Excellence and expertise celebrated through competition at NSA Sheep Event 2026

The exceptional skill, professionalism and dedication found throughout the UK sheep sector was on full display at NSA Sheep Event 2026 yesterday (Tuesday 28th July), as competitors of all ages showcased the highest standards of sheep farming in a packed programme of competitions at Three Counties Showground.

From experienced fencing contractors to talented young shepherds, the event celebrated the practical expertise that underpins the success of the British sheep industry.

A major highlight of the day was the national final of the NSA Next Generation Shepherd Competition, kindly sponsored by the Texel Sheep Society. Having qualified through regional heats across the UK, the country's leading young shepherds demonstrated their knowledge and practical ability through a series of demanding tasks designed to reflect the skills required by modern sheep farming.

After an impressive display of stockmanship and technical expertise, Chloe Nadin from Staffordshire claimed the prestigious national title, ahead of Tom Garlick, Herefordshire, in second place and Tilly Abbott, Suffolk, in third. Jack Maxwell, Maghera, Northern Ireland, was recognised as the highest-placed competitor aged under 21.

NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker says: "One of the greatest strengths of our industry is the calibre of young people coming through. The Next Generation Shepherd Competition demonstrates the breadth of knowledge and practical ability needed to run successful sheep enterprises today. Every finalist should be incredibly proud of their achievement. The standard this year was once again outstanding."

Another eagerly anticipated attraction 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."

Elsewhere around the showground, spectators gathered to watch the ever-popular Tornado Wire Fencing Competition, where speed, precision and craftsmanship were all put to the test. Dragon Fencing & HVB Fencing claimed first place ahead of Jeff Joines & W W Fencing, with P D R Contracting & S RM Fencing taking third.

The British Wool Fleece Competition once again highlighted the quality of British wool production, with entries judged across a wide range of classes. Susie Parish was awarded the overall Champion Fleece with her winning entry from the Fine Wool class, while Elfyn Owen secured the Reserve Champion title.

Competition also remained fierce among exhibitors, with awards recognising the high standards of presentation seen throughout the event.

Aberystwyth University and Lanotech claimed Best Indoor Trade Stand whilst Tornado Wire received the award for Best Outdoor Trade Stand.

The British Charollais Sheep Society won both Best Breed Society Stand and Best Pen of Sheep, reflecting the outstanding quality of its displays throughout the day.

NSA Event Organiser Helen Roberts says: "The competitions are always one of the highlights of NSA Sheep Event because they showcase the professionalism, dedication and pride that exists right across the sheep sector. Whether it was experienced contractors demonstrating their trade, exhibitors presenting first-class displays, or young competitors taking on practical challenges, every competition reflected the exceptionally high standards found throughout our industry.

"It was particularly rewarding to see so many young people getting involved. Their enthusiasm and commitment shows the future of British sheep farming is in very capable hands."

Competition Results

Best Indoor Trade Stand

1. Aberystwyth University & Lanotech
2. Provita
3. Clipfitter

Best Outdoor Trade Stand

1. Tornado Wire
2. Stow Ag
3. GLW Feeds

Best Breed Society Stand

1. British Charollais Sheep Society
2. Bluefaced Leicester Sheep Breeders' Association
3. North of England Mule Sheep Association

NSA Next Generation Shepherd Competition, sponsored by the Texel Sheep Society

1. Chloe Nadin, NSA Central Region
2. Tom Garlick, NSA Marches Region
3. Tilly Abbott, NSA Eastern Region
4. Mary Lucas Ridge, NSA South West Region
5. William Hopper, NSA South West Region
6. Henry Rich, NSA South West Region

Highest Placed Under 21
Jack Maxwell

Best Pen of Sheep, sponsored by LAA

1. British Charollais Sheep Society
2. Welsh Mule Society
3. Texel Sheep Society

National Young Stars, sponsored by the Co-Op and McCartney's

1. Texel Team - Robbie Aiken and Rhianydd Davies
2. Dillon Bros - Iestyn Dillon and Iwan Dillon
3. The Ryeland Stars - Avena Parker and Tilly James
4. J & S Show Team - Sophie Long and Jemima Roberts
5. Team Jacob - Joe Trofer Cook and Bertie Stanley

Tornado Wire Fencing Competition

1. Dragon Fencing & HVB Fencing
2. Jeff Joines & W W Fencing
3. P D R Contracting & S RM Fencing

British Wool Fleece Competition
Champion: Susie Parish
Reserve Champion: Elfyn Owen