#NEXTGEN
Our future UK agriculture is embracing some significant transitions as the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) is phased out, and more focus is placed on the environment. Sarah Alderton speaks to five next-generation beef producers at the start of their farming journey to find out how they feel about the future, what got them into farming and their love of the Beef Shorthorn.
How did you get into farming? Farming is in my blood. My grandparent’s farmed dairy, beef and sheep in Staffordshire and delivered animal feed. I was also a member of Young Farmers. Twelve years ago, when I was 21/22, I decided to set up my herd. A great opportunity arose when 18ha and a shed came up for sale, so I bought it. I started with two foundation females; one was from Mark Holmes of the Holmeere herd and the other female was from Chelford Market from Mrs Robson of the Lynthorpe herd. I also purchased some commercial cattle.
#NEXTGEN Emma Trueman Roundhill herd, Staffs/Derbys border • 30 pedigree females and 50 head run across approximately 40ha • Works full time as veterinary practice manager at Moorland Veterinary Centre, Staffs • Increased the herd through embryo transfer, flushing and AI
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Why Beef Shorthorn? I wanted a docile breed since I would be working with the stock on my own and since joined by my partner, Dave and brother Andrew; they are always on hand to help out. The breed can also thrive on low inputs, and they are hardy, which was needed since the ground I own near Flash on the Staffordshire/ Derbyshire border is 1,500ft above sea level. It’s like winter in the summer. How many cattle do you have? My entire herd is now Beef Shorthorn and I have about 50 head, with 30 breeding females. I also rent another 20ha. One of my foundation cows, the Lynthorpe cow, has been flushed and I have done a lot of embryo work and AI. She had excellent maternal traits and everything she has produced I liked. I have retained a lot of females, which has allowed me to build up the herd. What do you enjoy most about having cows? It’s like having a second family. I get a lot of enjoyment seeing something go on and do well. I do a bit of showing and have been to the UK Championships at the Great Yorkshire Show a few times. This year I took a first with a yearling heifer. Locally, I have won a few interbreeds.
Beef Shorthorn Cattle Society Journal 2022
