SHEEP South West, organised by the National Sheep Association’s (NSA) South West region, has already secured record bookings from the sheep industry for its event to be held on Tuesday June 20th.

The bi-annual event is this year hosted by David and Janet Disney at Ayshford, Westleigh near Tiverton. The site is situated next to Junction 27 of the M5 in Devon and an hour from Bristol airport.

Major sponsors are Shearwell Data and Waitrose in partnership with Dalehead Foods and Jaspers.

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), British Wool Marketing Board (BWMB), Ceva Animal Health, MSD and Mole Valley Farmers are the event’s main sponsors.

From within the region Bridgmans, South West Sheep Breeding Services, Wynnstay Group and Anytime, Anywhere Caterers have offered sponsorship. Harpers Feeds, JG Animal Health and Kivells support the event at a national level.

Following the success of the inaugural Gift of the Gavel competition, aspiring auctioneers this year have the opportunity to sell real consignments during the final judged by Kivells sheep auctioneer Russell Steer. All monies raised will be donated to the Farming Community Network (FCN).

The sheep dog sale also returns. Two years ago 26 dogs were forward with bids reaching £2500 for a year-old dog from County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland.

The site will accommodate over 40 breed societies. There will be a lamb selection competition and fleece classes – including a qualifier for the National Golden Fleece final.

The Young Shepherd competition is open to anyone 26-years old and under to showcase farming skills. Top two contestants will represent NSA South West region at the national finals at Malvern in 2018.

This year there will be greater emphasis on practical demonstrations and workshops. During the sheep handling workshop visitors will wear glasses which provide a sheep’s visual perspective in a handling system.

There are also shearing demonstrations – both machine and blade - as well as the opportunity to try out the ‘Have a Go’ shearing laid on by BWMB. An electric fencing grazing demonstration aims to improve efficiency, sustainability and profitability in pasture-based sheep enterprises.

Further information regarding the event, trade bookings and competition entry dates and forms can be found on the NSA Sheep South West website and Facebook page.