The National Beef Association will be hosting the Future Beef Farmer competition in conjunction with AHBD at the NBA Beef Expo in Stoneleigh on May 18.

The competition invites individuals and groups of 16 - 36 year olds to showcase their knowledge across a range of aspects of beef production, and compete for a range of prizes.

The winning team will be awarded the NBA's Duke of Northumberland Trophy while the winner of the open class will receive the NBA Frank Momber Memorial Trophy.

Competitors will be judged on carcass selection and their knowledge of nutrition, genetics and health, visiting trade stands of industry experts to demonstrate their skills in each sector.

Chris Mallon, NBA director, said: "There really is no competition like the Future Beef Challenge anywhere else in the UK and we’re delighted to host this competition at Beef Expo 2017.

"We were delighted with the success of Future Beef Farmer Challenge last year and also in 2015, which attracted a high level of interest from both individuals and teams.

"To move forward within the industry it is very important to have an in-depth knowledge of the beef sector at both a practical and a scientific level. This competition is designed to challenge both, and we are delighted that it is to become such an integral part of our annual NBA Beef Expo.

“Encouraging the next generation of progressive beef farmers is hugely important for the future sustainability of the industry, and it’s something we at the NBA are very keen to support.”

The competition comes as part of the NBA's recent campaign to embrace a new generation of beef farmers and the launch of their young member's discount allowing those with an interest in the beef industry. aged 16 to 25, to become a member for just £40.

Rosie McGowan, development manager of the NBA said: “We are delighted to encourage a new generation of farmers to become more in the work we carry out on behalf of the industry.

"The NBA’s key focus is to act as the voice of the Beef Industry and we feel it is vital that the younger generation are represented.”

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For more information on the competition, and the show, please visit beefexpo.co.uk