretary: Stephanie Wilson ewes half-breds O www.suffolksheep.org H S C I Contact Marion Hope I T E [email protected] I

Profit from Quality Store Lambs T R Y Or call Telephone 01387 371777 B 01556 474097 Visit www.nc-cheviot.co.uk W K W .U W O .R . C 07989 978059 02825 O T Y e-mail: [email protected] Contact 01750 82338 or U G E -S O C IE website: www.nemsa.co.uk [email protected] www.rouge-society.co.uk 632342

Cymdeithas Gwella Defaid Mynydd SWALEDALE Cymreig Adran Bedigri GEORGE MUDGE SHEARING New and second hand SHEEP Improved WELSH MOUNTAIN SHEEP mains and 12V machines. SOCIETY PEDIGREE SECTION BREEDERS Full range of spares. Established 1905 ASSOCIATION All requisites for shearers. England’s Premier Hill Breed. Tel: 01745 730949 NZ Super Crook for only £25 Ewes are supreme for breeding secretary@welshmountain Contact 01822 615456 or sheepsociety.com [email protected] Mule Lambs. Rams are ideal for crossing www.welshmountainsheepsociety.com www.georgemudgeshearing.co.uk with other Hill Breeds for increased lamb production Join us at an NSA Sheep Event in 2017 on the hill. www.nationalsheep.org.uk/events Secretary: • NSA Central Region Early Gathering: Thursday 26th January, All events FREE or Bakewell, Derbyshire Find out more at www.campaignforwool. John Stephenson HALF PRICE entry • NSA Welsh Sheep: Tuesday 16th May, Talybont-on-Usk, Powys for members. Not org, follow the campaign on Twitter @ Barnley View, Town Head, • NSA Highland Sheep: Wed 31st May at Strathpeffer, Ross-shire Eggleston, Barnard Castle, a member? Join campaignforwool, and like it on Facebook at www.national • NSA North Sheep: Wed 7th June at Tow Law, Northumberland Co. Durham DL12 0DE • NSA Sheep SW: Tuesday 20th June at Tiverton, Devon at /thecampaignforwool. sheep.org.uk/ Tel: 01833 650516 membership • NSA Sheep NI: Monday 3rd July at Ballymena County Antrim

42 SHEEP FARMER DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 43 NSA Next Generation event a big hit Apply now for 2017 sheep training

More than 80 young people with an interest in sheep and a A key part of the NSA Next Generation project is a unique thirst for knowledge came together to enjoy the fourth annual opportunity for up to 12 people per year to become NSA Next NSA Next Generation event, held this year at Stratford-upon- Generation Ambassadors. Avon Livestock Market, Warwickshire. Each year’s group is invited to take part in five delivery Supporting younger sheep farmers and new entrants is a sessions over 12 months, providing sheep farming expertise, major area of work for NSA, with this event and many other business management skills and personal development. activities held as part of the ongoing NSA Next Generation The group shares targets and plans, spurring each other on project. Hannah Park, NSA Communications Officer, reports on to further their careers and farm businesses, before each the Stratford event: “The interactive format was designed to individual continues their Ambassador role by committing to attract everyone from established shepherds looking for advice NSA or sheep industry activity in the longer-term. specific to their system to new entrants looking for inspiration Joanne Briggs, NSA Communications Manager, says: “A or ideas on which sheep farming path might be best suited to huge amount of topics are covered within the five sessions, them. It provided an ideal opportunity for combined with farm walks (pictured), site visits and guest those attending to meet like-minded speakers. We’ve had unbelievable feedback from the three individuals and NSA representatives. groups from 2014 to 2016, all of whom remain in touch with A series of practical workshops each other and with NSA. It really is a fantastic opportunity and sheep and views about the sector, which NSA uses to shortlist (pictured) made up the series of introductory talks from four young shepherds who’ve I urge people to apply to take part.” up to 20 people for interview, before selecting the final 12. bulk of the each taken a different path into sheep farming.” The application window for the 2017 NSA Next Generation Find full details and the online application form at www. day, and The event will be held again in November 2017, hopefully in Ambassador group is open until Sunday 18th December. It nsanextgeneration.org.uk/applyonline. Meet the 2016 group followed a Wales. More information at www.nsanextgeneration.org.uk. involves answering six questions about your involvement in below. NSA Ambassadors for 2016 reflect on an action-packed 12 months

The NSA Next Generation event in mid-November also represented the final of five delivery sessions for the 2016 Jamie Laurie (23) Dumfries and Galloway James Wright (24) Gloucestershire NSA Next Generation Ambassador group. Working with his father on a tenanted mixed livestock farm. Studying agriculture alongside farming sheep after a recent As well as getting involved in the open event at Stratford “Being an NSA Next Generation Ambassador is an amazing move from West Sussex to Cirencester. Market, the group had the opportunity to meet and exchange opportunity. It’s made me realise the importance of “Looking back on my year as an NSA Next Generation experiences with Ambassadors from the previous two years’ of promoting the sheep sector. I’m on Twitter now and want Ambassador, it’s been great to take the time to look at the programme. They also completed their media training and to continue being an Ambassador for our industry. It’s also my farming business objectively. I feel I have a greater prepared for continuing their roles as ambassadors now their meant I have a more structured plan for what I want for my appreciation of the wider industry and am armed with more first year is over, forging links with NSA regional committees. own future and how I should farm sheep as efficiently and knowledge. Hopefully this will help me as I continue to look Here they share their experiences from what has been a profitably as possible.” for a tenancy and increase my sheep to a number that allows whirlwind of a year for them. me to work with them full-time.” Ellen Helliwell (23) Cumbria Jacob Anthony (23) Bridgend Moving from Gloucestershire for a new shepherding job. Olly Matthews (28) Somerset Pushing the sheep enterprise within the family farm. “I want to say thank you to NSA for this amazing experience. Running sheep and poultry in partnership with his brother. “My involvement in the programme this year has changed my I’ve learnt so much, gained confidence and met like-minded “This programme has been great and I definitely want to stay attitude and inspired me to be more positive. It’s also spurred people who will be my friends for life. If you’re passionate as involved as possible with NSA in the future. It’s made me me on to increase numbers at home, improve efficiency and about sheep you should definitely apply for the programme. look more at my financial data and be more confident about improve our set-up, particularly with our handling system. I’ve It will aid you so much for your future. I’ve become more expanding sheep numbers and developing our flock.” not only improved my knowledge of the sector through the year, confident in making decisions and want to improve the flock but also enjoyed socialising with like-minded people.” I’m now working with, as well as starting my own flock and Michael Ritch (25) Aberdeenshire promoting the industry as much as possible.” Adding sheep to the family’s beef and arable enterprises. Fred Love (24) Nottinghamshire “I’ve already started making changes as a result of being an Growing his flock from a standing start as a new entrant. Ernie Richards (23) Shropshire Ambassador. I’m now using faecal egg counts and rotational “I would recommend others to sign up to the NSA Next Working as an employed shepherd on the Welsh border. paddock grazing. I’m keen to keep increasing ewe numbers, The NSA Next Generation Ambassadors 2016 receiving their Generation Ambassador programme, as it’s a great way to “This has been a brilliant experience. I’ve absolutely loved but to improve quality and efficiency at the same time. I certificates of achievement. Back row from left to right: Dan meet people and have your eyes opened to all parts of the it. It makes you think more about what you’re doing and has would definitely encourage others to do the programme. It’s Pritchard, James Wright, Olly Matthews and Jamie Laurie. industry. It’s made me more confident to increase my flock really opened my eyes. I’m looking forward to applying what made me more confident to meet new people and discuss Middle row: Alex Olphert, Jacob Anthony, Michael Ritch, Robert further and employ someone in the future to give them an I’ve learnt to the flock I work with, and also to my own flock in topics and give my point of view. You meet like-minded people Spink and Fred Love. Front row: Ellen Helliwell, Ernie Richards opportunity too. I want to promote the sheep industry and time. My links with NSA will continue as I get more involved and see so many different farming systems.” and Hannah Jackson. this NSA programme.” with NSA Marches Region Committee.” Robert Spink (25) Norfolk/Suffolk border Dan Pritchard (31) Swansea Hannah Jackson (24) Cumbria Alex Olphert (24) Hampshire Balancing sheep and crops since taking on the family farm. Developing the family business selling salt marsh lamb. Freelance shepherding alongside a small commercial flock. Juggling work on the busy family farm with local contracting. “This programme is a great way to learn more skills, gain a “The programme has definitely inspired me to try and run “This programme has made me even more positive about “I feel like I’ve learnt a huge amount in the last year. It’s greater understanding of the industry and meet some brilliant a more profitable business. My first steps towards this the industry and keen to work through NSA to help other new inspired me to keep improving the family business, but also people from across the country. It has been an inspirational have been focused on sheep health and I’ve spoken to entrants like me starting out with sheep. I want to help the to play my part to develop all parts of the sheep sector so year for me, making me more confident to move forward and my vet about a better worming programme and introducing younger generation and represent younger people within NSA. we have a thriving industry. I’ve changes a few areas on the willing to listen to new and progressive ideas. I’m on the NSA vaccination for abortion. I look forward to getting involved With my own flock, I’ve started making better use of grass and farm already, including new grass leys and improved ewe English Committee now and want to get more involved in this with NSA is my region, to keep up the link with NSA.” adding value by direct selling boxed lamb. I feel I now have a management and selection. I’ve also been able to grow my and NSA Eastern Region, as well as promoting sheep farming great support system for the future.” contact base.” locally and helping with young shepherds’ activities/groups.”

44 SHEEP FARMER DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 45 SheepFarmerAdArtwork 210x297+3mm Nov16.pdf 1 10/11/2016 12:43

EWE&LAMB

✔A free access feed tub used in the 4-6 weeks prior to lambing. ✔Provides ewes with an excellent source of energy from sugars, starch and protected fat. ✔ Includes high quality MOS designed to improve colostrum quality. ✔Vitamins, minerals and trace elements incorporated at optimum levels to achieve enhanced animal performance. ✔High in Vitamin E and Selenium to promote a healthy immune system.

For more information call

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