Pre-event farm tours part of packed NSA Sheep 2018 line-up

As part of the impressive line-up of attractions at NSA Sheep 2018 this year, a day of farm tours is set to take place prior to the event.

With the theme of this years’ event ‘Thriving in an uncertain future’ in mind, individuals will have the opportunity to visit two progressive sheep farms in the surrounding counties striving to do just that. 

Organised in conjunction with Field Farm Tours, these will depart from the Three Counties Showground – home of NSA Sheep 2018 – a day ahead of the event on Tuesday 17^th July 2018.

NSA Sheep 2018 will be held on Wednesday 18^th July 2018, where more than 250 trade and breed society exhibitors alongside numerous attractions will come together for visitors to enjoy. Industry experts will also be on-hand to deliver a programme of technical seminars, workshops and demonstrations with the very latest information through the day.

Helen Davies, Event Organiser, says: “NSA Sheep 2018 is the major technical event for the UK sheep industry. With the UK’s journey to leave the EU now officially more than half way through, there is little doubt that changes are on the horizon. This year’s event will focus providing ideas and opportunities for individuals keen to thrive as we look to embrace these, with a series of packed seminars and workshops designed to deliver this.

“The farm tour day on Tuesday 17^th July is a fantastic addition to this line-up, back for a second year after its successful launch at the 2016 event. Individuals will get the opportunity to see how two producers are embracing the challenges posed by Brexit, focussing on diversification and production efficiencies to future proof their businesses.”  

The tour will head first to the home of Pauhla and Martin Whittaker who run a fully certified organic farm in Gloucestershire. The pair run 350 breeding ewes, a 70-cow suckler herd and some arable production alongside regular workshops, certificated professional therapist courses and direct sales of home-produced lamb and beef.

Heading to Worcestershire for the second visit will bring the tour to Sam Jones’, who runs a flock of 1,150 North Country Mules, the primary enterprise alongside some arable production. Sam is a keen advocate of data recording, which he incorporates into his system alongside the use of solar panels and biomass boiler.

Helen concludes: “NSA Sheep 2018 is a must-visit for anyone involved in the sheep industry, with NSA members eligible to get into event completely free of charge. We’re looking forward to presenting another event to remember.”

Booking is essential to secure a place on the farm tours. Find information at www.sheepevent.org.uk. NSA Sheep 2018 farm tours are managed on behalf of NSA by Field Farm Tours.

NSA members can enter NSA Sheep 2018 free of charge. One membership card permits one free entry. Individuals can sign up in advance at www.nationalsheep.org.uk.