National Young Stars
An eagerly anticipated attraction to the 2026 event was the return of the National Young Stars Competition, making its first appearance at NSA Sheep Event since 2019.
Designed for teams young sheep enthusiasts aged 11-18, the competition challenged participants across a range of practical and communication skills, including stock assessment, livestock preparation, ringcraft, promotional displays, industry knowledge and interviews.
The competition attracted enthusiastic teams from across the country, with the Texel Team of of Robbie Aiken from Cumbria and Rhianydd Davies, from Carmarthenshire both 18, taking the inaugural title since the competition's return. The duo were presented with the Euan Emslie Memorial trophy, named in honour of Euan who supported the competition's initial development and who sadly passed away in 2025. Dillon Bros - brothers Iestyn (14) and Iwan Dillon (12) finished runners-up, followed by The Ryeland Ring Stars - Tilly James (13) and Avena Parker (13), J & S Show Team, Sophie Long (15) and Jemima Roberts (15) and Team Jacob, Joe Trofer Cook (14) and Bertie Stanley (11).
Mr Stocker adds: "It was fantastic to welcome National Young Stars back to NSA Sheep Event. The enthusiasm, confidence and professionalism shown by every team was remarkable and gives us real confidence for the future of the sheep industry. These young people are developing skills that will benefit them throughout their careers and demonstrate exactly why investing in the next generation is so important."
National Young Stars, sponsored by the Co-Op and McCartney's
- Texel Team - Robbie Aiken and Rhianydd Davies
- Dillon Bros - Iestyn Dillon and Iwan Dillon
- The Ryeland Stars - Avena Parker and Tilly James
- J & S Show Team - Sophie Long and Jemima Roberts
- Team Jacob - Joe Trofer Cook and Bertie Stanley
The National Young Stars Competition wouldn't be possible without the fantastic support of our sponsors and contributors.
With huge thanks to Co-Op, McCartneys Rural, The Sheep Game, Herdy, Chilvers Country Supplies, Ridgeline, The Elms and Charlies.
