Tornado Wire Fencing Competition 2026 Showcases Industry Excellence at NSA Sheep Event

The Tornado Wire Fencing Competition 2026 once again demonstrated why it remains one of the fencing industry's most respected events, attracting elite fencing contractors from across the UK and overseas to compete in a test of skill, precision and craftsmanship.

Held at the NSA Sheep Event at the Three Counties Showground in Malvern on Tuesday 28th July, the competition brought together 12 teams, each consisting of two competitors, who were challenged to construct approximately 60 metres of Tornado high-tensile stock netting, complete with two end straining posts and a slight turn in the fence line. Teams had just three hours to complete the task, requiring them to balance speed with the exceptional quality standards demanded by the judges.

This year's competition presented an added challenge, with difficult ground conditions and warm weather testing both the physical endurance and technical expertise of every competitor throughout the day.

Adding an international dimension to the event, previous fencing champions from New Zealand and Ireland travelled to compete, further elevating the standard of competition and showcasing fencing excellence on a global stage.

Throughout the day, large crowds gathered around the competition arena to watch the teams at work as every aspect of their craftsmanship and technique was closely assessed by the judging panel.

After a fiercely contested competition, John Morgan and Si Gibbs claimed first place. The New Zealand pairing of Jeff Joines and Wilton Weeks secured second place, while Pete Redgwell and Stuart Miles completed the podium in third.

As part of their winning prize, Jogn and Si will travel to New Zealand next year to represent the UK in the prestigious Fieldays Fencing Competition, competing against some of the world's best contractors and showcasing the high standards of British fencing on the international stage.

Malcolm Blackford, Sales Manager at Tornado Wire, said: “We’ve been running the Tornado Fencing Competition since 1984 to promote and establish professional standards and showcase best practice across the industry. The standard just gets better and better.

“To further challenge competitors, we introduced an element of steel fencing, adding a modern twist to what has traditionally been a showcase of classic skills. Feedback on Tornado’s Pro-Strain System and Pro-Strain i-Posts was extremely positive, so they are likely to feature in future competitions.

“The ground conditions were brutal, so I’d like to congratulate not only the winners, but every team that took part.”

Reflecting on the event, Rebecca Galley, CEO of Tornado Wire, said: “The Tornado Wire Fencing Competition exceeded every expectation I had. It was my first one since joining Tornado Wire, and I loved every minute.

“Watching the contractors at work was a real privilege. The standard is incredibly high, and seeing the skill, precision and experience they bring to what they do was genuinely impressive. It's easy to underestimate what goes into building a great fence until you see some of the best in the industry doing it in front of you.

“It was great to see so many people come together. Contractors, customers, suppliers and others from across the industry all spending time together, sharing ideas, learning from each other and supporting the competition. That sense of community is something really special.

“Finally, I'd like to say a huge thank you to Malcolm Blackford and everyone at Tornado Wire for the enormous amount of work that goes into organising the competition. I'd also like to thank M&M Timber and the Association of Fencing Industries for their continued support."

The success of the event was made possible through the collective efforts of competitors, sponsors, judges and supporters. Tornado Wire extends its thanks to the judging team, Robert Bell for his expert commentary throughout the day, and to everyone who attended and supported the competition.

Professional media coverage was provided by Seth Conway Media and his team, who documented the event from start to finish through photography, videography and live coverage, ensuring the achievements and atmosphere of the day were captured in full.

The Tornado Wire Fencing Competition continues to play an important role in promoting professional standards, encouraging innovation and celebrating the skills of fencing contractors across the industry.

Tornado Wire looks forward to welcoming competitors, customers and industry professionals back for the next Tornado Wire Fencing Competition in 2028.