Competitors at the ready for NSA Sheep 2018!

Shepherding skills, fencing prowess and wool quality will all be put to the test in an exciting array of competitions at the National Sheep Association’s (NSA) Sheep 2018 this summer.

A highlight of the flagship event of the NSA, which takes place on Wednesday 18^th July at the Three Counties Showground, Worcestershire, will be the national final of the NSA Next Generation Shepherd of the Year competition, sponsored by the Texel Sheep Society.  The best young shepherds from around the UK will go head-to-head in a range of tasks designed to test their skills ranging from shearing to lamb selection. The competition will also include a mystery challenge testing the young shepherds’ skills and knowledge of a topical subject currently affecting the UK sheep sector. Each of the 18 competitors has fought hard to get to the final, securing a place via the nine regional competitions held by the NSA up and down the country. This forms part of the NSA Next Generation programme, dedicated to encouraging and supporting the sheep farmers of the future.

Returning once again to entertain the crowds, NSA Sheep 2018 will include the highly respected wire fencing competition, sponsored by Tornado, where competitors will be required to demonstrate speed, skill and stamina as they race to erect a section of fencing before the allotted time runs out. The popular contest is judged not just on time but importantly on the quality of the finished work, and spectators can expect an exciting display as rival fencing teams take part.

NSA Sheep Event Organiser Helen Davies comments: “The excitement of the competitions held at all NSA sheep events is always a draw for the visiting crowds, and NSA Sheep 2018 looks set to be no exception. We look forward to welcoming competitors from across the UK to test their shepherding and farming skills against each other in what will be some hard-fought contests.”

Those seeking a quieter spot will also find plenty of interest at NSA Sheep Event 2018. Away from the hustle and bustle of the fencing and Next Generation competition areas, visitors will find the fleece competition, featuring a fine display of fleeces from a range of sheep. The contest, which is a qualifier for the British Wool ‘Golden Fleece’ competition, includes seven classes of fleece and is open to all wishing to show off their finest wool.

NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker says: “We are looking forward to another fantastic year for the NSA Sheep Event. The competitive element really does add an area of interest for visitors and it is always pleasing to recognise the skills and hard work of those competing on such a recognised stage within the industry. We wish all competitors for 2018 the very best of luck and can’t wait to see the competition outcomes.”

Entry to the NSA Next Generation Shepherd competition is limited to regional qualifiers. Limited space is still available in the wire fencing competition, and entries are welcomed for the fleece competition. Visit www.sheepevent.org.uk/competitions.

As well as supporting the fencing competition, Tornado has also teamed up with NSA on its 2018 free prize draw. New members joining NSA, or existing members that nominate a new member, can win one of four sets of stock fencing wire and fittings worth over £450 to be given away through 2018. Becoming a member also entitles you to enter NSA Sheep 2018 free of charge. One membership card permits one free entry. Sign up in advance and enter the free prize draw at www.nationalsheep.org.uk/membership.

More event information, including full details of all competitions at www.sheepevent.org.uk.