2020 50th Anniversary Simmental Review by British Simmental Cattle Society

The Review

50TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

2020

SIMMENTAL

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Corskie Haze 1st, Reserve Female & Reserve Overall in the Scottish Simmental Club Online Show Mother of Corskie Kaze pictured below Sire – Bel Dhu Capercaillie Dam – Corskie Weather

Corskie Flume 10th out of 157 cows in the British Simmental Online Show Very successfully shown as a heifer including many Female Championships at local shows Sire – Bel Dhu Capercaillie Dam – Corskie Blume

HP Advert Corskie Kaze Sire – Auchorachan Farmer Dam – Corskie Haze Sold Privately in October 2020 to Graham Allan of the Glenturk Herd

Garmouth Kingston Sire – Drumagarner Hughes Dam – Garmouth Clover’s Honeysuckle Sold to Genus Spring 2020

Contact: Iain Green: 07831808800 / 01343 870387 Or email: iain@wjjgreen.co.uk or laura@wjjgreen.co.uk Check out our website: www.corskiesimmentals.co.uk Find us on Facebook for the latest news: Corskie Farm 2

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The Review 2020

ISLAVALE ISLAVALE KRISTOFF - OCTOBER SALE, JOINT TOP PRICE AT 14000GNS

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ISLAVALE KAI - OCTOBER SALE, JOINT TOP PRICE AT 14000GNS

HP Advert Classified herd with over 50 Ex Classified Cows YOUNG STOCK, SEMEN AND EMBRYOS FOR SALE FROM ALL OUR TOP SIRES 4 ½ Star Performance Recorded Herd

Members of Hi-Health

TEL: 01542 870644 or Stewart: 07779 782777 4

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VISITORS WELCOME

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The Review 2020

THE REVIEW 2020

CONTENTS 150

159

123

Society Staff..................................................................................................08 Council Members........................................................................................09 President’s Message ............................................................................ 10-11 News ........................................................................................................12-16 Bunchrew Farm Feature..................................................................... 20-23 News........................................................................................................ 24-29 Bowley Herd Feature............................................................................30-33 Virtual Simmental Show..................................................................... 36-47 News........................................................................................................ 50-52 Theberton Herd Feature..................................................................... 54-56 Top 20 Sires........................................................................................... 58-59 Golden Cow.................................................................................................60 News........................................................................................................ 62-63 Spotlight on Cumbria...........................................................................65-71

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Technical.................................................................................................76-87 Welston Herd Feature.........................................................................90-93 Type Classification.............................................................................94-102 Simmental Young Members..........................................................104-105 Hatch, Match & Celebrate.......................................................................106 Welcome to New Members....................................................................107 Farewell to Dear Friends.................................................................108-113 Sacombe Herd Feature................................................................... 118-121 50th Anniversary................................................................................ 123-147 Islavale Feature.................................................................................150-153 Regional Club Area Officers...................................................................154 Centre West Club Report........................................................................ 155 Cornwall Club Report.....................................................................156-159 East Anglian Simmental Club Report...................................................162

104

192

212

221

Midlands Club Report..............................................................................164 North East Club Report...................................................................166-167 North West Club Report..........................................................................168 NI Simmental Cattle Breeders’ Club Report ............................ 170-171 Scottish Simmental Club Report...................................................172-174 South East Simmental Club Report............................................. 176-177 South West Simmental Club Report............................................ 178-181 Welsh Simmental Club Report.....................................................182-183 Ballystrone Herd Feature................................................................188-189 Simmental NZ....................................................................................192-193 Irish Simmental.................................................................................194-197 American Simmental...................................................................... 198-200 Dansk Simmental............................................................................ 202-204 Canadian Simmental......................................................................206-209

Harbro Advertorial....................................................................................210 Fleckvieh Section.............................................................................212-218 2021 Sale Dates.........................................................................................220 Sales.....................................................................................................221-233 Suggested Names for 2021....................................................................236 Semen for Private Sale.............................................................................237 Promotional Goods..................................................................................238 Pedigree Bull Levy Semen (Royalty) Scheme...........................240-241 Membership Fees.............................................................................242-243 Advertisers Index.......................................................................................244 Application For Membership........................................................ 245-246

The Review 2020

2020

SIMMENTAL

SOCIETY STAFF

The Review

50TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

2020

Annual Review

Iain Kerr

Polly Goldie

iain@britishsimmental.co.uk

polly@britishsimmental.co.uk

Nicky Moreton

Kate Stephens

nicky@britishsimmental.co.uk

kate@britishsimmental.co.uk

No. 41

General: 02476 696513 Registrations: 0800 505 3954 Monday – Thursday: 9am – 5pm Friday: 9am – 3pm Email: information@britishsimmental.co.uk www.britishsimmental.co.uk British Simmental Cattle Society NAC Stoneleigh Park Warwickshire CV8 2LG Find us on social media @britishsimmental @britishsimms bscs2017

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Design & Printing Ghost Design

COUNCIL MEMBERS 2021 Mr Stewart Stronach, President - Scotland

Mr Andrew Clarke - Northern Ireland

Maisley, Keith, Banffshire, AB55 5QH Tel: 01542 882294 Mobile: 07779782777 Email: stewart@britishsimmental.co.uk

19 Breaghey Road, Tynan, Co Armagh, Northern Ireland BT60 4SU Tel: 02837568699 Mobile: 07756021706 Email: andrew@britishsimmental.co.uk

Mr Norman Robson, Vice President Northern Ireland

Mr Adrian Ivory - Scotland

106 Cogrey Road, Doagh, Ballyclare, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, BT39 0PX Tel: 07968 814182 Email: norman@britishsimmental.co.uk

Strathisla Farms, Moolies, Meigle, Blairgowrie, Perthshire, PH12 8 RF Tel: 01828640227 Mobile: 07711288346 Email: adrian@britishsimmental.co.uk

Mr John Moore, Chairman of Finance Northern Ireland

Mr Dafydd Jones - Wales

115 Church Road, Coolesker, Beragh, Co Tyrone, BT79 0SB, Tel: 02880 758453 Mobile: 07798 892404 Email: john@britishsimmental.co.uk

Mr Michael Barlow, World Simmental Federation Representative, - North West Four Oaks, Ulnes, Walton Lane, Nr Leyland, Lancashire PR26 8LT Tel: 01772 601403 Mobile: 07921 674041 Email: michaelb@britishsimmental.co.uk

Mr Michael Durno, Chairman of Shows and Sales North, - Scotland Auchorachan, Glenlivet, Ballindalloch, Banffshire, AB37 9DN Tel: 01807 590213 Mobile: 0771 846 7868 Email: michaeld@britishsimmental.co.uk

Mr Simon Key, Chairman of Shows and Sales South, - East Anglia Abbey Farm, Mundham, Norwich, NR14 6EL, Tel: 01508 528821 Mobile: 07843 277218 Email: simon@britishsimmental.co.uk

Mr Robin Boyd - Northern Ireland

Maesllymystn, Foel, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 0NX Tel: 01938 820231 Mobile:07717 683353 Email: dafydd@britishsimmental.co.uk

Mr Chris Martindale - Midlands Coedfa, Mount Bradford Lane, St Martins, Owestry, Shropshire, SY11 3HQ Tel: 01691 772266 Mobile: 07801 184368 Email: chris@britishsimmental.co.uk

Mr Richard Storer Smith - Midlands Spath Farm House, Ashbourne Road, Uttoxeter, Staffordshire ST14 5AP Tel: 01889 563200 Mobile: 07508 403333 Email: richard@britishsimmental.co.uk

Mr Kevin Thomas - Cornwall Huntsman Court, Crowgey Farm, Wendron, Helston, Cornwall, TR13 0NN Tel: 01326 341105 Mobile: 07792 660209 Email: kevin@britishsimmental.co.uk

Mr Barrie Wynter - Cornwall Bolankin Farm, Crows-An-Wra, St Buryan, Penzance, Cornwall, TR19 6HY Tel: 01736 810787 Mobile: 07590 501096 Email: barrie@britishsimmental.co.uk

Slievenagh Farm 78 Ballynafie Road, Portglenone, County Antrim. N Ireland, BT44 8DQ Tel: 028 2582 0070 Mobile: 07799 346784 Email: robin@britishsimmental.co.uk The Review 2020

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

n writing my first President’s Message to members can I say what a great honour and a privilege it is to have been elected to this position and in what is the breed and Society’s fiftieth anniversary year in the United Kingdom. I am passionate about this great breed and have worked with Simmental cattle for most of my life, so to now be entrusted as the Society’s 26th President is quite humbling, but I very much look forward to the term of office ahead. I would also like to pay a warm tribute to my predecessor Michael Barlow. Michael has worked tirelessly in his two-year term and has dealt with a few ‘challenges and changes’ faced in that time with professionalism and diplomacy, and always with the best interests of the breed and the Society to the forefront. It would have been so fitting and rewarding for Michael to have been President at the Society’s planned 50th anniversary events. However, I know that he will continue to be a great support to the Society’s Council, and I thank him for handing over the reins with the Society in good shape.

The 2020 year has of course been blighted by the Covid-19 pandemic and our first thoughts must be for the well-being of all and with our sympathies to those that have been affected. The pandemic did of course massively impact on the year’s pedigree sales trading and wiped out the summer and winter show programmes anticipated by so many. We must hope that good science and the vaccine programme can quickly see a return to some normality through the 2021 year. It was a huge disappointment that we had to postpone the 50th anniversary show and sale planned for 2020, and after much consideration, cancel the rearranged event in the year ahead. However, the Society is committed to investing in forward promotions of the breed around the UK and I am excited to see those plans roll out when circumstance allows. At the time of writing the trade for all classes of commercial and breeding cattle has been strong and bringing a level of confidence to

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suckler beef producers to invest in quality stock. Though a disrupted year, the 2020 sale demand for Simmental bulls from commercial producers and pedigree breeders was solid and it was encouraging to see the breed sell the biggest number of bulls at Stirling in October and to an increased average. On a weekly basis we have been circulating Simmental Market Briefs on Facebook showing the breed in action and it is clear that Simmental is performing well and profitably on a variety of systems and gaining reward at commercial markets around the UK. Pedigree registration numbers are at a similar level to recent years, but there is a little downward pressure facing Simmental, and all breed societies, and we must take sight of this and address it. Financially the Society is in good order with the resources to take aim at a body of core and progressive work. Maintaining the finances of the Society is hugely important but I also think it is an important time for structured investment in initiatives, promotions, and technical programmes that highlight and evidence the fantastic attributes and profitability of Simmental cattle to the commercial beef producer. In early discussion with Council the simple vision for the years ahead is very much to be commercially focussed and to grow the market share of the breed. If we can do that then, for pedigree breeders, the market for bulls and breeding females will develop accordingly. I repeat my previous comments to members. British Simmental has established itself as one of the most influential and profitable breeds in the beef industry and has all the attributes to be a maternal mainstay of the commercial suckler herd across the UK. Natural efficiency is a breed strength in so many ways. Simmentals are versatile; complement all breeds; are easy calving, maternal milky mothers; have longevity; produce beef from grass and are easy fleshing; and are fast growing with terrific weight for age. I’m hugely encouraged with the work reported within The Review that shows that Simmental is the UK’s

No.1 Continental Beef Breed for Age at Slaughter. This is an important trait that can define the breed and, coupled with its growth advantages, deliver a green beef product with increased profitability. In a competitive and challenging industry, the commercial farmer will invest in the types of animals that will leave the best return. It must be all of our aims to make the Simmental the commercial beef producers ‘go to breed’ for performance and profitability. If you breed the type of animal that buyers are looking for, I have no doubt you can get good returns with Simmentals in all geographies of the UK. As you’re aware it has also been a year of transition for the Society’s staff and we have been delighted to welcome Iain Kerr as the Society’s new General Manager. Iain brings a wealth of experience in the management of both a pedigree cattle and sheep society, and he also comes from a family background of Simmental cattle. Bringing a fresh approach, and with plenty of enthusiasm, we are delighted to have Iain on board and look forward to working with him in the coming years. The new team in place has also seen us welcome Kate Stephens, Polly Goldie, and Nicola Moreton who collectively bring a combination of youth and experience with directly related skills and connections with agriculture. Through the changeover and the added difficulties of working remotely, the Society’s work has been carried on both professionally and seamlessly with little disruption. In due course the new staff are eager to meet members at forward sales and events. Ongoing work sees the transition of the Society’s DNA services from Microsatellites to SNP technology. In addition to the core sire and parentage service, the move also brings forward potential to extend performance evaluation into genomic technologies. Beyond this, the year ahead will see the ‘old’ Simmental building be demolished and the relevant Society work being archived accordingly. Both of these respective tasks will take time and bring significant cost for the Society in the year but are necessary to progress. With no summer show season, the Society turned to a leading ‘Virtual’ show online and what a success it proved to be. Close on 750 animals entered over an eight-week period. It became compulsive weekly viewing, and it was great to see so many working Simmental cattle in extended geographies around the UK. My congratulations to everyone who entered and what a fantastic breed promotion, and a great way to keep members together and talking Simmentals in

tough times. The ‘Virtual’ show further evidenced the power of online marketing and the domestic and international reach it has. In the year we also launched the Simmental Market website, a simple but professional vehicle to bring buyers and sellers together and to promote pedigree Simmental cattle for sale on behalf of members. Again, it’s proven to be popular and effective and used by buyers to do their ‘research and homework’ prior to the sales. Increasing Simmental visibility and awareness has been a key goal in the year, and we’ve worked hard at building posts and profile on Facebook with commercially aimed messages on, at times, a daily basis. Websites, social media, and podcasts are such a cost-effective way to promote the breed to worldwide audiences and this will continue to be a principle means by which we extend the promotion of the breed. In my early months as President, it’s great to see what is a steady stream of new members joining the Society and from around the country. A warm welcome is extended to all and we wish you a long and successful future breeding Simmental cattle. With no little sadness I also have to reflect on those members who have passed in the year, many following distinguished involvement with the breed, and our thoughts and condolences are extended to the respective families. In closing can I say that I hope you enjoy this year’s Review. It’s a little different from previous issues with a number of breed promotional features from around the UK; a world perspective looking at the popularity of the breed in other countries and continents; and a technical section analysing aspects of breed performance and offering food for thought for the future. Adding in reflections on the performance at sales in 2020 it’s an issue packed with all things Simmental and showing plenty of activity in the year. Lastly, I hope that you enjoy the pictorial reflection of 50 years of British Simmental. It serves as a snapshot of the breed highlighting its many achievements and landmark moments and touching on just some of the individuals who have created such a rich breed history. From the first importation of 254 Simmentals to Lowestoft in 1970, to the breed’s position today as one of the UK’s leading beef breeds, it’s been an incredible journey. It’s time to celebrate and reflect on the first fifty years, as we now move on and open up a new golden chapter for this wonderful British Simmental breed. With kind regards Stewart Stronach

The Review 2020

NEWS

Omorga Kudos P

Omorga Kingston

ELEVEN BRITISH SIMMENTALS ARRIVE IN SWITZERLAND AND GERMANY IN AN EXPORT ‘FIRST’! • Three bulls and eight heifers exported from the Omorga and Hiltonstown herds • The export is a first for any pedigree cattle being exported to Switzerland from Northern Ireland.

n 1970 the first importation of 254 Simmentals to the UK from Switzerland arrived on UK shores at Lowestoft, Suffolk. At the same time, AI companies were visiting Germany to select sires for use in the UK. These were the first seeds sown that have since developed into Simmental being one of the most influential beef breeds in the UK beef industry over fifty years. The recognised quality and development of the breed in the UK resulted in an export of three pedigree bulls and eight heifers to the breed’s native homelands and breeders in Switzerland and Germany respectively. From the Omorga herd of Mr H J W & J C Moore, Omagh, Co Tyrone, one bull and three heifers have been purchased by Felix Tobler, Chapelle (Broye), Switzerland. A further Omorga bull and two heifers have gone to Christian Bunde, Drewitz, Germany, with one Omorga heifer being sold to Mario Walther, Frankfurt, Germany. One bull and two heifers from the Hiltonstown herd of Richard Rodgers, Portglenone, Co Antrim, have also been sold to Felix Tobler, Switzerland. In another first, the export marks the first time pedigree cattle of any breed have been exported to Switzerland from Northern Ireland. All eleven animals were exported and arrived safely at their new homes in May this year. The cattle were delivered through Andrew Ewing, Livestock Export hauliers, with the export taking five days in all including two twenty-four hour stops at Dumfries, and then again in Belgium. The interest in British Simmental was initiated through trips to the UK by Felix Tobler with his son Joel who was participating in Young Simmental Breeder stockjudging competitions. A growing interest at the same time by a German breeders group saw a combined group of some 30 breeders visit a number of Northern Irish herds in October of last year. A smaller follow up group returned in January to identify the cattle that they wanted and agreement was quickly reached. Extensive homework saw animals purchased to different criteria but a principle attraction was the choice and quality on offer, along 12

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Heifers arrived in Switzerland

with the entirely new bloodlines that could be introduced to the respective herds. Emphasis was placed on easy fleshed cattle that had shape, muscle, and milk combined with growth potential. There was also interest in polled cattle. Commenting, Richard Rodgers of the Hiltonstown herd said: “We are delighted to have achieved this export sale and throughout the process the Swiss and German breeders involved have been a pleasure to work with. They’ve purchased some good cattle and I trust that they will go on to do well for them.” Asked of the significance of this sale of British Simmentals back to their native homeland countries, and in what is the fiftieth year of the breed in the UK, Diane Moore of the Omorga herd said: “After fifty years of farming and breeding, British Simmental is a unique breed in its own right, full of quality and the demonstrable traits of economic importance that bring profitability to beef producers. You think Simmental and you think of efficient and profitable beef production from grass. The mix of muscle, growth, milk and maternal traits adds up to profit and I think there’s a bright future for British Simmental breeding and genetics in the UK and overseas markets.” The export sale came at a time when the Society was reporting a flurry of export enquiries for semen and genetics from mainland and Eastern Europe, North America, and Asia. Both the Hiltonstown and Omorga herds extended their thanks to the Ewing Family, Dumbretton Farm, Dumfries for arranging the transport, and DAERA Veterinary Service for all of their help.

NEWS

SIMMENTAL BULLS FROM THE NEWBIEMAINS AND AUCHORACHAN HERDS EXPORTED TO ITALY

he demand for British Simmental genetics abroad saw a further export of four young Simmental bulls to an AI centre in Italy. Three bulls from the Newbiemains herd of Jim & Patricia Goldie, Newbie Mains Farm, Annan, Dumfriesshire, along with a further bull from the Auchorachan herd of D&R Durno & Sons, Auchorachan, Glenlivet, Ballindalloch, Banffshire, were exported in late September.

Auchorachan Johnstone

The bulls have been purchased by the US based Horizon Genetics and, following the first collection, the semen is destined for use in the US market with further collections destined for China. Having initially seen videos and pictures of British Simmentals online and through social media, representatives of Horizon genetics then came to view stock at farms in England and Scotland last year. Initially the idea had been to source embryos but having seen the quality of the animals firsthand, the decision was taken to purchase an initial selection of young bulls. Commenting on the criteria for selecting the bulls, Jim Goldie said: “Horizon were very much looking for strong, beefy type Simmentals that were very correct, had plenty of length, and were from good families. Colourings and markings were important, with the bulls having to have white faces, and there were also strict health requirements.” The three Newbiemains bulls are all by different sires. Newbiemains Jax is by the homebred Newbiemains Golden Eye; Newbiemains Kiddo is by Woodhall Fantastic; with Newbiemains Knightstone being

Newbiemains Jax

the first bull the herd has sold by herd sire Moorglen Hillbilly. Auchorachan Johnstone, September 2018 born, is by Team Fergus 14 EX91 and is out of Auchorachan Faye VG 89. Speaking of the market potential, Michael Durno said, “We hope these bulls go on to do well and we are delighted that Horizon Genetics are already considering further bulls

moving into the 2021 year.” Both breeders endorsed the power of advertising good quality stock online and through social media with pictures and videos, and said that the visibility really did bring worldwide opportunities in what was a very competitive marketplace. In further commenting, Jim

Goldie went on to say: “This has been an exciting challenge and learning experience, and it has opened a door for UK genetics into significant markets like China and US. We’re hopeful these boys can do a sterling job for promoting British Simmental worldwide which could be great for the breed in the UK going forward.”

The Review 2020

NEWS

BRITISH SIMMENTAL EMBRYOS EXPORTED TO AUSTRALIA • 32 embryos from the Kilbride Farm herd exported to New South Wales

n another sizeable pedigree Simmental export, 32 embryos from the noted Kilbride Farm herd of WH Robson & Sons, Ballyclare, Northern Ireland, were exported to Australia and the Knox Farms Simmental Fleckvieh herd of Jeff & Robbie Knox, ‘Kokomo’, near Goulbourn, New South Wales in October.

Kilbride Farm Gina 26F

With an interest in both horned and polled cattle, and liking the type of cattle seen on the Kilbride Farm Facebook and Instagram posts, Jeff Knox originally contacted the Robsons to enquire about importing semen from the herd’s homozygous polled stock bull Kilbride Farm Hans PP. With the semen not qualified for export to Australia, some further research and discussion led to the collection and sale of the embryos. Through analysis of pictures, pedigrees, and performance information of many of the herd’s cows, Mr Knox particularly liked the daughters of the bull Crugmelyn Brenin and picked out Kilbride Farm Gina 26F and Kilbride Farm Eunice 206G. Kilbride Farm Kells, a Sneumgaard Imperator PP son out of Kilbride Farm Gina 26F, finished second in the young bull class of the Society’s 2020 Virtual Show and was subsequently sold to the pedigree Kilcorn herd of Mr M Hamill, Portadown. Kilbride Farm Eunice 206G is described as ‘a massive cow weighing 1090kg’ with a stated aim of Mr Knox being to introduce more size into his herd. Previously her full brother Kilbride Farm Digby, sold for 11,500gns in Stirling. In total, 32 embryos were collected in two flushes by Parklands Veterinary Group who also looked after the administration and paperwork of the export to Australia. The bull Kilbride Farm Hans PP, where the Knox’s interest was first initiated, was used for all of the flushes. Kilbride Farm Hans PP is noted for producing easy calved, fast growing cattle which are predominantly red, and with red eye patches. These traits and characteristics are sought after and preferred in Australia. Semen from both Kilbride Farm Hans PP, and his sire Sneumgaard Imperator PP has been sold widely across

Kilbride Farm Hans PP

Europe. Whilst the Robsons have exported semen previously to Australia, the sale of embryos to Australia is a first and a new market for these genetics. Commenting on the sale, Michael Robson said: “We are delighted with the sale of Kilbride Farm pedigree Simmental genetics to Australia. Jeff Knox was looking for polled genetics, pedigree, and performance figures, combined with the typical Simmental attributes of growth potential, milk, easy calving and breed character. We will be keeping in touch and look forward to see how the resulting progeny do in due course.” The embryos are due to be implanted in early December and some further females are already being considered for potential flushes and export next year. Established in 1971 the highly regarded Kilbride Farm pedigree Simmental herd sees 90 -100 calves born each year and has been a prolific seller of Simmental bulls, females, and genetics over the years to both domestic and international markets.

Advertise your animals for sale online today! View all animals available for sale, including pictures, links to their pedigrees, any accompanying notes, and the contact details of the owner breeders.

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NEWS

FOLE NASHVILLE SEMEN HEADS DOWN UNDER

emen from the Fole Simmental herd, stored at UK Sire Services on behalf of Staffordshire breeder Joe Ede, was exported to Australia in early 2020.

Fole Nashville

Fole Nashville semen was recommended to the Australian purchaser owing to his credentials for easy-calving and easy-breeding. Joe Ede, who started his Fole Simmentals herd of pedigree cattle in 1988, commented: “I’m delighted to be exporting Fole Nashville’s easy-calving breeding line to Australia. I’ve been passionate about advancing UK Simmental breeding lines for many years and very much hope and expect that Fole Nashville semen will go on and do well”. Born in 2002, Fole Nashville descends from a high-quality breeding line. His sire (Blackford Falcon) features amongst the very top performance figures for Ease of Calving, and has done for some 10 consecutive years. Fetching the top price of all Simmentals entered at the 1996 Perth Bull Sales, Blackford Falcon was purchased by Joe Ede for 13,000 Guineas. As well as exporting his semen to Denmark, to date, 48 pedigree Simmental herds across the UK have also introduced his breeding line into their livestock. Meanwhile, Fole Nashville’s Dam, Fole Hilary, was similarly

recognised for her genetic lineage, being named in the UK Simmental Top 100 Cow List. Elite Performance Cows also run in the family. A full sister to Fole Nashville - Fole Rachel - is registered as an Elite Performance Cow, as is one of her daughters, Fole Rachel 6th. Joe also successfully entered two of Fole Nashville’s sons at separate Royal Welsh Shows: Fole Telstar won his Class in 2007 and in 2009 Fole Wyoming was awarded Simmental ‘Male Champion’ as well as Simmental ‘Overall Reserve Champion’.

HEATHBROW

POLLED SIMMENTALS

25 years of constructive breeding resulting in strong cow families that have produced 32 Excellent and 24 VG cows. We have also won 20 Interbreed and 45 Breed Championships.

Heathbrow Important (P) EX93 European Simmental of the year 2019 – now stock bull at Blackford

Sire – Heathbrow Grandslam (P) EX 93 Dam – Heathbrow Sarah’s Elegance EX 92

Heathbrow Grandslam semen available Polled youngstock for sale | High Health Status | Visitors Always Welcome David & Lesley Sapsed T: 07836782184 E: highheath@btinternet.com The Review 2020

NEWS

CHESTERMANN SIMMENTAL HEIFERS IN EXPORT SALE TO REPUBLIC OF IRELAND

n May, the Chestermann Simmental herd of Messrs N&N Gwynne, Castlewigg Farm, Newton Stewart, secured a private sale of two pedigree maiden heifers for export to the Republic of Ireland. Both heifers were purchased by Mr. Declan Rouse as foundation females for his new and establishing Enniscrone pedigree herd in Enniscrone, Co. Sligo.

Farm Wick daughter, Chestermann Wick Stella.

Chestermann Data Stella 3, a June 2018 born heifer is by the herd sire Overhill House Data 12 and is out of Chestermann Ringleader Stella. Overhill House Data 12, bred by Richard McCulloch, West Lothian, is a past Junior Male Champion at the Royal Highland Show and has also bred a first prize winner for the Chestermann herd at the 2019 Scottish Simmental National Show at Kelso.

Commenting, he said, “Both of these heifers carry a combination of femininity, style, and depth of breeding and I’m delighted to have bought them for my herd.”

The second heifer to be sold, the October 2018 born Chestermann Empire Stella 2, is by Sterling Empire 13, and is out of the Kilbride

Chestermann Data Stella 3

The purchaser, Mr Rouse first saw videos of the heifers on the then newly launched Simmental Market (www.simmentalmarket.co.uk), a website created by the British Simmental Cattle Society to promote Simmental stock and bring buyers and sellers together, during the ongoing Covid-19 situation.

Chestermann Empire Stella 2

The sale of these heifers follows hard on the heels of a previous export sale from the Chestermann herd to Ireland in February this year when the April 2018 born heifer Chestermann Data Mali 3, another Overhill House Data 12 daughter sold to the Dripsey Herd of Mr & Mrs Cotter, Co. Cork after they had seen her on a herd visit.

KILLIWORGIE SIMMENTAL HEIFERS HEAD TO NORTHERN AND SOUTHERN IRELAND

n May, the Killiworgie Simmental herd of Steve & Gill Gummow, Higher Killiworgie Farm, Newquay, Cornwall sold two pedigree heifers to buyers in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland respectively. First up, Killiworgie Gabbys Joy has sold to the Innisrooske herd of Mr Michael Reihill, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. Entirely homebred this April 2018 born heifer is by Killiworgie Hornblower 16, and is out of Killiworgie Gabby, a Killiworgie Emperor 13 daughter. A past Male Champion at the Royal Cornwall Show, the only occasion on which he was shown, Killiworgie Hornblower was put to one cow before being sold privately, with Killiworgie Gabbys Joy being the resulting calf. Killiworgie Gabbys Joy features some Irish breeding in the pedigree with the Southern Irish bull Seaview Prince Charming on the sire side and the N Irish bred Ballinalare Farm Buttercup 2nd being on the dam line. Heading further south is Killiworgie Mirandas Jade who was sold to Mr Maurice Darcy for his Boyerstown herd in Navan, Co. Meath, Republic of Ireland. This February 2018 born heifer is by the Auchorachan Wizard sired Killiworgie Emperor 13 and is out of Boars Head Miranda EX 90. Killiworgie Mirandas Jade was sold in calf to Dinton Imperial, a son of Bel Dhu Capercaillie 11. A bull with a strong show record, and a prolific stock bull in the herd, Killiworgie Emperor 13 has sired some 60 registered Killiworgie pedigree calves. The bull’s mother Ballinalare Farm Buttercup 2nd was purchased at sale from the breeder Mr J & Mr A Wilson, Newry, County Down whilst carrying what was to be Killiworgie Emperor 13. 16

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Killiworgie Mirandas Jade

These respective sales to Ireland came about after both animals had been seen on the online Simmental Market (www.simmentalmarket. co.uk) which has been set up by the British Simmental Cattle Society to promote breeders’ stock available for sale during the ongoing Covid-19 situation. Commenting on the sales for the Killiworgie herd which was established in 1998 and comprises of twenty breeding females, Gill Gummow said: “Beyond them seeing the animals online we spoke on the telephone to the breeders about the heifers, discussed their breeding, and forwarded further pictures and videos. We are delighted to have made these sales and very much look forward to seeing these heifers go on to do well for their new owners.”

Kurlycoat Livestock Email: kurlycoatlivestock@outlook.com Tel: 07712463354

STERLING GINO (and his sisters)

Sterling Barcadi Hawaii Sold £28,000

Advert

Sterling Hope Sold £5,500 to Kurlycoat Herd

Sterling Gigi Sold £4,500

£10 a straw. Plus Transport. (UK Only)

STERLING GINO was purchased for the Kurlycoat Herd in 2017, then sold

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Jake Gregory Kerling Farm, Chacewater, Truro, Cornwall TR4 8LH The Review 2020

Where Strong NEWBIE Cow Families M A I N S SIMMENTALS Matter After 5 years of classifying at Newbiemains over 60 cows are classiﬁed Excellent and in excess of 100 cows are classiﬁed VG. This shows consistency throughout the herd.

Member of

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Newbiemains Jax One of 3 bulls we exported to Italy where semen is destined for USA and China’.

Jim & Patricia Goldie Newbie Mains Farm Annan, Dumfriesshire DG12 5QY

TEL: 01461 205135 / 07974 122938 / Niall: 07753 260253 EMAIL: jmjgoldie@aol.com

‘NOTHING TO BEAT’ HI-HEALTH, MATERNAL SIMMENTALS AT BUNCHREW FARM, INVERNESS The Review features Karen Young, and her son Calum, Bunchrew Farm, Inverness, where the Simmental breed is the long-term backbone of a 150-cow suckler herd producing quality bulling heifers and yearling store cattle.

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here is a place for all breeds of beef cattle but when it comes to easy calving, hi-health and good maternal characteristics, there is nothing to beat the Simmental according to one farming family from Inverness. The dual-purpose breed has been the backbone of the Young family’s successful commercial beef enterprise at Bunchrew Farm, where the late Allan Young and his wife Karen, moved north from the Central Belt to take on the tenancy of the unit in 1987. Having relied upon the Simmental to produce home-bred replacements and easy fleshing progeny for more than 30 years, the family has built up a strong reputation for selling top-quality bulling heifers and yearling store cattle through Dingwall and Highland Marts. “Simmental cattle have been with us since the beginning and Allan was always extremely passionate about the breed,” began Karen, who now farms in partnership with son Calum, after the passing of Allan in 2017. “Our first interaction with the breed was in the early 1980s when we AI’d a bought in pure Simmental cow to Solway Adonis and got a bull calf which went on to breed a lot of our foundation stock. “Since then, the Simmental has continued to suit our system very well and we just can’t see past the breed. The cows are great mothers, have plenty of milk and a good temperament, with the ability to be crossed to any other breed to produce easy fleshing progeny.”

The family farm 400 acres of mainly grassland between Bunchrew and another neighbouring unit, which rises from the southern shoreline of the Beauly Firth, right up to 600ft above sea level. Spring barley is grown for home use and around 190 Mule ewe lambs are bought in each year for selling the following season as gimmers.

…we just can’t see past the (Simmental) breed. The cows are great mothers, have plenty of milk and a good temperament, with the ability to be crossed to any other breed to produce easy fleshing progeny.” Although successful sheep producers in years gone by, it’s the 150-strong cow suckler herd which has taken centre stage at Bunchrew, with Calum equally as passionate about the Simmental breed as his late father was. He said: “Simmentals tick all the boxes for us in terms of health status and fertility, especially when it comes to retaining a closed herd. The cows are easy handled and have few problems at calving time which is a huge benefit when it’s just me working with the cattle or if I’m away and mum is watching over them.”

The Review 2020

The hi-health, BVD and Johnes accredited herd is split calving, with 100 cows calving throughout March and April, and the remainder calving from September onwards.

In the past, 18-month-old bulling heifers sold at Dingwall Mart in the spring have peaked at £1800 and regularly average above the £1200 mark, with many others sold at £1300 and £1400.

Although having bred pedigrees in years gone by, the family aim to introduce hybrid vigour in the first cross by using the Salers over all heifers.

They also sell to repeat buyers each year, some of which have been buying from the family since they started selling hi-health and BVD accredited bulling heifers many years ago.

The majority of second calved cows going back to the Simmental to breed home-bred replacements which calve down at 2.5 years of age.

Yearling steers from Bunchrew also sell well through the store ring at Dingwall, where they often level just shy of £1000 per head at roughly 430kg.

All autumn calving cows are bulled to the Simmental, with a selection of cows from both herds bulled to the red AberdeenAngus, again to introduce a bit more hybrid vigour.

The spring-born calves are introduced to creep feed at five months of age and are introduced to barley bruise, wheat dark grains, Norvite NEO Pro and pit silage when weaned in November.

“We started using the Aberdeen-Angus three years ago and went for the red option rather than the black so that we would still have the dark red markings on our cows,” explained Karen.

All bull calves are sold through Dingwall in February and March, with a small selection of the spring-born heifers also sold as yearlings to give buyers the option to have replacements calving at two-yearsold.

“Although we still keep the odd pure-bred female and in years gone by, have kept a small pedigree herd, we find we are too high up to be running cows entirely pure and need the all-important hybrid vigour. “We also have high populations of ticks on our ground and because all the stock is home-bred, they are acclimatised at a young age.” Other terminal sires have been used successfully at Bunchrew, including the British Blue, which produced some cracking heifers for home use and for selling through the ring or privately. “Dad built up a good market for the Simmental cross British Blue heifers and often sold the best of them privately to returned buyers who were looking for a bit more shape,” said Calum. “As the years have gone on, demand has changed, with producers in our area looking for ¾ Simmental herd replacements with plenty milk and big frames.”

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Autumn-born calves are on creep feed from December onwards, with the best of them sold straight off their mothers the following July at 10-months-old. In the past, they have averaged £940 per head or 247p per kg to average 385kg. “We aim to sell 25 calves straight off their mothers at the anniversary sale at Dingwall each year, with the remainder sold at the turn of the year,” said Calum, pointing out that autumn calving cows are dry cow tubed to avoid mastitis problems. “Of all the autumn-born bullocks born last year, only two were not strong enough to be sold this July so that definitely demonstrates the ability the Simmental has to produce suckled calves with good growth rates.”

Around 25 replacements are kept on each year and are selected on their mother’s performance, temperament, feet and size. Both Karen and Calum praised the breed’s longevity, with one of the oldest cows on the farm still producing at 15-years-old. Calum said: “Not only do Simmental cows last long but they still leave you a bit of money at the end of the day as one of the most recent cull cows weighed 915kg and sold for £1260.” The majority of cows are housed inside throughout the winter, with the autumn herd also brought inside for calving for ease of management at harvest time but turned outside as soon as possible. Calving cameras have been a huge help to Karen and Calum, as has the regular weighing of all calves on a regular basis as part of the Beef Efficiency Scheme. Allan always enjoyed a trip to Stirling Bull Sales, where he often came home with stock bulls backed with tremendous bloodlines which went on and worked extremely well in the commercial herd. Noted stock bulls have been purchased over the years including

Wellhouse Winston (the sire of the majority of cows in the herd today), Cloford Toby, Wellhouse Millenium, Innerwick Troy, Kersknowe Casanova and the 6500gns Kyleston Excalabur. In more recent years, stock bulls have been purchased privately from the Munro family’s hi-health Wellhouse herd at Beauly, as have two pure bred heifers which were AI’d to Samark Superman to produce one of the stock bulls used on the herd today. “It’s a huge advantage being able to buy stock bulls off farm, especially when they’re bred from a local herd and you can see the mothers in the flesh,” commented Calum. “We look to buy big, powerful bulls that are good on their feet and legs, and pay more attention to the breeding, rather than the figures. Health status is equally as important for us, as apart from the two heifers we purchased from Wellhouse, bulls are the only cattle we bring on to the farm.” At the time of writing, the mother and son duo were eagerly awaiting the completion of a new purpose-built bull shed and pens to house the stock bulls in time for this winter.

The Review 2020

NEWS

7000GNS RANFURLY BEAUTY 13TH K2 LEADS STRONG SIMMENTAL DEMAND AT RANFURLY & BALLINALARE SALE • Ranfurly Beauty 13th K2 tops the trade at 7000gns • Eleven lots make 4000gns and more • 18 Ranfurly animals average £4243.75 • Top price from Ballinalare herd makes 4900gns • Animals sold to Scotland, England, Wales, Republic of Ireland, & N Ireland

he much anticipated third production sale from the Ranfurly and Ballinalare pedigree Simmental herds, held on Friday 4th September at Dungannon Farmers Mart, met with a strong demand and a healthy trade that saw a top price of 7000gns, and further prices of 5600gns, 5500gns, 5200gns. In all eleven lots from the forty-three sold made 4000gns or more. The sale attracted interest from all over the UK and Ireland with animals selling to Scotland, England, Wales, Republic of Ireland, and Northern Ireland. Many of the lots were sold through online bidding in addition to the registered audience at ringside. Taking the top price at 7000gns for Mr WD & JD Hazelton, Cohannon House, Dungannon, Co Tyrone, was the January 2019 born heifer Ranfurly Beauty 13th K2. By Grinalta’s Excel 8N, she is out of Ranfurly Beauty 8th F9 (ET). Beauty’s dam is a genetic full sister to Curaheen Tyson, Vio and Bandit, the same cow family as the 16,500gns Beauty 5th C4. Heading over to Scotland this heifer was purchased by Mr WS Stronach for his well-known Islavale herd at Berryleys Farm, Grange, Keith, Banffshire. Commenting on his purchase Stewart Stronach, who had travelled over to N Ireland the previous week to see the Ranfurly cattle before bidding online on sale day, said: “I really liked what I saw across all of the sale cattle, they were ready for the sale, not over done, and looking 100%. Ranfurly Beauty 13th K2 is just our style of heifer with a lot of potential for the future. She brings something different in the bloodlines for us to try being by the Canadian bull and combines that with proven breeding in the dam line.” The Islavale herd presently comprises of 150 pedigree breeding females run with 50 commercial Simmental cows. The Ranfurly herd put forward eighteen lots on the day which averaged a terrific £4243.75. Founded in 1971 the Ranfurly herd has consistently been a top performing pedigree Simmental herd both within the sale and show ring. Offering a high health status and a depth of breeding, the herd presently comprises of seventeen cows all of which are classified as excellent or very good. Commenting after the sale a delighted David Hazelton said: “We are extremely pleased with the sale and trust that the cattle go on to do well for their new owners. Over the years we’ve placed emphasis on proven cow families being mated to proven bulls. Focusing on the market place we are trying to breed cattle that are relevant to both the pedigree breeder and commercial producer. To do this we’ve used performance recording and the classification scheme as helpful tools which has worked to advantage.” The day’s second top price was the 5600gns paid for the maiden heifer Ranfurly Weikel 30th K1. January 2019 born this heifer, which was a junior heifer class winner at the NI Simmental National Show at Omagh in 2019, is by Cleenagh Flasher and is out of Ranfurly Weikel 18th H2. Another to go over the water, this animal was purchased by 24

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Ranfurly Beauty 13th K2 7000gns

Ranfurly Weikel 30th K1 5600gns

B & E Chadwick for their Chadston pedigree herd at The Hedgerows, Hilton, Derby. From the same breeding line Ranfurly Weikel 27th J16 sold for 5500gns to M Quinn, Dunamore Road, Cookstown, Co Tyrone. A rising two year old, this heifer is by Team Celtic 11 and is out of Ranfurly Weikel 4th W20 whose previous progeny had sold to 9100gns at the herd’s first production sale. Ranfurly Weikel 27th J16 carried an impressive Milk figure of +21 and was sold PD’d in calf to Curaheen Bandit. The very last lot in the ring, Ranfurly Weikel 38th L5, confirmed the day’s strong trade when making 5200gns. January 2020 born, this heifer calf is by Carnkern Titan and out of the noted South Park King Kong Weikel 2nd EX 93. Combining pedigree and performance, Weikel 38th L5 is a full sister to Ranfurly Formula One, Supreme

NEWS

Ranfurly Weikel 27 J16 5500gns

Ranfurly Weikel 38th 5200gns

Champion at Stirling October 2016, who sold for 15000gns. Purchasing this calf was SP McDonald who runs the pedigree Coolcran herd at Coolcran, Tempo, Co Fermanagh.

D14 EX 92. Again with a strong Milk figure of +17, Ranfurly Kleeb 41st J14 was bought by Mr JN Glasgow for his Bridgewater Farm herd at Creevagh Road, Cookstown, Co Tyrone.

The top price in the Ballinalare herd offering from Mr J & Mr A Wilson, Dorans Hill, Newry, Co. Down, was the 4900gns paid for Bannhill Farm Jinx. April 2018 born this heifer, scanned in calf to Rabawn Ernie, is by the noted Raceview King, and is out of Ballinalare Farm Fleur, an Auchorachan Wizard daughter. This calf was snapped up by Mr DG Rooney for their Veaghmore pedigree herd at Ballymartin, Newry, Co Down. The second top price from the Wilson’s offering was the 4400gns paid for the September 2018 born Bannhill Farm Juliet. This heifer, by Kilbride Farm Bantry and out of Ballinalare Farm Fuscia, was sold scanned in calf to the noted Camus Brandy. Heading to the Republic of Ireland, this heifer was bought by G Neenan, Coolnafarna, Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo.

The good trade for maiden heifers continued with the April 2019 born Ranfurly Weikel 32nd K10 making 4600gns when selling to the Lisglass herd of JL & CJ Weatherup, Irish Hill, Ballyclare, Co Antrim. By Anatrim Bodybuilder this heifer is out of Ranfurly Weikel 20th H6 VG, making her the first granddaughter of South Park King Kong Weikel 2nd EX93 to be sold.

At 4800gns was the September 2018 born Ranfurly Kleeb 41 J14. With a full brother having previously sold at Stirling for 6500gns, this heifer is another by Team Celtic 11 and is out of Ranfurly Kleeb 32nd st

The very next lot, and from similar breeding, Ranfurly Weikel 34th K12 sold for 4500gns. This ET calf is by Salisbury Challenger and out of the noted South Park King Kong Weikel 2nd EX93. Buying this lot was W McKittrick, Ternagreeve Road, Loughgall. Averages: Ranfurly Herd: 18 animals averaged £4243.75 Ballinalare Herd: 25 animals averaged £2614.50 Sale gross: £141,750

5800GNS CORSKIE KING TOPS SIMMENTAL TRADE AT ANM’S ONLINE EVENING SALE

Auchorachan Kevin

Aultmore Knockout

Corskie King

he January 2019 born Corskie King 19, from from Mr WJ &J Green, Garmouth, Fochabers topped the Simmental trade at Aberdeen & Northern Marts online sale held on Monday 5th October, when selling for 5800gns. Corskie King 19 is a heifer’s calf being out of Corskie Highness VG 86, a Bel Dhu Capercaillie daughter, and is sired by Auchorachan Farmer 14.

out of the Banwy Wonderboy daughter Drumpark Rosebud 3rd.

The January 2019 born Aultmore Knockout 19, from Wm Patterson & Son, Upper Forgie, Aultmore, Keith, took the second top price when selling for 5500gns. This bull is by Auchorachan ACDC 09 9, and is

Other prices included: 4500gns Glenlossie Jimmy 18 4200gns Garmouth Knightrider

Selling at 5,000gns was Auchorachan Kevin 19 from D & R Durno & Sons, Glenlivet, Ballindalloch. This February born bull is by the imported sire Auroch Hudson (P), and is out of the homebred Auchorachan Hilly 6 VG 87.

The Review 2020

NEWS

Incheoch Keystone £6200

Incheoch Kincaid £4600

£6200 INCHEOCH KEYSTONE LEADS THE SIMMENTAL TRADE AT THE ‘WORKING GENES’ SALE • Six Simmental bulls average £4433

he £6200 pedigree Simmental bull Incheoch Keystone led a terrific commercial trade at the Working Genes Sale for Neil & Debbie McGowan, Incheoch Farms, Alyth, Blairgowrie on 3rd September. Held virtually this year due to the Covid-19 situation, the sale was conducted entirely online and through ‘Yourbid’, a website system based in New Zealand. This was the 13th staging of the Working Genes Sale of shearling rams and within that, the 3rd staging of a bull sale. The online sale met with a ram record £5000 price paid, record averages for the 97 rams sold, and a very healthy average of £4433 for the six Simmental bulls sold! The 13 bulls sold in all, many of which hadn’t been seen in the flesh by the buyers, included both Angus and Luing offerings. The Simmental leader, Incheoch Keystone, is a January 2019 born homozygous polled bull by Gibby’s Real Deal and out of Incheoch Polarine H3 (P), a daughter of Dirnanean Sioux S10P who bred a previous stock sire, Dirnanean Apostle. Incheoch Keystone was bought by John Ritchie, Dunning, Perthshire, to cross with Saler x cows to breed replacements.

Incheoch Kincaid, also homozygous polled and by BBN Polled Century, sold at £4600 to Ian McKie of Lanton Estate in Northumberland to run with Luing cows. Incheoch Kelly, by Auroch Deuter, a further homozygous polled bull, went at £3,800 to run with Luing cows with Angus and Ewan McCall, Culmailly, Golspie. Incheoch Kidson, just over 15 months on sale day, by Dirnanean Emerald and out of an Apostle dam, sold at £4000 to the James Hutton Institute, Glensaugh, Fettercairn again to run with Luings. Two further Simmentals are off to commercial herds in the Scottish Borders. Commenting within the sale catalogue, Neil McGowan said: “The Incheoch Simmental herd of 40 - mostly polled - cows is based on the most functional cow families from the previous ‘Dirnanean’ herd. Calving ease, structural soundness for longevity and a calm, maternal character have always been a priority - we’ve turned up the pressure on lower mature weight, ease of fleshing and fertility in order to find you sires that will leave lower maintenance, regular calving, long lasting daughters...and a steer with do-ability and a good top.”

AVERAGES: 6 Simmental Bulls £4433 13 Bulls (in all) £4207.69

HEYWOOD SIMMENTAL DISPERSAL TOPS AT 5000GNS

he Dispersal Sale of the Heywood herd in December at Sedgemoor brought to an end a lifetime of breeding for David Barker and one of the most renowned herd names in the Simmental herdbook. The sale saw a top call of 5000gns for the much admired calved heifer ‘Heywood Empress 10th’, who goes back to the Golden Show Cow Stuartslaw Melody, along with her October born heifer calf Empress 11th – the very last Heywood Simmental to be born. This outfit was bought by the Chard herd of Laura French, Greenacres, Chard, Somerset. The maiden heifer from the famous Star Fanny line sold for 2800gns to the Palk family, Stantor herd of Paignton Devon. Another cow from the Fantastic family due again in April to Grandslam and her May bull calf sold for a combined total of 2800gns. The 14 month old bull calf Heywood Kracker by Dinton Nautical from the Empress line sold for 2300gns to John May, Priorton herd. 26

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AVERAGES: 2 Bulls £2,152.50; 5 Cows & Calves £2,851.80; 2 Served Heifers £1,653.75; 3 Maiden Heifers £2,170.00

NEWS

IRISH ALL-BREEDS RECORD PRICED €52,000 SIMMENTAL HEADS TO THE POPES HERD, PRESTON, LANCASHIRE

t was a record-breaking day on Saturday 24th October 2020, when the Simmental bull Clonagh Lucky Explorer sold for an all-breeds record price of €52,000 (£47,285) at the Irish Simmental Cattle Society’s Roscommon Sale. Heading to the UK, this May 2019 born bull, bred by Garett Behan, Clonagowan, Ballyfin, Portlaoise, Co Laois, was purchased by JH&VG Wood, Popes Farm, Clitheroe Road, Dutton, Preston, Lancs for their noted Popes pedigree herd. Packed full of British Simmental genetics Clonagh Lucky Explorer, described by Garett Behan as the best bull ever bred at Clonagh, is by Manor Park Hansome 16, a Slievenagh Extra Special 13 son. He is out of Clonagh Dora the Explorer, a Banwy T Rex daughter, which features both Sterling and Skerrington breeding. The €52,000 was double the previous Irish Simmental record price and is an all-breeds Irish record price.

Speaking of their record priced purchase, and with the bull safely at Popes Farm soon after the sale, Vicki Wood said: “This is a very special bull that we have watched since he was a calf. It’s not often you get the chance of a bull with the balance of quality and outstanding proven bloodlines that he brings and we’re delighted to have bought him. He’s a big investment in the future and just has that x-factor that we’ve been looking for to take the herd forward to a new level.” Bringing quality, width, and soft fleshing the Woods feel that the Clonagh bull will fit well with their 50-cow herd adding that he introduces different breeding through his bloodlines. For good measure the Woods also purchased the second highest bull price in the sale, Clonagh Latin Lover at €6800, and also from the Behans. Another May `19 born bull Latin Lover was also by Manor Park Hansome and out of another National Livestock champion Clonagh Darling Eyes.

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The Review 2020

NEWS

‘VINTAGE’ HEPPLEWHITE CHAMPAGNE HIGHLIGHTS THE LONGEVITY, PRODUCTIVITY, AND VALUE IN SIMMENTAL BREEDING FEMALES

epplewhite Champagne 11, a 16-yearold pedigree Simmental cow from John and June Trafford, Hepplewhite herd, Cockermouth, Cumbria, has proven to be a ‘vintage’ Simmental breeding female having calved her 14th pedigree calf in June this year. Sired by Sacombe Wishfull Thinking, and out of Hepplewhite Champagne 10th, Hepplewhite Champagne 11 has had a very balanced 7 heifers and 7 bulls over 13 calvings, including a set of twins. Her most recent calf, a heifer calf Hepplewhite Champagne 36th is by the polled bull Rooklea Hunter 16 and was born on the 24th June.

All fourteen calves have been born unassisted, and all have been reared by mum who, on every occasion has been quick to get back in calf within a couple of months. John has kept and sold some of the progeny. Of the six female calves born, not including this years, four have been retained for breeding and who have themselves gone on to have a further 23 calves registered in the British Simmental Herdbook. There are now four generations of this line in the herd, including Great grandmother, Grandmother, Mother, and Daughter. The herd has now got to Hepplewhite Champagne 36 in this Champagne line which was started in 1980. The original Hepplewhite Champagne is by the prolific AI sire Scottish Neff and is out of Henna which is one of the three original Simmentals John imported in 1973.

• Great milking and mothering ability with mum easily able to rear all fourteen calves • Producing quality breeding females, retaining these same traits and genetics, and which has seen a further 23 calves registered in the herdbook. • Increased calf performance from a mature cow. • Producing in demand bulls for commercial breeding that have met a ready market.

The bulls Hepplewhite Champagne 11 has produced have mainly been sold for commercial breeding and have met with a ready commercial demand, but John says Hepplewhite Champagne 11’s strength as a breeding cow has been the quality of breeding females that she has produced.

John and June Trafford joined the British Simmental Cattle Society in 1971, putting them amongst the earliest members of the Society, and they imported their first animals in 1973. They had previously used Ayrshire cows for milking, and introduced Simmentals originally as a dual purpose breed to produce more of a beef animal before eventually concentrating on pure bred Simmentals as a beef animal. John first took his bulls to Perth in 1977 and has been attending the Perth and Stirling sales ever since and ‘having not missed many’! A strong affinity to the breed and a highly respected breeder, John has had two spells on BSCS Council and has judged Simmentals at a number of shows, including the Great Yorkshire, Royal Bath and West, and Royal Cornwall amongst others. Looking back on the breed’s development in the UK John believes the Simmental 1978 event was a real pivotal platform for the breed’s recognition in the UK industry as a top line beef breed.

So what a package of longevity, productivity and profit this all adds up to. Let’s just look at the traits and economics of what this one cow has added up to: • Fantastic longevity has seen fourteen calves from thirteen calvings • Terrific fertility producing a calf every year and easily got back in calf. • Extremely easy calving with no assistance required for any calvings

All of this, and at the end of a highly productive working life, a cull value that could be reasonably be expected to be around £1000£1200. Fantastic profit and performance for a Simmental female and typical of the maternal traits of the breed!

Advertise your animals for sale online today! View all animals available for sale, including pictures, links to their pedigrees, any accompanying notes, and the contact details of the owner breeders.

www.simmentalmarket.co.uk 28

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NEWS

TRIPLET SIMMENTAL BULL CALVES BORN IN THE WROXALL HERD!

t’s nice to go out in a morning and find an unexpected set of triplet pedigree Simmental bull calves born with no assistance, and doing well!

That was the lovely bonus awaiting the Wroxall team of Dan and Rob Evans, Abbey Farm, Wroxall, Warwick on Thursday morning, 16th September. Entirely homebred, the triplet calves got by natural service are out of Wroxall India Patience, a Wroxall Cocker Leeky Soup daughter, and by the heterozygous polled bull Wroxall Electric 13. Wroxall India Patience is only a second calver and the Evans team will give a little thought to looking after mum and how best to rear the calves from here. Commenting, Rob Evans said: “This was a lovely surprise and a little bit of unexpected ‘sunshine’ after a tough year with the weather.” For the Wroxall herd, one of the original British Simmental herds and established in 1970, the birth of the triplets was a ‘first time’ event but the third time in a matter of months that British Simmental have reported on a hat-trick of calves!

HARROP HERD SCORES A ‘HAT-TRICK’ WITH SIMMENTAL TRIPLETS!

irst-time Simmental mum, Harrop Victoria Izzie, from the Harrop herd of John James Bradley-Wainwright, Adlington, Cheshire, has given birth to pure-bred Simmental triplets. Whilst triplet births are so rare in beef cattle that scientists have very little information to compile statistical data, the odds of it happening are estimated to be about one in more than 100,000! Harrop Victoria Izzie, sired by Winford Grenadier 15 and out of Fole Nutwood Victoria 46, is a first time calving heifer, and surprised owner Mr BradleyWainwright when she gave birth to three calves in June. Calves Harrop Victoria Lemon, Harrop Victoria Lime, and Harrop Lucky Third Time, sired by Eaton Impeccabull 17 are all doing well, as is Harrop Victoria Izzie, who is happily rearing two of the calves, with the third being taken off her by the breeder. Mr Bradley-Wainwright has a small herd of Simmentals with his father near Macclesfield, and bought Harrop Victoria Izzie’s grandmother when he was 13, which was his first cow. Mr Bradley-Wainwrights father has been involved with the Simmental Society since 1988, and as well as Simmentals they have 300 lambing ewes and 160 cattle.

The Review 2020

EASY MANAGED, CONSISTENT SIMMENTALS

TICKING ALL THE BOXES FOR THE BOWLEY HERD

As a British Simmental herd that typically registers 150-200 calves per year, the most in England, we take a look at what’s behind the management ethos of the Bowley Herd of Mr CM Mercer, based at Hope-Under-Dinmore, Herefordshire.

aving worked with various breeds of cattle in his career, stock manager at Bowley Court Farm, Richard Bell, says the Simmental has stood the test of time for the breed’s superior mothering ability, calving ease and temperament. Richard, who manages the 300-cow herd across the 550-acre grass farm alongside stockman Andrew Bennett on behalf of owner C M Mercer, has been with the herd

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for some 42 years and has witnessed various attributes of many breeds, but feels the Simmental breed delivers on all areas of suckler beef production. “We’ve tried all manner of breeds in the past, have witnessed some of the benefits of hybrid vigour too, but overall nothing has really delivered as consistently and with the ability to tick all the boxes as well as the Simmental,” highlights Richard.

The herd consists of pedigree and purebred Simmental cattle and finishes progeny for ABP with recent sales of 12-13 month old bulls topping at £1550 with 90% hitting U grades and the remaining 10% hitting R grades. “While the Simmental is highly regarded as a maternal breed, these grades are testament to the fact that the breed can hold its own with any of the Continental breeds when it comes to quality beef production.”

…recent sales of 12-13 month old bulls topping at £1550 with 90% hitting U grades and the remainder hitting R grades…” Meanwhile, some 55 heifers are retained each year with the remainder being sold locally as 14/15-month old stores, often to repeat customers. With just two staff working the herd, Richard says ease of management is key. “The herd starts calving indoors around the 20th March and finishes at the end of June with calves tagged, dehorned and then turned out for spring grazing,” he explains. In the run up to calving, cows are fed 2-3lb of cake as well as fodder beet a day according to their condition, alongside wheat or barley straw until calving. Upon turnout, twins are separated with those calves receiving concentrate all through the summer. “With Simmentals we often get twins and we see about 10%, but due to milk availability the dams are quite capable of rearing them,” he adds. Calves are creep fed from the beginning of August depending on grass availability, with bull calves being fed 10lb a day of blend The Review 2020

from For Farmers alongside grass silage, while heifers are fed approximately 6lb of blend alongside grass silage. Currently the herd runs a total of 13 stock bulls, of which 10 have come from Society sales at Worcester or in the past Bristol and Welshpool, with two being purchased privately and one being homebred. “We usually do a range of semen testing prior to use and we tend to test the oldest, youngest and newest in the stock bull team,” explains Andrew Bennett, who has been working with the herd for the last two years. “Historically, bulls have been purchased from the Wroxall, Heywood, Killiworgie and Bosahan herds and the late David Bell. Proving the test of time for some years, the herd’s first bull was purchased for 1000gns at the very first Society sale in Hereford Market in the form of Lindridge Keefe,” adds Richard.

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“We’re now looking at sourcing polled bulls which will no doubt help reduce labour needs going forward, providing we can keep the strong fleshing ability on the bulls,” he adds. With the exception of stock bulls, the herd has remained closed to females for some years. When looking for bulls, Richard and Andrew take both figures and physical presence into consideration, but with the biggest emphasis being on calving ease. “We’re conscious some bulls are pushed hard for sale, so we’re looking for natural fleshing, good legged bulls that aren’t too heavy in the front as well as looking at their calving figures.” Longevity is another key attribute of the Simmental breed and Richard says even the stock bulls last, with one of them still working at 12 years of age. “But while longevity is key, we are strict on culling with any cow showing temperament issues going, as well as bad feet

and udders and with cull cow price hitting up to £1400 recently, it’s worth keeping a close eye on physical attributes.”

….we’re looking for natural fleshing, good legged bulls that aren’t too heavy in the front as well as looking at their calving figures.” Heifers calve at two years of age at the same time as the mature herd. “We prefer to run them as a separate bunch for the first year before joining the main herd,” adds Andrew. Cows are routinely vaccinated for BVD, Leptospirosis, Rotavec and Rispoval 4, as well as a preventative vaccine for clostridial disease as

they once lost a cow to Blackleg. “We prefer to wean during the last two weeks of October and if grazing allows, cows go back out to grass to dry up until housing at the end of November.” Richard admits grazing management is minimum as most of the fields are too steep to plough and many of the lower fields are subject to flooding. “The farm is host to an anaerobic digester with a small amount of arable to help with rotation. Muck from the cattle goes into the digester and the digestate is put back on to the land. “Simmentals tick so many boxes for us, allowing us to run a closed herd, minimising the health risks associated with bought in replacements, as well as producing high value surplus females for sale alongside prime bulls which achieve good grades too. It would take a lot for us to consider an alternative breed,” Richard concludes.

The Review 2020

ANNICK

S I M M E N TA L S

CORSKIE CALLUM

WOLFSTAR GOLD DIGGER

Semen For Sale £35 + VAT

Young Stock Available

COLLEEN’S GINGER

DOB: 08.12.15 | SIRE: Corskie Callum | DAM: Annick Prudence’s Colleen Overall Champion of Champions Neilston 2018

TRIXIE BELLE 24TH

DOB: 10.11.18 | SIRE: Wolfstar Gold Digger | DAM: Annick Trixie Belle 16TH Senior Female / Overall Senior Champion, STARS OF THE FUTURE 2019.

DESIREE’S JOY

FRESIAS JUNE

DOB: 30.03.18 | SIRE: Corskie Callum | DAM: Annick Belle’s Desiree

DOB: 06.06.18 | SIRE: Wolfstar Gold Digger | DAM: Annick Whitney’s Fresia

Contact: Lachlan Quarm, Holehouse Farm, Irvine, Ayrshire. KA11 2AF Tel: 07855 261 350 / 01294 850 275 | Email: lquarm@btinternet.com Find us on Facebook: AnnickSimmentals

ANNICK BREEDING CHAMPIONS FOR OVER 25 YEARS

TALISKER Junior Champion 20,000 gns SIRE: Sterling Nelson 2nd

CLANSMAN

DALWHINNIE

Intermediate Champion 11,000 gns SIRE: Skerington Visa

Senior Champion 13,000 gns SIRE: Skerington Visa

DUCHESS 19TH

CAPERCAILLE

Female Champion 4,200 gns SIRE: Wolfstar Gold Digger

1st Prize Winner 16,000 gns SIRE: Cairnview Snazzy

TRIXIE BELLE 15TH Female Champion 4,800 gns SIRE: Annick Claymore

KLONDYKE

KEVLAR

KINGSMAN

Sold Privately to J. Goldie, Newbiemains, 2020. SIRE: Corskie Callum

Sold to G.M. Bruce, October 2020. SIRE: Wolfstar Gold Digger

Sold Privately to M. Logan, Dalfask 2020. SIRE: Wolfstar Gold Digger

High Herd Health | Farm Assured | Stock Generally for Sale Visitors Welcome by Appointment Corskie Callum Semen For Sale £35 + VAT

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

THE 2020

‘VIRTUAL’ BRITISH SIMMENTAL SHOW, A HIGHLIGHT OF THE YEAR JAMES ARNOLD’S VALE ROYAL HEAVENLY GIRLIE CROWNED THE OVERALL SUPREME CHAMPION Caithness based bull Mavsey Kinetic places Overall Reserve Supreme

745 pedigree Simmental cattle shown over ten classes

‘Virtual Simmental Show the largest online breed show in the year

One of the highlights of the year for British Simmental members proved to be the online ‘Virtual’ British Simmental Show, the largest breed show of its type held in 2020. Set out as a ‘good fun’ competition, with no professional photographs allowed and animals pictured in the field by breeders, the ‘Virtual’ Simmental Show proved to be hugely popular with a massive 745 pedigree Simmental animals entered over the ten classes by 161 breeders from all four corners of the United Kingdom!

The Review 2020

Female Champion - Vale Royal Heavenly Girlie

ith class judging and results rolled out on a week-by-week basis, the competition built up a tremendous following on social media not only in the UK but from breeders in countries around the world. The 2020 ‘Virtual’ British Simmental Show was introduced in the absence of summer shows and also in a year when the Simmental breed was due to celebrate its 50th anniversary with a ‘live’ national show and sale spectacular at Borderway Mart, Carlisle. After some nine weeks of online judging, through July and August, featuring ten classes of close on 750 Simmental cattle, the 2020 ‘Virtual’ British Simmental Show reached its conclusion. Taking the crown of Overall Supreme Champion was Vale Royal Heavenly Girlie from James Arnold, Little Budworth, Tarporley, Cheshire. This four-year-old cow edged out the young bull Mavsey Kinetic, from Jonathan Gunn, Mavsey, Lybster, Caithness.

Commenting further Mr Robson said: “The standard of entry has been remarkably high and over such a big number of entries. Whilst my Champion was well fleshed it has been great to see so many animals on farm in their working clothes, that’s really the way it should be. The future of the Simmental breed looks very good and breeders need to keep the focus on producing what the commercial man wants.” The Overall Supreme Champion, Vale Royal Heavenly Girlie, came out of the cow of any age class which saw a terrific 157 cows in all entered and was one of two female classes to exceed 100 entries. April 2016 born, Vale Royal Heavenly Girlie is by the imported sire Auroch Ace and is out of the Hockenhull Redrum sired Vale Royal Girlie. It was a very poignant win for James Arnold whose father Hugo Arnold, the owner of the Hockenhull herd and a legendary name within the Simmental breed, had sadly passed away just a few weeks previously.

Judging the Overall Supreme title was the wellknown breeder Mr Billy Robson OBE of the Kilbride Farm herd at Ballyclare, Co Antrim who was quick to praise the Champion animals and the success of the 2020 ‘Virtual’ Simmental Show as a whole. Commenting at the time he said: “My choice of Champion just exhibited all of the attributes that you would go for in a Simmental female. She has size, scope, correctness and is very feminine. From the photograph she was in top show condition being very fleshy and I’m sure would excel in any show scenario. I feel she’s a prime example of the breed and came out of a tremendously strong class of 157 cows. The young bull in Reserve has a lot of quality with both style and correctness. Again, I feel he’s got a great future ahead of him and is certainly one to watch.” Male Champion - Mavsey Kinetic 38

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

Prior to the Championship judge off, Vale Royal Heavenly Girlie had secured the Female Championship from the section judge Robert MacGregor, who runs the well know Team pedigree Simmental herd at Kirkton of Mailler, Craigend, Perth. The Male Championship was judged by Robin Boyd of the noted Slievenagh herd, Portglenone, Co Antrim who put forward the April 2019 born Mavsey Kinetic from Jonathan Gunn, Mavsey, Lybster, Caithness. Mavsey Kinetic is by Omorga Fivestar 14 and is out of Mavsey Desire, a Skerrington Legacy daughter. It was a super show for Jonathan Gunn with Mavsey Kinetic initially taking first in the special class for young bulls, born January to June 2019, and followed by Mavsey Kaizer, another Omorga Fivestar 14 son, in second place.

Reserve Female Champion - Ranfurly Lady Diana 37th K22 Reserve Male Champion - Lisglass Goldstar 15

Commenting on his Male Champion, Mavsey Kinetic, Robin Boyd said: “This young bull is well grown for his age. He carries plenty of muscle and shape, and has both style and correctness. He’s very much a modern type of Simmental and with a lot of future ahead of him.” Speaking generally on the bull classes in the ‘Virtual’ Show, Mr Boyd said: “The ‘Virtual’ Show has been a big success and has really highlighted some tremendous Simmental cattle and bloodlines. It’s been great to watch the show of bulls unfold across the various classes and I was delighted to be asked to judge the Male Championship. There were a lot of good young bulls shown, but the senior class of 57 bulls was I think a stand-out. It really was terrific to see the depth of quality of these working stock bulls in such numbers and in herds across the UK.”

OVERALL SUPREME CHAMPION Vale Royal Heavenly Girlie, Mr J Arnold, Longstone Cottage, Longstone Lane, Little Budworth, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 9ET

RESERVE OVERALL CHAMPION

On behalf of the British Simmental Cattle Society, the 2020 Society President Michael Barlow said:

Mavsey Kinetic 19, Jonathan Sinclair Gunn, March Cottage, Mavsey, Lybster, Caithness, Highlands, KW3 6AS

“I’d like to extend congratulations to the Champion exhibitors, and to all of those who have won and placed in classes. To have close on 750 entries has way exceeded expectations and the show has had a huge UK and worldwide following. We set out to provide a fun event, that would involve our breeder members, and which would showcase the British Simmental breed. I think we’ve achieved that and more, and look out for the Society building on this event next year.”

MALE CHAMPION

A different judge was selected for every class and for every championship, and the ‘judging panel’ was an eclectic mix of domestic, experienced, and international breeders. The Society’s thanks are extended to all. A massive thanks is extended to all breeders who so willingly got involved and put forward entries to support the competition and in so doing created a terrific promotion of the British Simmental breed.

Mavsey Kinetic 19, Jonathan Sinclair Gunn, March Cottage, Mavsey, Lybster, Caithness, Highlands, KW3 6AS

RESERVE MALE CHAMPION Lisglass Goldstar 15 Mr G L Clark, Broombrae Farm, Auchtermuchty, Cupar, Fife, KY14 7EE

FEMALE CHAMPION Vale Royal Heavenly Girlie, Mr J Arnold, Longstone Cottage, Longstone Lane, Little Budworth, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 9ET

RESERVE FEMALE CHAMPION Ranfurly Lady Diana 37th K22, Mr WD & JD Hazelton Cohannon House, 25 Bovean Road, Dungannon, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, BT71 6HR

The Review 2020

CLASS 1

‘ V I R T U A L’ B R I T I S H S I M M E N TA L S H O W R E S U LT S

Autumn born bull calf, born in 2019

3rd Mavsey Klansman

1st

4th

Ranfurly Knockout

Denizes Kilkenny

5th Grangewood Kingpin

2nd

Kilbride Farm Kells

6th

Lisglass Kirk

C L A S S 1 R E S U LT S Class name

Judge

Entries

Placings Animal

Owner

Autumn born bull calf, born in 2019

Pat Kelly

1st

Ranfurly Knockout

Mr Wd & Jd Hazelton

2nd

Kilbride Farm Kells

W H Robson & Sons

3rd

Mavsey Klansman

Jonathan Sinclair Gunn

4th

Denizes Kilkenny

Mr M A Barlow

5th

Grangewood Kingpin

Mr & Mrs As & Ya Leedham

6th

Lisglass Kirk

J L & C J Weatherup

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

‘ V I R T U A L’ B R I T I S H S I M M E N TA L S H O W R E S U LT S

CLASS 2

Autumn born heifer calf, born in 2019

3rd

Tirley Devina

1st

4th Omorga Kizzy

Ranfurly Lady Diana 37th K22

5th Calfpark Ellie

6th

2nd Corrick Khloe

Ashland Lucy Kay

C L A S S 2 R E S U LT S Class name

Judge

Entries Placings Animal

Owner

Autumn born heifer calf, born in 2019

Henning Hansen

1st

Ranfurly Lady Diana 37th K22

Mr Wd & Jd Hazelton

2nd

Ashland Lucy Kay

Mr P Kelly

3rd

Tirley Devina

Mr S P White

4th

Omorga Kizzy

Mr H J W & J C Moore

5th

Calfpark Ellie

Philip & Avril Whyte

6th

Corrick Khloe

Cecil And Scott Mcilwaine

7th

Mavsey Koko

Jonathan Sinclair Gunn

8th

Auchorachan Nanny 7

D & R Durno & Sons

9th

Corskie Kimberly

Mr Wj & J Green The Review 2020

CLASS 3

‘ V I R T U A L’ B R I T I S H S I M M E N TA L S H O W R E S U LT S

Mature bull, 3 years plus

3rd Hiltonstown Indiana

1st

4th

Lisglass Goldstar 15

Coose Gambler

5th Omorga Fivestar 14

2nd

Corskie Highlander 16

6th

Tilbrook Frank 14

C L A S S 3 R E S U LT S Class nv

Judge

Entries

Placings Animal

Owner

Mature bull, 3 years plus

John Rixon

1st

Lisglass Goldstar 15

Mr G L Clark

2nd

Corskie Highlander 16

Mr W S Stronach

3rd

Hiltonstown Indiana

Mr R J Mckane

4th

Coose Gambler

C H Evans & Son

5th

Omorga Fivestar 14

Jonathan Sinclair Gunn

6th

Tilbrook Frank 14

Mr V C Bailey

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

‘ V I R T U A L’ B R I T I S H S I M M E N TA L S H O W R E S U LT S

CLASS 4

Cow any age in milk

3rd Kilbride Farm Dora67E

4th Dellfield Emma

5th

1st

Vale Royal Heavenly Girlie

Wolfstar Forget-me-not

6th

2nd Kilbride Farm Eunice 213G

Goldcross Wizard Penny

C L A S S 4 R E S U LT S Class name

Judge

Entries Placings Animal

Cow any age in milk

Billy MacPhearson

157

1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th 11th 12th 13th 14th 15th 16th

Vale Royal Heavenly Girlie Kilbride Farm Eunice 213g Kilbride Farm Dora67e Dellfield Emma Wolfstar Forget-Me-Not Goldcross Wizard Penny Raceview Favourite Starline Kutz 47 Auchorachan Emily Corskie Flume Corskie Elma Blakewell Mistletoe’s Wisteria Heathbrow Sarah’s Holly Corskie Flirty Breaghey Golden Girl Mixbury-Hall Desire

Owner Mr J Arnold W H Robson & Sons Richard James Cumming Mr B Grant Mr A King C W C Waters J L & C J Weatherup Reece & Andrew Simmers D & R Durno & Sons Mr Wj & J Green Mr Wj & J Green A K & R J Steele Nichola Osgood Mr Wj & J Green Andrew W Clarke Mr V C Bailey The Review 2020

CLASS 5

‘ V I R T U A L’ B R I T I S H S I M M E N TA L S H O W R E S U LT S

Spring born bull calf, born in 2020

3rd

1st

Annick Lorenzo

4th

Corskie Lord

Backmuir Lockdown

5th Cwarre Luther 20

2nd

6th

Grangewood Lincoln

Benavente Lulio 20

C L A S S 5 R E S U LT S Class name

Judge

Entries Placings Animal

Owner

Spring born bull calf, born in 2020

Finlay MacGowan

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

1st

Corskie Lord

Mr Wj & J Green

2nd

Grangewood Lincoln

Mr & Mrs As & Ya Leedham

3rd

Annick Lorenzo

Mr L D Quarm

4th

Backmuir Lockdown

Reece & Andrew Simmers

5th

Cwarre Luther 20

Richard James Cumming

6th

Benavente Lulio 20

Mr G Martinez

7th

Corskie Log (TM)

Mr Wj & J Green

8th

Cwarre Longshot 20

Richard James Cumming

9th

Hollybrook Laser

Chris Curson

‘ V I R T U A L’ B R I T I S H S I M M E N TA L S H O W R E S U LT S

CLASS 6

Spring born heifer calf, born in 2020

3rd Corskie Limelda

4th

1st Boars Head Karina 9th

Benavente Lily

5th Backmuir Lorrettes’s Luna

6th

2nd Housey Elvis Blossom 4

Bolankin Hannadante L Dundumwen

C L A S S 6 R E S U LT S Class name

Judge

Entries Placings Animal

Spring born heifer calf, born in 2020

Dan Evans

113

Owner

1st

Benavente Lily

Mr G Martinez

2nd

Housey Elvis Blossom 4

M.g & K.j Coumbe

3rd

Corskie Limelda

Mr Wj & J Green

4th

Boars Head Karina 9th

Mr R J Grenham

5th

Backmuir Lorrettes’s Luna

Reece & Andrew Simmers

6th

Bolankin Hannadante L Dundumwen

B R Wynter

7th

Backmuir Impuls Legacy

Reece & Andrew Simmers

8th

Corskie Lisan P

Mr Wj & J Green

9th

Blackpool Luka

J David Loftus

10th

Annick Ginger’s Lucia

Mr L D Quarm

11th

Blackpool Leann

J David Loftus

12th

Pennytinney Lemon Drizzle

Miss M Wellington The Review 2020

SPECIAL

CLASS

‘ V I R T U A L’ B R I T I S H S I M M E N TA L S H O W R E S U LT S

Young bull

1st

Mavsey Kinetic

4th

Corskie Kadbury

2nd

Mavsey Kaizer

5th

Denizes Kylian

3rd

Corrick Kansas

6th

Islavale Kai

YO U N G B U L L R E S U LT S Class name

Judge

Entries Placings Animal

Young bull

Garett Behan

1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th

Owner

Mavsey Kinetic

Jonathan Sinclair Gunn

Mavsey Kaizer

Jonathan Sinclair Gunn

Corrick Kansas

Cecil And Scott McIlwaine

Corskie Kadbury

Mr Wj & J Green

Denizes Kylian

Mr M A Barlow

Islavale Kai

Mr W S Stronach

Islavale Kristoff

Mr W S Stronach

Lisglass Kojak

J L & C J Weatherup

Newbiemains Knightsbridge

Jim & Patricia Goldie

Knockreagh Kilroy

Val & Conrad Fegan

Group picture of heifers

2nd

Omorga

1st

Housey

4th

Lisglass

3rd

Ranfurly

5th

Auchorachan

G R O U P P I C T U R E O F H E I F E R S R E S U LT S Class name

Judge

Entries Placings Animal

Group picture of heifers

Stewart Stronach

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th

Owner

Housey

M.G & K.J Coumbe

Omorga

Mr H J W & J C Moore

Ranfurly

Mr WD & JD Hazelton

Lisglass

J L & C J Weatherup

Auchorachan

D & R Durno & Sons

SPECIAL

CLASS

‘ V I R T U A L’ B R I T I S H S I M M E N TA L S H O W R E S U LT S

Commercial

1st

Sire Auchorachan Hercules

4th

Sire Omorga Fivestar

2nd

5th

Sire Auchorachan Hercules

3rd

Sire Killiworgie Emperor

6th

Sire Liskerret Garrick 15

C O M M E R C I A L R E S U LT S Class name

Judge

Entries Placings Animal

Commercial

Michael Barlow

1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th

Owner

Sire Auchorachan Hercules

D & R Durno & Sons

Sire Auchorachan Hercules

D & R Durno & Sons

Sire Killiworgie Emperor

G E Davies & Sons

Sire Omorga Fivestar

Jonathan Sinclair Gunn

Sire Auchorachan Hercules

D & R Durno & Sons

Sire Liskerret Garrick 15

Stephanie Hooper

Sire Omorga Horton

Andrew W Clarke

Sire Thorncliff Ivan

Wayne Thomas Mosley

Young members just for fun

4th

Crown

Islavale

1st

2nd

Trefilan

Crown

3rd

5th

Breaghey

YO U N G M E M B E R S J U S T F O R F U N R E S U LT S Class name

Judge

Entries Placings Animal

Young members just for fun

Judy Borlase

1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th

Owner

Islavale

Emma Stronach

Trefilan

Mr David Scourfield

Crown

Catherine And Lilly Nicholas

Crown

Catherine And Lilly Nicholas

Breaghey

Andrew W Clarke The Review 2020

SIRE: CURAHEEN EVOLUTION (P)

COOSE JERICHO (P)

SIRE: KILBRIDE FARM GERNOT 15 (P) DAM: CURAHEEN BRIGHT EYES ET

SACOMBE KESTREL 19

SIRE: BLACKFORD HURRICANE 16 DAM:STERLING BACARDIS HAWAII

POPES KONTIKI

SIRE: CAMUS HARLOD DAM:POPES RHONA

DAM: CRACKLEY IRIS 92F (P)

POPES JASPER 18

SIRE: WOODHALL FERRARI 14 DAM: CLONGUISH DIAMOND

POPES JAMESON 18

SIRE: POPES FEARLESS 14 DAM: POPES NELLYS DAZZLER EX91

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NEWS

LISGLASS GOLDSTAR CROWNED ‘SIMMENTAL CHAMPION OF EUROPE’! • Fife based breeder Gordon Clark lifts coveted title, and places third in the world, with his 2015 born Simmental bull • Wroxall bull takes the Reserve

Lisglass Goldstar

he Simmental bull, Lisglass Goldstar, owned by Mr Gordon Clark, Cupar, Fife was crowned as the ‘Simmental Champion of Europe’, before being placed in the highly credible bronze position in the Overall ‘Simmental Champion of the World’ 2020 competition. This annual online event, organised by the Texas, USA based ‘Simmental Breeder’, featured Simmental breeders and entries from countries across all five continents going head to head in both male and female sections in the respective continents before moving on to the Overall World Finals. Judging took place through November and December 2020 with the judging panel comprising of: Heitor Lutti Pinheiro Machado (Brazil); Andrew Masterson (South Africa); Garrett Behan (Ireland); and Garth Rancier (Canada).

Coose Gambler

Lisglass Goldstar 15 was awarded the ‘Simmental Champion of Europe’ title with Irish bred bull Coose Gambler, owned by the long established Wroxall herd of CH Evans & Son, Abbey Farm, Wroxall, Warwickshire, lifting the Reserve Champion prize. In the judge off for the Overall ‘Simmental Champion of the World’ title, Lisglass Goldstar took the bronze position being placed behind entries from South Africa and Canada respectively. The November 2015 born Lisglass Goldstar 15, bred by JL & CJ Weatherup, Ballyclare, Co Antrim, is by Dermotstown Delboy EX 92, and is out of Lisglass Bramble EX 90. He was purchased by Gordon Clark for his 25 head Broombrae pedigree herd at Stirling in 2017. Earlier this year, Lisglass Goldstar 15 took Reserve Overall Male Champion in the British Simmental Cattle Society’s 2020 Virtual Show, which saw just under 750 entries in all, and after having placed first in a class of 57 working bulls from around the UK. As well as winning show prizes, Lisglass Goldstar 15 is producing some first-class progeny. At the recent 2020 October Stirling Simmental bull sale, and from the first calves at auction by Lisglass Goldstar, Broombrae Kojac 19 made 10,000gns when selling to the Keeldrum herd of Mr David Lowry, Newsteadings Farm, Lanark.

British Simmental genetics were also well to the fore in the female sections of the online competition. Taking the bronze medal position in the Miss Europe Simmental section was Kilbride Farm Iris 17F from WH Robson & Sons, Ballyclare, N Ireland. This 2014 born cow is by Crugmelyn Brenin 10 and is out of Kilbride Farm Iris 9A.

Commenting, Gordon Clark said: “It’s obviously been a very unusual year but these online events have been both a bit of fun and very competitive with some terrific entries forward. It’s a very nice accolade for Lisglass Goldstar to be crowned ‘Simmental Champion of Europe’. Mr Clark has entry forward by Lisglass Goldstar aimed at the February 2021 Stirling Sale and is delighted with how the bull is breeding: “The bull’s breeding very consistently and producing fleshy calves with plenty of length that I think are modern types and suited to both the pedigree breeder and commercial producer.”

As well as recognition in the ‘Simmental Champion of the World’ competition, the 2020 year has seen a significant international interest in British Simmental genetics. Exports of breeding females and bulls have been made to the breed’s homeland countries of Switzerland and Austria. Further exports have seen young bulls going to Italy with semen collections thereafter aimed at the USA and China. Simmental embryos have been exported to Australia, whilst UK based AI companies have reported upon the ‘significant and growing demand’ for British Simmental semen in Asian markets.

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

Kilbride Farm Iris 17F

NEWS

Auroch Eve

DOUBLE ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOW WINNER, AUROCH EVE, CROWNED SIMMENTAL CHAMPION OF THE DECADE!

he double Royal Highland Show Supreme Champion from 2015 & 2016, Auroch Eve, exhibited by Michael Barlow, Four Oaks, Nr Leyland, Lancashire, was crowned the Royal Highland Simmental Champion of the Decade following a virtual competition run by the Scottish Farmer newspaper. After a public vote the champions from 2010 to 2020 were narrowed down to a short list of three which was: the 2014 Champion, Dirnanean Bradley shown by Iain and Jimmy Green of the Corskie herd, near Fochabers; the 2016 winner, Michael Barlow’s Auroch Eve, an Irish-bred cow from his Lancashire herd; and Stewarton, Ayrshire-based David Craig’s home-bred heifer, Kennox Tara’s Gem the contender from 2017. Ruling his eye over the final three was Norman Robson, Ballyclare, Co Antrim who gave the nod to Auroch Eve, with Dirnanean Bradley in Reserve. Commenting, Mr Robson said: “Thank you to the Scottish Farmer for asking me to do the final selection of the Champion of the Decade. It is a privilege to do so in a year that has been so tough for so many people. It was a very difficult call between two cattle that demonstrated the true dual-purpose nature of the Simmental breed. A senior bull, standing square on his legs with length, muscle and masculinity, and a junior cow with beef characteristics, femininity and style. There was a hair’s breadth between them, but the cow which

won in 2016 just had that edge. She looks feminine and productive with a great outlook.” Auroch Eve was purchased in the Republic of Ireland from David Wall’s herd when she was three hours old and arrived in the UK at 21 days of age! Primarily purchased for her breeding and to bring fresh bloodlines into the herd, she has gone on to have a stellar show career and capped to date by doing the double of Supreme Champion Simmental at the Highland in both 2015 & 2016. In 2016 she was shown with her Dinton Nautical sired bull calf at foot, Denizes Hamish, who himself has gone on to be the herd’s stock bull and who went on to win the Reserve Male Champion at the Royal Highland and the Championship at the 2016 Stars of the Future amongst a host of titles. Eve’s other show successes have included: Junior Champion at the 2013 Stars of the Future; Junior Champion at both the English National Show and the Royal Norfolk in 2014; Junior Female at both the Great Yorkshire Show and the Royal Welsh Show; and Champion at the Scottish National held at the Black Isle Show in 2016. Before the Covid-19 situation struck, the intention had been to head back to Ingliston for another crack at the 2020 title. A productive female, Auroch Eve has had fourteen calves registered to her to date and of course including Denizes Hamish. The Review 2020

NEWS

MIDHOPE HEAVENLY LIGHT WINS FARMERS GUARDIAN ONLINE 2020 SUMMER SHOW

ollowing a fantastic entry into the 2020 Farmers Guardian online summer shows competition, Simmentals were once again to the fore in the Championship prizes. Taking the top prize in the keenly contested beef category was Midhope Heavenly Light the February 2016 born Simmental cow with calf at foot from WJ Hollingsworth, Midhope Hall Farm, Sheffield. This category was judged by Boomer Birch, beef programme manager at Cogent, and owner of the Sky High Hereford herd. He said the cow was everything he would look for in a breeding female. “She is moderately framed, naturally fleshing but still carries that milking ability and style. She has a fantastic calf at foot and would be an asset to any herd.” Midhope Heavenly Light is sired by Delfur Chas 11, and is out of the noted Midhope Bright Light, a Corskie Wealth daughter. In 2016 Midhope Bright Light won the Simmental English National Show at the Three Counties, whilst in 2019 Midhope Heavenly Light herself

stood as the Overall and Interbreed Champion at Driffield Show. Her calf at foot in this year’s Farmers Guardian competition was the March 2020 born Midhope Heavenly Light Lovely by Woodhall Everhart 13.

SIMMENTAL HEIFERS SELL FOR £4200 & £3600 AT RUAS BEEF AND LAMB CHAMPIONSHIPS

immental sired heifers at £4200, and £3600, were very much at the top end of the prices at the sale following the third Royal Ulster Premier Beef & Lamb Championships held at Balmoral Park on Tuesday 24th November. On the night, sale records were repeatedly smashed, with exceptional prices across the board reaffirming the event as the Premier show and sale for prime livestock in Northern Ireland. Despite greatly reduced numbers of people allowed to attend the event due to the Covid situation, the full day of judging and auctions was live streamed and as a result, literally thousands watched on from across the globe! The lamb and cattle sales were also viewed live with many lots purchased online in both rings. The quality of livestock forward was top drawer with a mighty 52 beef and lamb show classes culminating in an array of breed and special Championships and some bumper sales.

Simmental Champion

Simmental Reserve Champion

Lifting the Simmental Championship was a 598kgs heifer from the noted JCB Commercials Team from Crossgar. This heifer went on to sell for £4200, or £7.02 per kg, to Shane Mullen, Cavan. The Reserve Simmental Championship went to James Alexander (JALEX), Randalstown, with his heifer out of a BB cow. Weighing in at 632kgs she sold for £3600, or £5.69 per kg, to G McGerrigle, Donemana. Libby Clarke, Chair of the Beef & Lamb committee was absolutely delighted with how it all went and commented on how the use of technology had taken the event to so many people and made it a success: “….The Championships has been a tremendous success with exhibitors showcasing the very best beef and lamb from our local farms. With the innovative use of live streaming, and online sales running in tandem with ringside bidding we have raised the bar in 52

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terms of running a top-class event and I sincerely want to record thanks to all that ensured this went without a hitch…”.

TEAM SIMMENTALS

TEAM MISTY

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SIMMENTALS THRIVING

‘IN CHALLENGING CONDITIONS’ ON SUFFOLK COASTAL MARSHES It is a commonly held belief that Continental cattle require a little extra “TLC” to perform to their best. However, East Anglian-based herdsman Stephen Brett is proving this wrong with the Theberton Simmental herd of Justin and Emma Dowley, Theberton, Leiston, Suffolk.

well this Continental breed thrives. “The herd grazes on coastal marshes, many of which are in environmental schemes or under other restrictions managed by RSPB,” he explains.

Keeping the 95-cow herd of Simmentals he manages outside all year round in some pretty challenging conditions, he says he’s continually impressed how

“As a result, we need a cow which can thrive on this sort of ground and the mediocre forage it can produce. Simmental cows suit our system well, being great mothers, docile and milky.”

ased at Eastbridge, Suffolk, Stephen runs the Theberton pedigree herd on behalf of Justin and Emma Dowley and works largely on his own, apart from a little help from his wife Rosie, to manage the herd and followers, totalling about 220 head at any one time.

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Founded in 1971 by Emma’s father, Martin Dowley, the herd is one of the oldest in the country, with three cows purchased initially and a further five added during the 1970s.

…we need a cow which can thrive on this sort of ground and the mediocre forage it can produce. Simmental cows suit our system well, being great mothers, docile and milky.” “Since then only homebred females have been retained, with bulls sourced from herds across East Anglia when required,” explains Stephen. The current plan is to retain 10-15 heifers each year as replacements, with these carefully selected with the aim of continually improving herd quality. And, with the herd closed, health status is maintained at a high level, with the herd accredited for both Johne’s and BVD. “Surplus heifers are sold for breeding, with the bottom end finished alongside male calves, with these all sold as locally as possible, largely to local wholesaler Bramfield Meats, with cattle slaughtered at H G Blake’s abattoir, Norwich. “I’m a big believer in minimising unnecessary travel for stock so we aim to sell as locally as we can. All cattle grade as U and R grades, with a target of 300-350kg carcasses,” adds Stephen. Currently calving all year round to provide a steady flow of finished cattle throughout the year, the herd is moving more towards an autumn calving block, with heifers calving into the herd at 2.5-3 years old. “All year-round calving has worked well up to now as it means we have regular supply of finished cattle which helps cash flow and management of the finishing group,” he says. And while many would suggest Simmental cows wouldn’t perform on the type of grazing available on the restricted management The Review 2020

coastal marshes Stephen says they’re the ideal cow for the farm. “They thrive off this type of rough grazing, with the only supplement given to cows over the winter being home produced grass and maize silage and fodder beet.

They thrive off this type of rough grazing, with the only supplement given to cows over the winter being home produced grass and maize silage and fodder beet…” “We finish prime cattle using homegrown barley, starting them on a little feed at about a year old. However, cows have a forage only diet and do well on it, rearing calves on milk alone, with creep feeding ruled out by the restrictions placed on the marshes. “Cows have access to a straw pad for a dry lying area when outwintering, but that’s as far as creature comforts go for them,” he says. Herd health management is also kept simple, with pour on treatments used for fluke and worms, with fluke being an everpresent threat as much of the marshland lies just 1m above sea level. “We also give cows a mineral and trace element bolus in spring to counter any deficiencies, with fly tags also used on both cows and calves throughout the summer months.” Breeding wise, the herd is currently using three homebred bulls alongside sires from other local herds, including Key Eric and former herd sire Thursford Ant. “We also use a little AI each year, often on heifers as they are around the yard, making AI much easier than for cattle out on the marshes. “I tend to favour older, proven sires for AI, including Kilbride Farm Newry, Skerrington Legacy, Brinkton Sovereign and Gretna House Supersonic,” explains Stephen. “Because we don’t buy in females, we can afford to use some of the more traditional, widely used sires as our females are clear of those genetics,” he adds.

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And, despite the limitations placed on the herd due to grazing, it has been successful on the local show scene, winning championship tickets at The Royal Norfolk, Hadleigh, Suffolk and Aylsham shows. The herd has also risen to the top in the East Anglian herd competition, being herd of the year in 2019. “Showing isn’t the primary purpose of the herd, but it is a nice addition to what we do and has proven a good way to promote our stock in the past. Both my sons enjoy showing and Emma and Justin enjoy the shows as well.” “Due to the fact our cattle aren’t pushed in terms of diet, younger stock tend to struggle against those from more heavily fed herds, but mature animals more than stand their ground, including Theberton Abigail, a Kilbride Farm Newry daughter, who was successful at Hadleigh, Suffolk, Royal Norfolk and Aylsham shows in 2015.” Stephen adds that longevity is a key attribute within the herd, with the aim for cows to still be productive at 12 years old and the best lasting until 15 years old. “We only bring heifers in if they are better than the worst cow in the herd and that means we are highly critical of our own stock, looking for incremental improvements every year.”

CHEGWIDDEN SIMMENTALS Members of SAC Herd Health Plan Elite Herd Status Accredited Free BVD. IBR.JOHNE’S & LEPTO Breed plan performance recorded Members Of The Checs TB Scheme – Accredited TB Free

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CONTACT JEFF & VIV HALL, CHEGWIDDEN FARM, ST LEVAN,PENZANCE, TR19 6LP Tel: 01736 810516 Mob: 07831834013 Email: halls@chegwiddenfarm.com

The Review 2020

TOP 20 Sires 1970-2020

BRINKTON BRILLIANT TOPS THE LEADING SIMMENTAL SIRES!

he 1991 born Brinkton Brilliant is the top sire by progeny registered in the British Simmental Cattle Society’s herdbook with 3513 calves to his name. Brinkton Brilliant was bred by Bob Lunness, East Yorkshire and was sold to Genus Breeding Limited. Brilliant’s pedigree features the noted female Stuartslaw Melody on the sire line whilst Scottish Neff, himself ranked sixth on the alltime table, features on the dam line.

TOP 20 Sires 1970-2020 BRINKTON BRILLIANT

3513

GRETNA HOUSE SUPERSONIC 1063

2217

LODGE NICHOLAS

1604

HEYWOOD ESQUIRE

1598

BLACKFORD TRIDENT

1595

The figures, produced in the Society’s fiftieth anniversary year, show that seventeen animals in all have had more than 1000 progeny registered to them since the herdbook commenced in 1970. A literal ‘who’s who’ of noted names within the breed, the Heywood herd of David Barker, Somerset, is the only bull with two entries in the top seventeen with Heywood Esquire placing at fourth with 1598 calves and Heywood Scorpio featuring at eighth (with 1400 calves).

SCOTTISH NEFF

1591

RICKARDSTOWN JUMBO

1506

HEYWOOD SCORPIO

1400

STERLING PARLIAMENTARIAN

1317

DIRNANEAN NUGGET

1301

SACOMBE EDGAR

1271

CAMUS BRANDY

1238

Placing at second overall is the 1986 born Gretna House Supersonic 1063, bred by Alasdair Houston, Dumfriesshire and a son of Heywood Scorpio. Supersonic has had 2216 calves registered to him. Completing the top three bulls is Lodge Nicholas bred by S Henshall, Crewe. This 1983 born bull is by the homebred Lodge Lennard. Perhaps unsurprisingly the progeny leaders are mainly pre 2000 born. Kilbride Farm Newry is the leading post 2000 born bull with 1224 calves registered to him. Please see the full listing in the attached graphic along with a pic of Brinkton Brilliant.

KILBRIDE FARM NEWRY

1232

STERLING RAPIER

1137

ARDO FIGARO

1137

STUARTSLAW JOSEPH

1062

SACOMBE WISHFULL THINKING

1053

YANLEY LYSANDER

960

SCOTTISH PRINZ

869

ASTER

820

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RANFURLY CONFEDERATE MOST USED SIMMENTAL SIRE IN 2020

he November 2011 born Ranfurly Confederate C24 11 maintained his number one position as the sire with the most calves registered to him in the year in the BSCS herdbook with 88 in total. Bred by Mr WD & JD Hazelton, Dungannon, Ranfurly Confederate is owned by Mr WS Stronach who run the Islavale pedigree herd at Keith, Banffshire. Sired by Cleenagh Flasher and out of Raceview Aisling Matilda 429, the prolific Ranfurly Confederate has had bulls at sale sell up to 24,000gns. A new entrant coming straight in at number two in the top twenty, with 61 calves is the heterozygous polled Williamwood Iceman 17 (P) from Mr & Mrs Mark Evans and their Dewisland Herd at Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire. This August 2017 born bull, was bred by Mr IW Willison, Williamwood Farm, Mansfield Nottinghamshire. Sired by Linde General (P) he is out of the Omorga Bambi 2 daughter Williamwood Hazel. With an increase of 41 calves on the year to a total of 59, Drumagarner Hughes from the noted Corskie herd of WJ & J Green, Garmouth,

TOP 20 sires – 2020

2020

2019

RANFURLY CONFEDERATE C24 11

WILLIAMWOOD ICEMAN 17

DRUMAGARNER HUGHES 16

ISLAVALE FRONTIER 14

Fochabers places third on the list. This August 2016 born bull bred by Mr M & Mr E McLoskey, Coleraine, N Ireland, is by Rabawn Flame, and is out of Drumagarner Beyonce, another daughter of Omorga Bambi 2.

TOP 20 Sires 1996-2020 BRINKTON BRILLIANT

2581

KILBRIDE FARM NEWRY

1231

CAMUS BRANDY

1007

GRETNA HOUSE SUPERSONIC 1063

839

TEAM CELTIC 11

SALISBURY CHALLENGER

718

COOSE GAMBLER

POPES LAIRD

692

BALLINALARE FARM GALAXY 15

AUCHORACHAN WIZARD

685

CORSKIE HIGHLANDER 16

DINTON NAUTICAL

653

KILBRIDE FARM HAKA 16

STERLING FLINT

650

ATLOW DIXON 12

OMORGA VOLVO

641

SNEUMGAARD IMPERATOR

SACOMBE WISHFULL THINKING

628

DERMOTSTOWN DELBOY

BLACKFORD HARVESTER

621

WOODHALL FERRARI 14

WOODHALL DYNAMITE

580

WOLFSTAR GORDY 15

DOVEFIELDS GALLANT

570

KILBRIDE FARM GOLDSTAR 15

POPES BARCLAY 10

561

AUROCH HUDSON

CAIRNVIEW SNAZZY

551

STERLING EMPIRE

HOCKENHULL MAVERICK

548

POPES GRANDSLAM 15

SAMARK SUPERMAN

452

DIRNANEAN BRADLEY

KILBRIDE FARM COMBER 11

449

DIRNANEAN GELDOF 15

DERMOTSTOWN DELBOY

446 The Review 2020

GOLDEN COW AWARD

ntroduced in 2018, the Golden Cow is a replacement for the Elite Cow Scheme. As well as looking at the EBV’s for a cow and her progeny the Golden Cow also takes into account the physical attributes of the cow from the Classification scores awarded to her.

Classification is done through HUKI – see details on page 95 Qualifying criteria for Golden Cow Award • Cow must have five calves with an average calving Interval of 13 months (twins are classed as one calving) • Cow must have indexes above breed average • All calves must have indexes above breed average • Cow must be classified as Excellent Once awarded Golden Cow status this award remains whilst the cow is live and active in the herd book.

Golden Cows COW

OWNER

KILLIWORGIE CYNTHIA EX 90

MR S A GUMMOW

HILTONSTOWN EMERALD EX 90

RICHARD RODGERS

ISLAVALE ELEANOR EX 92

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE ERICA EX 91

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE SINDY 2 EX 92

MR W S STRONACH

SOWENNA ANNIE EX 92

MR & MRS HAWKEY

CORSKIE WEE GEM EX 93

MR WJ & J GREEN

AUCHORACHAN WENDY EX 93

D & R DURNO & SONS

RANFURLY WEIKEL 2 V29 (ET) EX 92

MR WD & JD HAZELTON

DINTON TRINKET EX 90

MISS S V FRANCIS

CORSKIE CEGEM EX94

MR WJ & J GREEN

MIDHOPE EVERLIGHT EX94

MR W J HOLLINGWORTH

CORSKIE FINETTE EX 90

MR WJ & J GREEN

Corskie Cegem, Mr WJ & JI Green, Interbreed Junior Champion at the 2013 Royal Highland Show. 60

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ROMA SIMMENTALS ‘ISLAVALE FRONTIER ’

ISLAVALE FRONTIER

- Purchased From Woodhall Stirling Feb ‘18 - Sire of many calves at the sale

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The Review 2020

NEWS

ONLINE ‘SIMMENTAL MARKET’ PROMOTING SIMMENTAL CATTLE FOR SALE • Easy to use website bringing Simmental sellers and buyers together

he ‘Simmental Market’ website, www.simmentalmarket.co.uk, established in early 2020 has proven to be a popular and practical forum to help members market their animals for sale, and to help buyers looking for pedigree Simmental stock. Free to use, the site was set up during the ongoing Covid-19 situation to help breeders’ market and promote stock they have available for sale. Since being rolled out the use of the site has developed to also hold and promote pictures, videos, and pedigree details of all stock forward at upcoming Society, breeders, and Club Sales. The site has attracted some fantastic visitor figures and the pull through of that is that stock entered on the site is being readily sold! A large percentage of the animals entered for private sale have been notified as sold. Some of the leading buyers at the pedigree sales have fed back that they first saw the animals on Simmental Market whilst doing their ‘pre-sale homework’. The 2020 year also saw some export trade of cattle and genetics outwith the UK and again with Simmental Market having spiked their initial interest. All breeders need to do is send the name of the given animal, contact 62

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details, and a picture and/or video to information@ britishsimmental. co.uk and it will be uploaded to the site. Entries show the picture of the animal, the preferred contact details of the breeder, and a link through to the pedigree and performance information. There is the opportunity to include any short footnotes around each of the entries. We have been posting all new entrants onto the Society’s Facebook page first, which has further increased exposure, and with a link through to Simmental Market. All sale animals are listed under an Upcoming Auction Sales heading. The site also has a regional index and this has made it easier for would be buyers to look at the geographies of their choice. The site will continue to be developed as is required and in line with the needs of breeders and buyers respectively. It is very much a site and service to help members promote their stock available for sale and to bring buyers and sellers together. So, please send your entries, any short text, and pics to: information@britishsimmental. co.uk and phone 02476 696513 if you have any further queries about Simmental Market.

NEWS

‘NEW LOOK’ SIMMENTAL SOCIETY WEBSITE TO BE LAUNCHED IN 2021

ook out in 2021 for a ‘new look’ to the British Simmental website at www.britishsimmental.co.uk

Work is being commenced early in the year with a view to the site being simple, effective, and easy to use for all. The aim of course is to provide a site that professionally promotes British Simmental and is a point of reference for all things British Simmental. We recognise the growing power of short, sharp messages on social media for immediate news and updates. The website will also reflect that in style but increasingly will have the content for those wishing to read and reference breed Society news and information in more depth. Visually strong but easy to load on mobiles, tablets, and PCs, we’ve looked at where the site is most visited and will try and reflect that in the build so that you can get to those pages as quickly and as easily as possible. Use of the database searches and access to the latest news will be located on the homepage or within a click. Header buttons will be kept to a minimum but through which you’ll be able to access such as: features; case studies; performance recording information; a sales section; advertising; Society rules and fees; contact details; useful links; videos; and references to archived material. In visiting www.britishsimmental.co.uk we want the site to promote the Simmental breed to commercial producers and ‘new’ breeders by providing them with up to date information including forthcoming sales and events, news and articles, strong breed visuals, and examples of the breed in action. Similarly for members we want the site to be informative, helpful and a service that adds value to your membership.

Year Letter for 2021 is

M The Year letter for Bulls born in 2021 is M followed by the year 21 eg: Prefix Mario 21

SIMMENTAL PROMOTION ON SOCIAL MEDIA

hrough the 2020 year the Society has been working hard to build the breed and Society’s profile on social media over the recent months. Posts on Facebook have been frequent and wide ranging in content covering such as the ‘Virtual’ Show; Simmental Market; upcoming sales; market briefs; herd events & news; exports; trait leaders; flashbacks; and just all-encompassing Simmental news. The linkage of posts and media just builds traffic and Simmental visibility overall. Through the year social media has continued to provide a terrific, cost effective means of breed promotion through shared platforms for members, the breed and the Society. Traffic and visitors through the respective medias has been fantastic with numbers growing month on month with significant breed interest from both home and abroad. The Society is active on both Facebook and Twitter and towards the end of 2020 has started to use Instagram. Where you are able to it would be great if you could like and follow the respective Simmental accounts, and like, share, or comment on any of the given posts. This is what extends the reach and visibility of the Simmental page and will help to further promote the breed.

The Review 2020

Est.1973

THEBERTON HERD OF BRITISH SIMMENTALS

VISITORS ALWAYS WELCOME! Members of the SAC Herd Health Plan Johne’s Risk Level I Herd is accredited free of BVD Pedigree stock usually for sale Justin and Emma Dowley

Theberton House, Theberton, Leiston, Suffolk, IP16 4RL

Stockman Stephen Brett Tel: 01728 830729 Email: thebertonsimmentals@gmail.com /Theberton Simmentals

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SPOTLIGHT ON CUMBRIA

COMMERCIAL SIMMENTAL CATTLE

DOING THE BUSINESS IN CUMBRIA

The Review 2020

SPOTLIGHT ON CUMBRIA

SIMMENTALS THE BREED

‘FIT TO FACE THE FUTURE’ AT MANOR FARM, PENRITH The Review features the 120 suckler cow herd of Irving & Evonne Pearson at Manor Farm, Blencow, Cumbria where lower input Simmentals are helping to increase profitability.

ased on the very edge of the fertile Eden Valley in the small hamlet of Blencow, in the shadow of the eastern mountains of the Lake District near Penrith, Cumbria, Irving Pearson farms Manor Farm with his wife Evonne. Irving is following in the footsteps of his great grandparents who took the tenancy of the farm on back in the mists of time and which now runs to 320 acres of productive farmland with about two thirds of this owned, and the rest rented. The Pearsons run around 100 Texel cross bred ewes, a project that his children, Lilia, 11, and Isaac, 9, are ‘in charge of’, and which has quickly grown from the starting point of a couple of ewes. Being in such a fertile area they also grow around 50 acres of barley, which 66

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helps with the winter feed and bedding, and also helps keep the ground fresh and in good heart, reseeding with grass after cropping. The main focus of the farm however is on their herd of 120 suckler beef cows, a mixture of pure Simmental and British Blue cross Simmental which run with the Simmental bull, producing top quality beef cattle which are all retained and finished on the farm. “We put a few pure Simmentals to the British Blue bull with a view to retain some of the resulting heifers for breeding and there is a market for our surplus heifers too” Irving observes.

MANOR FARM, PENRITH

Well fleshed and fast finishing, but the females are great milkers too, an ideal starting point for a modern suckler cow.” Pre foot and mouth in 2001, the farm was using Limousin sired cattle out of dairy cows, but when the Pearsons re-stocked they re-evaluated the business and decided to look for a beef breed with a bit more carcase and quicker finishing time than they were achieving

with the Limousin cross. Having looked around they settled on the Simmental bull as their main sire, liking them for their carcase, mothering ability, and the fact they were very quiet to handle. “They are a genuine Dual Purpose breed” says Irving, “Well fleshed and fast finishing, but the females are great milkers too, an ideal starting point for a modern suckler cow” he says. Today they run an essentially closed herd, retaining 16-20 of the best females annually, which are calved at three years old to an easy calving bull, and just buying in fresh bulls when required. “Keeping the herd closed as much as possible helps keep the herd healthy and saves us bringing in unforeseen in problems. When we look for a new bull a high health

The Review 2020

SPOTLIGHT ON CUMBRIA

MANOR FARM, PENRITH

status is as important as the bull himself” he notes. As well as keeping an eye on the health status of incoming cattle they also vaccinate against BVD and leptospirosis which is seen as a vital tool to keep the herd disease free. The herd calves in spring mainly to utilise the best of the grass and all the calves, apart from the heifers that they select to retain, are finished on the farm. The calves get a good start and summer well as Irving finds the cows are such good milkers off the grass. Once weaned and housed in the autumn, the bulls are finished on a diet of barley and a 34% protein pellet. With the Simmental breed being well noted for its high growth rate, the bulls are sold at between 12-14 months old direct to slaughter on a deadweight basis, and aiming for a carcase weight of around 400kg. These Simmental sired bulls finish well on this system, fleshing up quickly and meet the specification with ease, mainly hitting the U Grade for maximum profitability. The heifers are grazed around on grass for a second summer and then housed for winter and finished on the same ration as the bulls, selling these at around 20-22 months old, and with them finishing equally as well as the bulls.

Simmental is a breed fit to face the future with its ability to produce cattle with lower inputs and high growth rates off milk rather than lots of concentrates.” When buying a fresh stock bull Irving likes to study the catalogue closely and likes to check out the EBVs for calving ease, milkiness as well as growth as he feels the maternal values of the bull is vitally important for the system he uses, and he sees the EBVs as a tool for

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selection, but as he says “ I have to like the look of the bull too….. no good having a bull with all the correct figures if you don’t like the look of it….It will hopefully be working here a long time so it has to look the part too!” Whilst he has bought bulls at Carlisle in the past, Irving’s last few bulls have been bought out of Stirling, where he feels there is also a wide range of bulls to choose from and a great depth of quality amongst the bulls on offer. Looking back over the last 20 years or so with the Simmental as the cornerstone to their herd, Irving hails the Simmental as an ideal breed to fit into his system. “My system might not fit everyone, but it certainly works for us on our farm, and that’s what we set out to achieve when we had to make the change after FMD in 2001” he muses. As farming moves forward to a less certain time post Brexit and less government support, Irving feels the Simmental is a breed fit to face the future with its ability to produce cattle with lower inputs and high growth rates off milk rather than lots of concentrates. This he says therefore lowers costs whilst increasing profitability, offering the Simmental a competitive edge over other breeds.

RESEARCH PROVEN

PRE-CALVER FOR DAIRY AND BEEF COWS.  Reduces the risk of milk fever, difficult calvings and retained placenta  Promotes calf health and vigour (more “get up and go”)  Supports and maintains a strong healthy immune system to help withstand infectious challenges post-calving  Enhances post calving conception rates  Promotes rumen condition for improved lactation  Low required intakes 200g/cow/day typically costing 20p per cow/day

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The Review 2020

SPOTLIGHT ON CUMBRIA

SIMMENTAL LUING CROSSES EXCELLING AS

‘IDEAL UPLAND CATTLE’ AT TOWN END FARM

Snapshot herd feature on Angus Freeman, Town End Farm, Troutbeck, Lake District National Park.

et in the heart of the magnificent Lake District National Park, overlooking Windermere from the heights of the historic Troutbeck village is Town End Farm, run by Angus Freeman. It is hard to imagine a more picturesque setting for a farm anywhere in the country. Despite the beautiful setting, it is nonetheless a proper hill farm, and the stock it carries has to be able to cope with whatever the weather throws at it. The family took on the tenancy of the farm in 1971, when Angus’s father, Doug, took on the farm from the National Trust. Doug was still a regular on the farm up until recently, but had taken more of a backseat to the running of the farm when Angus came back to work full time on the farm in 2008, after spending six years working as a mechanic at C.T. Hayton’s, a local tractor dealership and engineering firm. 70

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Town End now runs to around 700 acres of tenanted and owned land, running from the shores of Windermere to the top of Wansfell which rises to 1500 feet above sea level. The Freeman’s lamb about 750 ewes, with 400 Swaledale and 350 mule ewes. The Swaledales, are mainly home bred and any extra replacements that are needed are bought in as gimmer lambs. Running alongside the sheep is a herd of Luing cattle, which were initially introduced in 2009 when Angus initially bought six heifers from the Cadzow Bros on Luing at a sale in Oban. The herd runs to 30 cattle now, nearly all of them sourced from the same herd on Luing. “We found the cattle ideal for what we need. They thrive on the rough ground and are very quiet, important in the lakes where you may be approached at any time by walkers or mountain bikers whizzing past” he says. They used to have a herd of Limousin cattle

TOWN END FARM, TROUTBECK

but feel that the Luings perform better, with wintering being cut from 8 months with the Limousin to a mere 3 months with the Luings. The cattle come in between Christmas and New Year and are out again by late March. The first heifers were crossed with a Limousin bull which they still had after selling the herd, but Angus felt that the calves weren’t an improvement on the original Luings. In looking for an alternative, they have been delighted with the Simmental bull, and influenced by the reputation of Simmental – Luings as an ideal cross. Calving is in late February/March, and heifers calve at around 3 years old. Spring calving fits the farms system as the cows can graze, and more importantly, thrive, on the fell during the summer months without any extra intervention. The Freeman’s sourced a Simmental bull from the Denizes herd of Michael Barlow, Ulnes, Nr Leyland, Lancashire with the herd high health status being extremely important. Extremely impressed with the quality of the calves and the ease of calving, further Denizes bulls have subsequently been purchased. “The Sim-Luing cross excels as hardy hill cattle”, Angus says. “With some excellent growth rates and with the hybrid vigour offering a viable alternative to the established continental breeds, they are ideal for upland farms which need hardy cattle able to thrive on the marginal land.” This factors allied to the High Health status that the family have adhered to, make the heifers a very attractive option for herds looking for recipient cattle in pedigree herds and Angus says he can’t breed enough females to meet the demand, with a ready trade selling them all at home. “Sim-Luing heifers have proved themselves to be great mothers and good milkers as well as easy calvers and the pedigree breeders are keen to

capitalise on this” he says. In fact, the majority of last year’s bulling heifers were all snapped up by one breeder who was so impressed by them and having initially only planned to buy a couple! Steers used to be sold in the January suckler sale at J36, Kendal, but with the tremendous growth rate that the Simmental bull has brought, Angus has moved to selling them at the first suckler calf sale in October. “They really are proving to be an ideal suckler calf, quiet and naturally thrifty, with the calves going to the same buyers most years”, he says. Moving forward Angus is keen to introduce more Luing cattle to Town End Farm to meet this growing demand for his heifers by the Simmental bull. “The Simmental Luing cross is just ideal for our farm. Looking forward to a beef system with less direct Government support, and a slant towards more environmental schemes, a beef cow that pays its way on harder ground has to be the way forward. The Simmental bull will continue to play an important and integral part in the herd’s future.

The Review 2020

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TECHNICAL

COMMERCIAL CARCASE EBVs IMPROVING PRODUCTIVITY AND PROFITABILITY SIMMENTAL RANKED UK’S #1 CONTINENTAL BREED FOR AGE AT SLAUGHTER

bull’s Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) provide you with a good idea of the genetic potential he will pass on to his calves, and should always be taken into consideration when purchasing stock bulls or choosing AI sires. Although terminal traits such as growth rate and muscle depth are a step in the right direction to producing profitable carcases, they are an indirect and therefore imperfect measure of carcase performance. Work by Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), with funding from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) and Hybu Cig Cymru (HCC), has led to the publication of the AHDB National Beef Evaluations, a set of five EBVs that are linked to the things commercial farmers get paid for, such as carcase quality and speed of finishing. These are: • • • • •

Carcase weight (kg) Carcase conformation (EUROP classification) Carcase fat class (EUROP classification) Days to slaughter (days) Average daily carcase gain (kg)

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These EBVs are calculated using data from BCMS, processors and breed societies, giving high accuracy figures for bulls that have had progeny slaughtered. For young bulls, EBVs can still be calculated using data from their relatives, such as their parents and grandparents. These figures will get more accurate when their own progeny reach slaughter age. The processor data currently covers 40 per cent of the national kill and almost 3 million carcase records for both purebred and crossbred animals have been used in the latest genetic evaluation. The heritability tells us what proportion of variation we see in a phenotypic trait is down to genetics. For the new carcase traits, over 40% of variation we see is a result of genetics, so making use of these new EBVs will greatly accelerate improvement in carcase characteristics.

Understanding the new carcase traits This set of EBVs is derived directly from commercial data, and should therefore be of high interest to commercial producers as well as the

TECHNICAL

pedigree sector. So as well as being useful when making your own breeding decisions, these EBVs could also be used as a marketing tool when selling stock bulls. They are also highly relevant to beef on dairy sires, with some bulls having the potential to produce a calf that will be much more profitable when put into the beef supply chain. The carcase EBVs are the first to be released under the umbrella of the AHDB National Beef Evaluations, a growing set of EBVs based on commercial data sources. Further work currently in the pipeline includes the development of EBVs for age at first calving, calving interval, longevity and calf survival, and also EBVs for resistance to bovine tuberculosis.

DAYS TO SLAUGHTER Definition: An EBV predicting days to slaughter at a given weight and fat class. Calculated from: Dates of birth and slaughter. These are primarily obtained from records within the BCMS database. Unit of measurement: Days Interpretation: Skerrington Superstar has a days to slaughter EBV of -32.67. On average, he will produce progeny that reach slaughter 16.3 days earlier than progeny from a bull with a days to slaughter EBV of 0. High negative values for age at slaughter indicate animals whose progeny reach a given carcase weight faster (ie. in fewer days) than average.

CARCASE WEIGHT Definition: An EBV predicting carcase weight at a given slaughter age. Calculated from: Records of cold carcase weight provided by UK processors. Unit of measurement: Kilogrammes (kg) Interpretation: Skerrington Superstar has a carcase weight EBV of +5.19. On average, he will produce progeny whose carcases are 2.6kg heavier than progeny from a bull with a carcase weight EBV of 0.

CARCASE CONFORMATION Definition: An EBV predicting carcase conformation at a given slaughter age. Calculated from: Records of carcase conformation based on the EUROP classification system, provided by UK processors. Unit of measurement: Carcase conformation scores converted to a 45 point score. A conformation grade (e.g. R to U) spans about 9 points. Interpretation: Skerrington Superstar has a carcase conformation EBV of +0.02. On average, he will produce progeny whose carcase conformation is equivalent to that from a bull with a carcase conformation EBV of 0. A bull with a carcase conformation EBV of +9 would produce progeny that have conformation half a grade higher than a bull with a conformation EBV of 0.

The Review 2020

TECHNICAL

CARCASE FAT CLASS

AVERAGE DAILY CARCASE GAIN (ADCG)

Definition: An EBV predicting carcase fat class at a given slaughter age. Calculated from: Records of carcase fat class based on the EUROP classification system, provided by UK processors. Unit of measurement: Fat class scores (ie values 1 to 5H) are converted to a 45 point score. The difference between the main grades is about 9 points. Interpretation: Skerrington Superstar has a carcase a fat class EBV of 1.18. On average, he will produce progeny that are marginally fatter than progeny from a bull with a fat class EBV of 0. A bull with a fat class EBV of +9 will produce progeny that are half a grade higher (fatter) than a bull with a fat class EBV of 0.

Definition: An EBV predicting daily gain in the carcase. Calculated from: Carcase weight, date of birth and date of slaughter. Unit of measurement: Kilogrammes (kg) Interpretation: Skerrington Superstar has an ADCG EBV of +0.04. On average, the daily carcase gain of his progeny will be 0.02kg greater than progeny from a bull with an EBV of 0. All five EBVs are expressed on two bases, native and continental, so EBVs for Simmental cattle can be compared directly with other continental beef breeds.

What does this mean for Simmentals? Currently ranked #1 continental breed for age at slaughter Based on data from the December 2020 evaluation on continental breeds, the Simmental breed ranks number one in terms of average EBV for days to slaughter, with an average EBV of -5.13 days. This average is currently significantly lower than the other continental breeds. The genetic trend for days to slaughter has a shallow downward slope, meaning that Simmental breeders are successfully breeding animals that finish at an earlier age, but there’s still plenty of room for more progress. We do see high levels of variation in all five traits for all breeds, which combined with the high heritabilities means there is good scope for carcase improvement in every breed. To maintain the current breed advantage in terms of days to slaughter, Simmental breeders should make use of these new EBVs when making selection decisions to help accelerate genetic gain. 78

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TECHNICAL However, The British Simmental Cattle Society has set up an ABRI link to the AHDB National Beef Evaluations, allowing you to access the new carcase trait EBVs directly from the BREEDPLAN website rather than having to use two separate search functions. To access the data directly from the BREEDPLAN website, complete the animal search as normal. If the animal you have searched for has published Carcase trait EBVs, you will see a link to view the EBVs from the AHDB National Beef Evaluations under the DNA Ref No. Clicking this link will take you directly to the new EBV information for that animal.

Remember: Carcase merit is only one aspect of a profitable beef enterprise. It is important to consider this new data alongside other EBVs when selecting individuals for breeding. For example, animals of high carcase merit should not be chosen to the detriment of health and fertility traits such as calving ease.

Identifying new sources of good genetics Because the AHDB national beef evaluations are based on millions of commercial carcase records, accurate EBVs are available for a wide range of Simmental cattle. In the latest run (December 2020), there were 3,902 Simmental bulls with high accuracy (≥80%) carcase traits EBVs. Of these 3,902 bulls, approximately 70% of animals had EBVs for weaning, yearling and finishing weight published on the Breedplan database, and less than 50% had EBVs available for eye muscle area and fat (Table 1). Less than 10% of the bulls had Breedplan EBVs with accuracies of ≥80%. The AHDB national beef evaluations therefore provide a good opportunity to make better informed decisions on breeding bulls who don’t have enough information within the Breedplan database for them to have high accuracy EBVs published. Breedplan trait

Animals with a published Breedplan EBV

Animals with a Breedplan EBV ≥80%

Weaning weight

2833

72.6%

247

6.3%

Yearling weight

2833

72.6%

222

5.7%

Finishing weight

2833

72.6%

180

4.6%

Carcase weight

2112

54.1%

1.5%

Eye muscle area

1680

43.1%

0.1%

Fat depth

1682

43.1%

1.1%

Table 1: The amount of Breedplan data available for 3,902 bulls with high accuracy carcase trait EBVs (≥80%) published via the AHDB national beef evaluations.

Accessing the data The new EBVs can be accessed via the EGENES website and you can search by pedigree name or ear tag number, at http://ahdbbeef. egenes.co.uk/

“Why is the average progeny performance half of the EBV value?” The EBV is the measure of the genetic merit of the bull. He contributes 50% of his genetics to his progeny, therefore the average progeny performance is 50% of the EBV value. “Will such small increases in conformation and fat class really make a difference?” Example shows small benefits (less than half a grade) for conformation and fat class. It’s important to remember that genetic improvement is both cumulative and permanent, so even small improvements will add up over generations to produce higher performing animals. “How reliable are the new EBVs?” As with the BREEDPLAN EBVs, the new carcase trait EBVs have an accuracy value associated with them. The higher the accuracy value, the more reliable the result. EBVs are only published for animals where the accuracy for all five traits is over 30%. How can you help to make these EBVs better? The production of these EBVs relies on sire details being recorded on passports to be able to identify genetic links between bulls and recorded progeny. In the latest genetic evaluation (December 2020), there were 5 million carcase records that could not be utilised because the sire was not recorded in BCMS, so genetic links could not be made. We are urging farmers to make sure they record known sires when registering animals with BCMS as this is the best way to improve the range and accuracy of these EBVs. As well as recording all known sires for your own herd, please encourage buyers of stock bulls to do the same. Increasing the level of sire recording will allow us to identify genetic links between cattle and improve the accuracy of the results. Since 2019, AHDB has been encouraging farmers to register sire details on to passports with a new campaign. To follow the conversation search #shoutaboutthesire on social media. AHDB Beef & Lamb have also produced a Suckler Breeding Plan to help farmers record sires used on groups of animals if you don’t have computer software. This can be found at http://beefandlamb.ahdb. org.uk/returns/ The Review 2020

TECHNICAL

OPTIMISING COW MATURE WEIGHT –

HOW HEAVY IS TOO HEAVY? Research by AbacusBio International on behalf of AHDB, QMS and HCC has used industry data to create a model of UK beef production systems, which shows how increases in mature size affect traits such as carcase size and cow maintenance requirements, and how these changes affect cost and revenue on farm.

uckler cows in the UK have been increasing in size over time. Heavier cows provide extra value to the farm by producing heavier offspring, and by having a higher cull cow value. However, they also cost more to keep on farm, and so we must strike a balance on cow mature weight. The AbacusBio International team compared the cost of producing cows with a mature weight of 651kg compared to those with a mature weight of 751kg. The results (Table 1) showed that heavier

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cows benefit the modelled farm through higher cull cow revenue, and by producing offspring with higher carcase revenue and quality. However, heavier cows have higher costs in terms of maintenance feed and replacements, and they also suffer from a decrease in fertility, potentially producing less offspring in their breeding lifetime. Heavier cows also require more land than lighter cows, resulting in a reduced stocking density on farm. Once you combine all of these factors, the cost of production is higher for heavier breeding females and therefore profitability is worse.

TECHNICAL Having taken all of these effects into account and applying the model across a range of cow mature weights, the team found that the optimum mature weight for a breeding female is between 680 and 685kg. Beef producers who feed primarily home-grown feedstuffs may be able to keep breeding females of up to 700kg to optimise their profits, as the cost of producing home-grown feed is lower than the cost of buying feed in. Table 1: Herd margin over feed for different cow mature weights (based on a 100 cow herd). The margin over feed is the net revenue when feed is the only cost that varies. In this model, all other costs remain the same. Mature weight 651kg Cost Revenue Maintenance feed £11,771 Cull cow £10,924 Replacement growth £10,620 Heifer carcase value £15,834 £28,906 Steer carcase value £24,522 £42,920 Bull carcase value £5,465 £8,120 Total £68,213 £90,872 Margin over feed* £22,658

weight has increased by 56kg, from an average of 631kg back in 2000, to an average of 687kg in 2013. Assuming that this dataset is a representative sample of the UK Simmental herd, this would suggest that in 2013, over 50% of mature cows weighed more than the optimum 685kg, and as the genetic potential for larger mature cow weight increases, the percentage of mature Simmental cows over the optimum mature weight is likely to be higher than 50% today. The profitability of the national herd is therefore lower than it could be.

Animal

751kg Cost £21,655

Revenue £13,144

£16,588 £18,278 £29,296 £6,602 £92,420 £11,140

£34,292 £46,175 £9,948 £103,561

Simmental cow mature weight trends As mentioned on page 80, and can be seen in Figure 1, the genetic trend for mature weight has been increasing by over 1kg per year. The average EBV for mature cow weight for animals born in 2000 was 46.9kg, rising to 66.7kg for animals born in 2018.

To increase herd profitability, there is a strong argument of the importance that this trend for heavier cows is reversed. As mature weight is a heritable trait, we can use genetic improvement techniques to help take aim at the current trend.

Steps to optimise mature cow weight 1.

Where available, make use of selection indexes that have penalties applied to breeding female mature weight EBVs; this controls the increase in mature weight, associated with selection for early growth

2. Weigh breeding females regularly and compare this to the weight of the calf they produce at weaning. It is aimed that a cow should produce 45% of her weight at weaning. Sign up for performance recording so that the data can be shared with Breedplan and used in genetic evaluation. 3. Don’t retain heifers from your biggest cows in the herd, mature weight is heritable. Looking at the phenotypic trend for mature cow weight over time using Breedplan data is difficult due to the low level of mature weight recording in the breed. However, we have been able to get an estimate of Simmental mature cow size over time by analysing cull cow data from the slaughter records that are shared by abattoirs for use in the AHDB national beef evaluations. The estimates are based on multiplying the cow carcase weight by the industry average killing out percentage. Figure 2 shows the distribution of cow mature weights for cows born in 2000 vs 2013 that were slaughtered between 5 and 10 years of age. In this 13 year period, the estimated average mature cow

4. Buy sires where it is possible to assess the size/weight of the breeding females, and gather more intelligence about the genetic merit of the males for growth, mature weight and other genetic merit estimates 5. Communicate with commercial farmers to understand the needs in the context of breeding female mature weight, with an understanding that bigger is not always better.

The Review 2020

TECHNICAL

IGNITING GENETIC IMPROVEMENT IN BRITISH SIMMENTAL 20 years of breeding – where have we come from, and what does the future hold?

reeding lies at the foundation of any beef production system. Whilst herd breeding decisions are just one element of cattle management, selecting superior parents for breeding will lead to cumulative and permanent gains in herd productivity, profitability and efficiency. Suckler farmers across the UK have a variety of systems, resources and end markets, each of which has its own requirements in terms of both male and female performance. Identifying what you yourself, and your customers require from your cattle, is an essential first step to choosing a bull to breed your cows with. Good genetics are the basic building blocks of animal production, no amount of extra feed and good management

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can truly overcome the influence of poor genetics. The benefits of genetic improvement are both cumulative and permanent, so good breeding decisions will continue to pay dividends in the herd over many years, and the use of estimated breeding values (EBVs) across the agricultural industry has led to huge gains in productivity and profitability in the past 50 years. As the industry has gained more knowledge on the use of these tools, we are now able to continue that improvement in productivity while maintaining health and welfare traits. In this article we take a closer look at Simmental genetic improvement since 2000, to discover how the breed has improved over time, and how more effective use of EBVs could speed up progress and add value within the breed.

TECHNICAL

Genetic index trends Looking at the trend in index values for the Simmental breed since 2000 (Figure 1), we can see that the breed has made progress in terms of both the Terminal Index, and the Self Replacing Index. The breed averages (Mean EBV) for the Terminal and Self Replacing index have each increased by over 50%. For each index, animals that were within the top 10% of the breed in 2000, would find themselves in the bottom 20% of the breed by today’s standards.

Breed strengths In figure 2, we can see that over the past 20 years, the traits where we see the biggest improvements have been terminal traits such as weaning weight, yearling weight, and finishing weight, where genetic gains have increased by approximately 40% between 2000 and 2018. On the maternal side, milkiness remains a strength of the Simmental breed, where the breed average EBV has increased by 50% since 2000.

The Simmental has a recognised reputation for being an easy calving breed, and this may become an increasing challenge to take sight of and maintain if the current genetic trends for birth weight and direct calving ease continue. Both the calf and the dam have an effect on overall calving ease, the calf through its size and shape (the ‘direct’ component), and the dam through her pelvic size and shape (the ‘maternal’ component). The calving ease daughters EBV is made up of the maternal genetic component, plus ½ of the direct genetic component for calving ease. The increase we see in calving ease daughters over time will be driven by the maternal genetic component of this EBV. The other potential challenge is the EBV for mature cow size, where we see the breed average EBV increasing by over 1kg per year. Despite larger cows generally producing progeny with higher carcase weights, these gains are outweighed by higher cow maintenance costs, and decreased fertility. The question of “how heavy is too heavy” is discussed in more detail on page 80.

Breed challenges In figure 3 we can see the genetic trend lines for the 4 traits relating to calving: birth weight, calving ease direct, calving ease daughters, and gestation length. Here we see an increase in genetic gain for birth weight, calving ease daughters, and gestation length, and a decrease in genetic gain for direct calving ease. Where there has to be care is in the trends that can be seen for birth weight and for calving ease direct, and particularly in a breed where value is placed on maternal characteristics. The Review 2020

TECHNICAL

How can maternal traits be an issue if the selfreplacing index is improving?

the important first step towards good genetic progress, by not breeding from animals whose genetics are below average.

The Self Replacing Index is designed to rank bulls by their genetic potential for the production of female replacements while producing prime steers and excess heifers for beef production. It therefore takes into account both terminal and maternal traits. It is quite likely that the improvements in the self-replacing index are being driven by the terminal component of this index. It’s therefore important to look at individual EBVs for maternal traits, as well as the self-replacing index when selecting maternal bulls for breeding.

Where do we go now? Trait (units)

Current change per year

Intensity of selection (2019 benchmark)

Milk (kg)

0.14

40%

Mature cow weight (kg)

1.09

45%

Carcase weight (kg)

0.90

45%

Eye Muscle Area (cm2)

0.08

45%

Gestation length (days)

-0.02

50%

Calving ease direct (%)

-0.03

50%

Calving ease daughters (%)

0.01

50%

Birthweight (kg)

0.06

50%

Weaning weight (kg)

0.54

50%

Yearling weight (kg)

1.16

50%

Finishing weight (kg)

1.14

50%

Scrotal size (cm)

0.02

50%

Fat depth (mm)

-0.01

50%

Retail beef yield (%)

0.04

50%

Intramuscular fat (%)

-0.01

50%

Table 1: the current rate of change per year for each recorded trait in Simmental cattle, based on animals born in 2000-2020, alongside intensity of selection that this is equivalent to. Data since 2000 shows that the general strategy employed in breeding Simmental cattle is to select animals whose genetics reflect the breed average or better (Table 1). The breed has therefore taken 84

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Although it’s a great first step, using the breed average as your selection threshold for breeding will set an upper limit to the amount of progress over time. If the breed continues to use “above average” as their selection threshold, while other breeds push towards breeding only animals from (for example) the top 20% of the breed, there is a high risk of the breed being left behind in terms of performance. To really ignite genetic progress in the breed, and ensure that the Simmental retains and kicks on it’s place in the UK beef market, then there is a challenge to hold your breeding cattle to higher standards of performance, and target only the top 25% of animals for use in breeding. At the moment it may not be as easy as you would like to identify these higher performing animals. As with so many things in life, “If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it”. The best way to identify the best genetics within the Simmental population is to encourage widespread performance recording among pedigree breeders.

Take home messages: • Aim high, not average (select within top 25% of breed) • Performance record wherever possible “If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it”) • Keep an eye on maternal performance • Know your market, and breed animals that will excel for yourself and your customers

*The British Simmental Cattle Society uses the Breedplan system which is one of the most widely used beef recording systems in the world. Breeders submit weight and performance data to the Society which is in turn sent to ABRI, the providers of Breedplan, who generate the EBVs across a range of maternal and terminal traits. EBVs are calculated and updated on a monthly basis and fed back to members. Herd costs to performance record starts at £120 per annum. If you are a BSCS member and wish to begin performance recording your herd, please email information@britishsimmental.co.uk and request a Breedplan membership pack.

TECHNICAL

SIMMENTAL #3 SUCKLER DAM BREED FOR CURRENT SLAUGHTER GENERATION

rime cattle slaughter data from abattoirs across Great Britain between 2010 and 2019 shows the Simmental breed is currently the 3rd most popular dam breed for suckler producers, behind the Limousin and Aberdeen Angus breeds, and running neck and neck with Angus for the number two position. Simmental dams accounted for 9.2% of prime cattle slaughtered during this time period. Showing the importance of the Simmental breed in the national suckler herd it is reasonable to assume a significant percentage of Simmental genetics in the non-Simmental sired females.

The Review 2020

TECHNICAL

STEPPING IT UP WITH SNPs DNA parentage testing has traditionally been done with microsatellite markers. These markers are simple repeats in the DNA sequence, and the number of repeats present is highly variable. This high level of variability is what allows us to correctly assign DNA-based parentage using a relatively small number of markers. Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) occur when there is a high amount of variation amongst individuals at a single position in the DNA sequence. There are millions of SNPs present across the cattle genome. Genotyping using SNP ‘chips’ can provide data on many thousands of SNPs at once, as opposed to the small 16 marker panel for microsatellites. As well being used for parentage verification, genotype data from SNP chips can be used to assess animal status for many single gene traits, such as myostatin status, or carriers of disease mutations such as arachnomelia and curly calf syndrome. They are also the technology that underpins genomic selection, which uses phenotype and genotype information on a reference population of animals to predict genetic merit in cattle at an early age. Historically, the cost of SNP genotyping has been higher than that of microsatellite genotyping, however these costs have significantly decreased over time, and are now much more comparable. Moving from microsatellites to SNP-based parentage verification will provide many opportunities to accelerate breed development.

BRITISH SIMMENTAL MOVING ITS DNA SERVICE PROVISION TO SINGLE NUCLEOTIDE POLYMORPHISM (SNP) TECHNOLOGY IN 2021 In a progressive step, the British Simmental Cattle Society will move its DNA services in 2021 from the presently used Microsatellite (MS) technology to Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) technology. The work to make the transition has commenced with the aim being that the new service will fully commence from 1st March 2021. To explain this change as clearly and simply as possible, please see the following Q&A where we have anticipated what we think may be the most relevant and helpful questions:

Q: Why is the Society moving to using SNPs (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism technology)?

Q: Are there any other advantages or benefits that moving to the SNP technology may bring members?

A: There are a few reasons but the first thing to say is that SNP technology provides an improved and robust parent verification test that is internationally accredited. The technology has been used in the livestock industry for almost a decade now and with most of the principle herdbooks, that work with Weatherbys, already having moved over.

A: Yes. As above, the SNP technology will bring improved and more robust sire and parentage verification and is a move forward in technology. The SNP technology will also give the ability to add more to a single test, a parentage plus polled test would be an example of this. Both could be done at one test and as opposed to two separate tests at a greater cost. Members will therefore, in such an instance, make a considerable saving.

Q: What other reasons are there to move to this new technology. A: Importantly, the increasing use of SNP technology at an industry wide level has seen a significant drop off in the use of Microsatellites (MS) for parentage verification purposes. Weatherbys have made clear that the use of MS technology will be phased out and possibly as early as 2022. As use across the industry diminishes then costs for MS may also increase. Given this, it is important and sensible to make the transition to SNP technology in a good time prior to the phase out of MS. 86

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SNP technology will also give the platform from which, if the Society chose to do so, major gene testing can be carried out for a range of such as health traits, traits of economic importance, and for work in genomics generally.

TECHNICAL

Q: What will the cost of DNA testing for parentage verification be to members?

be tested at the present prices. The new pricing schedule will be applicable from 1st March and for samples received after that date.

A: The base cost of SNP DNA testing is higher. After full consideration Council have set the cost of a DNA test for parentage verification at £27.50. This increase is unavoidable but prices are in line with other principle breed society herdbooks. The set price has a small margin on top of the cost price to the Society from Weatherbys. This margin allows the Society to absorb some costs where additional DNA testing is required with regards to sale matters, general herdbook work, and for herd inspection work. As above, where you are requesting a further test such as polled at the same time the overall cost will be significantly lower. For example Parentage + Polled will be £33.00 (£27.50 + £5.50) + VAT which is a considerable saving.

If there are sale or ‘special’ situations where DNA testing is required then consideration will be given to this prior to March but it would be using the existing and in effect ‘old’ MS technology.

As noted in the second question, Weatherbys have made clear that the use of MS technology will be phased out and possibly as early as 2022. As use across the industry diminishes then costs for MS may also have to increase. Q: What work is required from here for the Society to make this transition? A: At present we are testing and SNP genotyping the most commonly used Simmental sires. SNP genotyping these breeding bulls means the bull SNP profiles will be available in the parentage testing data base in advance of the offspring presenting for sire verification. So it is in effect a library of bulls to check progeny against and that has to be established prior to 1st March. Q: How many bulls will require to be tested and who will pay for the SNP genotype testing of the most commonly used sires. A: The Society, in discussion with Weatherbys, are compiling a list of all Simmental sires that have had at least one calf registered to them in the last three years. This will come to approximately 1500 sires. These sires will require to be SNP genotyped with the total cost likely to be £25 - £30k. Again, it’s an unavoidable cost and one which the Society will pay. Q: Why is the ‘new’ service provisionally set to commence from 1st March? A: We want to make the transition quickly to ensure that members are getting the best value by using the best technology. Continuing to use a technology that is getting phased out is not practical or sensible. As noted, work has already started to make the transition. If the hair samples are in the British Simmental sample archive, held in Weatherbys Scientific bio-bank, then these samples can be retrieved and SNP genotyped reducing the necessity to re-collect from animals. There will inevitably be some samples from storage that may not be good enough to use and some bulls where we will have to request further hair samples from breeders. We are taking aim at an eight-week working period to test these bulls and to make the transition from microsatellites to SNP’s. Q: What will happen to the Society’s DNA testing between January 2021 and the 1st March? A: We are asking members to continue to submit DNA samples for testing as would be required. The DNA samples received from now until 1st March will be logged and held, and then tested beyond the commencement date. All samples received up to the 1st March will

Q: What challenges might the transition bring? A: We hope of course for the transition itself from MS to SNPs, and the DNA service provision thereafter, to be as smooth as possible. It is likely, if not inevitable, that challenges will arise from time to time regarding such as ‘older animals’ and embryos in storage. We hope that these will be at a minimum and each will have to be considered on their merits and as they arise. Weatherbys have faced and successfully met similar challenges in other transitions, and whilst we are closer to the MS technology being phased out, we trust that this will also be the case during and beyond the Simmental transition also. Q: What about testing turn round times for SNPs This is an important point. The turn round time for DNA testing should be largely the same as at present i.e. from receipt of the sample, members should have results back within 4-6 weeks. However, please note that the SNP process in itself takes 3 weeks from the time Weatherbys receive that sample, for samples to have DNA extracted and parentage tests carried out thereafter. Therefore, particularly with reference to sale animals, samples will be required in plenty of time in advance of sale dates. Where there are any problems or need for retesting following the initial sample being tested, then at least three weeks is required for a second test beyond receipt of the sample at the lab. Q: Are there any other suggestions for members in collecting samples? A: Yes. If a member is selling/disposing of a bull that has had, or is due to have, progeny registered to him, then it would be good practise to collect a hair sample from the bull. Identify the sample on the bag it’s put in, and keep in a drawer out of sunshine. This could be very important in case the sample held and retrieved from Weatherbys is not good enough to be SNP profiled, or where a bull is having his first calves registered to him. It would be sensible to take a hair sample in this manner from any pedigree breeding animal, male or female, that is being sold or disposed of, just in case there is a requirement for a DNA purpose, now or in the future. Please note, hairs should be collected by plucking (not cutting) from the animal’s tail. This is preferable to hairs from the neck as the root follicles are bigger. It is recommended that 20-30 hairs are required per sample collected. Q: Will the Society be able to help with member queries around this transition now and beyond 1st March? Absolutely. The Society’s staff will be working hard to ensure the ‘new’ service is rolled out as smoothly as is possible and to help members with queries and problems. Many members will remember Bloodtyping being the standard technology. The livestock industry then transitioned to Microsatellites. This move to SNP technology is the next and further step forward in the provision of DNA services.

The Review 2020

Incheoch Maternal Matters EST 2008

Robust paddock-reared BULLS at

WORKING GENES

Mark & Emma Evans Upper Harglodd St. Davids Pembrokeshire SA62 6BX

Annual Sale—September Mostly Polled, bred from Functional, Efficient cow lines ...like Incheoch Keystone PP (left)

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01437 729 248 07968 929 069 DewislandSimmentals@hotmail.co.uk @DewislandSimms

...raising family and making friends’

the McGowan family

Neil & Debbie 07788 100010

Finlay, Judy & Clare: 01575 560236 Incheoch Perthshire Scotland PH118HJ

www.incheochfarm.co.uk Incheochfarm

2019 Overall Champion Herd in Wales Best Stock Bull - Williamswood Iceman 17 (P) Best Youngstock Members of HiHealth Herdcare CHeCS accredited cattle health scheme

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The Review 2020

SIMMENTALS

FITTING INTO ORGANIC, LOW COST SYSTEM IN WEST WALES Highlighting the flexibility and adaptability of the Simmental breed to all systems and geographies, here we feature the organic suckler herd and Welston pedigree herd of Anthony and Harry Davies, Tenby, Pembrokeshire.

elcome to West Wales, where my son Harry and I farm 275 acres together with another 120 rented acres. Our climate is gentle thanks to the gulf stream and ideal grass growing country, which we try to utilise to the max. We carry 105 suckler cows and all followers are kept right through to either breed or to fatten. The farm has been organic for more than 20 years, producing milk, corn and beef. Without the use of chemicals, the farm has thrived with the dairy herd averaging 7800 litres/cow. Clovers – red and white – are the mainstay with arable silage boosting yields. In 2011 we decided to sell off the milking cows and increase the suckler herd. The majority of our beef cows were graded up from the dairy

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herd, and we found half bred cows had loads of milk, whilst the 15/16th cows have a lot more muscle. Each year we try to bull 20 to 25 heifers, and now all pedigree. The simple organic, low-cost system we employ, also helps with a low carbon footprint. Growing clover to fix nitrogen means we are able to graze from 1st March until November in most years. We make our own silage with a forage wagon and spread the manure back onto the silage ground. About 10% of the farm is reseeded each year, following the arable silage which we have gone back to this last 2 seasons. A mix of barley, oats and peas under sown with rye

grass and clover to give cover over the winter. For next year we will introduce vetches and radish for deep tap root penetration of the soil. We also aerate the farm each year to allow oxygen into the soil. Soil health means crop health which in turn means stock health. We originally bought Simmentals in 1987 after using MMB Halo on the dairy cows. Those first cross breds showed to us the growth the breed had, and so our first pedigree purchase was Estelle 3rd and Tascha 14th from the Heywood sale. Then, in 1990, came Revelex Avril 3rd, Avril 11th and Avril 12th out of Fincham Avril ERM. We always look for stock from a very good female line. Fincham Avril should have made Golden Cow, but alas, because she had moved farms, she didn’t have 3 calved cows on the same unit and so missed out. The Avril family went on to produce Welston Frontier Avril who classified EX94. The Tascha family became our firm favourites with Welston Elgars Tascha classified Ex94, and a host of daughters classifying excellent (and maybe one of the first EX Simmentals to breed 3 generations EX). Having bred Holstein for 30 years, Beef Character, legs and feet, body and mammary had improved the dairy herd no end, so we were keen to classify the Simmentals as we are well aware of the benefit. Initially, we had only used AI – Rickardstown Jumbo and Camus Brandy on our pedigree Simmentals. However, we also used Sacombe Wishful Thinking on dairy cows and heifers as well as pedigree Simmentals. Wishful Thinking was a very good all-round bull. We decided we needed our first stock bull, which we found in Ireland when we bought Jennalyn Aspen from Clonagh – a son of Banwy TRex out of Milton Sapphire ET. He is a full genetic brother to Clonagh Darling Eyes. In 2015 we purchased Shiloh Farm Forever Royal, a son of Kilbride Farm Bantry out of Shiloh Farm Royal Babe ET – a Hercules daughter. Royal was Junior Champion bull at Tullamore also winning 8 first prizes that show season. He has bred extremely well for us, being a long bull and has Classified EX 94. He is breeding smaller cows with extra length which is perfect for us. In August 2018, we decided to look for a polled bull which we found in Northern Ireland and came home with Kilbride Farm Hans PP EX93 – a son of Sneumgaard Imperator out of Kilbride Farm Fanni 44 – a daughter of Hoeness. We have used him on the heifers for the last 2 seasons and so far, we have been very pleased with the calves. Our recent Classification resulted in a further 15 cows and 2 bulls going EX. The Classification for these 2 bulls is shown below as well as 6 heifers from Royal – BODY CONFIRMATION

BEEF CHARACTER

LEGS/FEET

MAMMARY

RUMP

FINAL CLASSIFICATION

KILBRIDE FARM HANS PP

EX93

EX94

EX93

EX92

EX93

SHILOH FARM FOREVER ROYAL

EX94

EX95

EX93

EX94

ROYALS PROGENY

84.86

The Review 2020

We aim to breed easy care cattle that don’t cause us problems. So, temperament, milk, growth, and easy calving are the goal. We fatten off grass and silage with a guide cost for grass at £1/kg dry matter, silage at £3/kg dry matter and concentrates (if used) at £5/kg dry matter. However, being organic, we aim to finish off grass wherever possible. Royal’s progeny are grading particularly well as shown below by the kill sheet from a consignment sent in June 2020. GRADE

QUANTITY

AVERAGE WEIGHT PAY WEIGHT

AVERAGE VALUE

PRICE PER KG.

HO CROSS

R4L

338.3

676.6

1522.35

4.5

SO CROSS

440.

1892.

4.3

SO CROSS

430.

1870.5

4.35

SO CROSS

420.6

1850.64

4.4

412.8

1836.96

4.45

R4L

440.

1892.

4.3

R4L

422.2

1857.68

4.4

366.3

732.6

1648.35

4.5

-U3

330.2

1512.32

4.58

-U3

421.1

842.2

1886.53

4.48

-U3

411.4

1863.64

4.53

In January 2019 we decided it might be a good exercise to take pelvic measurements of the heifers. So, Richard Cummings, Cwarre Herd, who is a local vet, came along with a measuring instrument and measured the pelvises of our heifers. Having measured the width and depth at this stage, you can calculate the size of a calf, by weight, that the heifer can deliver without difficulty. We felt this information would be very useful before bulling, in order to calculate what size calf can pass safely through the pelvis. The pelvic area grows at a fairly constant rate from 9 to 24 months of age. Heifers pelvic area increases slightly faster from 10 to 15 months versus 16 to 24 months. The Continental breeds average growth is 0.30 cm sq. Per day and the native breeds are 0.25 cm sq. per day. This relates to 8 or 10 cm sq. increase per month for this period.

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Below is a list, by age, weight and calving history of our results: Welston Herd

AGE IN MONTHS

WEIGHT

PELVIC WIDTH

PELVIC HEIGHT

PELVIS SIZE

CALF

WEIGHT KG

SIRE

DIFFICULTY

COOMBER AVRIL

610

320

HEIFER

HANS

APOSTLE HONEY

560

238

BULL

HARRY

CEASEAR

MANS/MAN AVRIL

578

16.5

280

HEIFER

HARRY

ROYAL TASCHA

560

14.5

246.5

BULL

HANS

PULLED

EDWARD CANDY

514

13.5

202.5

BULL

ICON

ASPENS ANNAKEL

490

238

DEADCALF

ROYAL TASCHA 2

480

210

BULL

NEWRY

ROYAL WELCOME

480

240

BULL

HANS

ASPEN TASCHA

504

240

HEIFER

HANS

ROYAL ANGEL

465

14.5

232

BULL

HANS

EDWARDS AVRIL

404

224

BULL

ICON

ASPEN TASCHA 2

423

14.5

217.5

HEIFER

HANS

ROYAL KARINA twin

338

11.5

161

BULL

HARRY

SLIGHT PULL

ROYAL KARINA 2

350

11.5

161

HEIFER

HARRY

COOMBER ANGEL

13.5

400

12.5

13.5

169

HEIFER

HANS

MANS GENIES

13.5

420

12.5

175

TWINS

HARRY

MANS GRETAL

420

224

BULL

HARRY

PULLED

BULLS

WELSTON IVAR

810

15.5

202

WELSTON ICON

790

12.5

13.5

169

100 cows weighing 700 to 800 kg eat the same amount of feed as 120 cows weighing 600 to 650 kg. and also produce an extra 20 calves per year. Basically, we are currently trying to breed a small to medium cow that is polled, out of dams classified Very Good or Excellent with a self-replacing index in the top 25%. We now have our first home produced poll bull – Welston King Hans – son of Kilbride Farms Hans PP EX93 and out of Curaheen Gretal P EX92 (a granddaughter of Raceview Merle Beauty). He looks very promising. We believe the Simmental has all the leading traits of all the other breeds put together, but also believe that we must get more efficient by breeding a correct cow or bull of moderate size that can wean a calf weighing 50% of the dams’ body weight. Heifers must calve by 2 years old, be easy calving with fewer than 3 to 5 per cent needing calving assistance. They need to be efficient foragers and converters with optimum milk yield. Good Classification will lead to longevity and so more calves produced per cow. Earlier in the year we purchased 6 Stabilizer heifers in order to directly compare the breeds and maybe follow some of their strengths in conversion of feed. Our aim last year was to reduce cow size by about 100kg. For every 100kg reduction per individual, 15% more cows per acre can be carried. We intend to breed moderate cows, that are polled, Classified VG and EX with estimated breeding values in the top 20%. A highlight for us in 2020 was the Virtual Show held by the Welsh Club, with Welston Harry winning overall Male Champion. The Welsh Club was founded 30 years ago and it has been a great way of meeting fellow breeders at home and in Ireland. A few final thoughts. We need to work with our neighbours as one breed. Simmental is one of the largest breeds in the world but we have to be open and mindful that this great breed is slipping behind in the UK. We must look at the work of breeds like the Stabilizers who are measuring feed efficiency, weight trait trend, average weaning and finisher index by year of birth and, most importantly, average profit by year of birth which has improved by 100% since 2010. Stabilizers also claim to be the most carbon efficient suckler cow, and, another milestone, they are now geonomically testing to enhance all their EBVs. Don’t forget, the Stabilizer has Simmental in its makeup! With all our leading traits, Simmental can get back to be THE LEADING BREED. Let’s make it happen! The Review 2020

TYPE CLASSIFICATION IN BRITISH SIMMENTAL

Meurig James, the Head of NBDC, outlines the background and benefits of Type Classification and why he feels it is a management tool for breeding more profitable long living cows.

ype Classification was set up over 50 years ago in order to identify the strengths and weaknesses in dairy cows. Although British Friesians were the first breed to be classified, all the other dairy breeds soon followed with nearly identical systems scoring similar traits. The classification scheme has been a success story over many decades and has made a tremendous contribution to the improvement of herds both on type and production not only throughout the UK but throughout the world. Some 5 or 6 years ago, certain individuals involved in the breeding of both dairy and beef cattle thought that if classification had worked so well in the dairy world then why couldn’t this be the case with beef cattle. Beef Shorthorns were the first beef breed to be scored closely followed by the Simmentals, and we now classify a total of 9 beef breeds which soon could become 12, alongside 8 dairy breeds which may become 9, and of the 21 only 3 or 4 would be dual-purpose breeds. When scoring suckler cows we break them down into 4 main boxes and their weighting of the final score • Body Conformation which makes up 25% of the final score • Beef Character which also takes into account Breed Character and also makes up 25% of the final score • Legs + Feet this is important and has a weighting of 30% of the final score • Mammary has a weighting of 20% of the final score

These 4 composite boxes are made up of different Linear Traits which are measured on a 1 to 9 scale. Breeders and farmers simply need to remember that the 4 composite boxes are never scored in the high eighties and over ninety unless the linear traits are fairly close to ideal.

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Whereas so many indexes are a prediction, classification is actual and I believe that is why they both work well together as a management tool for breeding more profitable long living cows. One of the many benefits of classification is when buying a future Stock Bull at a Society Sale, a particularly important task, the buyer can see the classification of the mother and sometimes 3 or 4 generations. I personally believe that the cow family needs to be at least in the high VG’s which means the high eighties, and into EX which means 90 and above. If you have a problem in your herd for example with legs + feet, then you need a bull from a cow family with a high score well over 90 in legs + feet to improve them, not a bull from a cow that has a high score in the 3 other boxes but perhaps VG 88 in Legs + Feet. Whereas if you have really good legs + feet in your herd and need to improve udders then that particular bull may be ideal. Some of the other benefits include identifying the best females in your herds to breed replacements and of course cows that are scored the highest points more often than not make the highest prices at sales if you sell them. Another strength of the classification system is that we can always change the traits we score and change the weightings of the composite boxes if the need arises, so that we continue improving the herd if certain new weaknesses creep into the breed. The Simmental is an exceptional good suckler cow with great temperament and always does her calf well because the breed is noted for having plenty of milk which means that whether you breed them pure or cross them with other breeds the story will be a success.

Meurig James Head of NBDC.

he BSCS runs a voluntary Female Classification scheme which is carried out by Holstein UK. The scheme allows herds of all sizes to be independently evaluated on their breeding females which adds value to the decisions on which females to retain, and from what cow lines to retain females from. In addition to the use of Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs), to indicate the breeding potential of pedigree stock, the Simmental Female Classification is a further tool to score important commercially relevant pedigree and functional traits, in breeding females.

•

Members have the option to classify their complete herd or start with heifers, with all animals requiring to be in milk at the time of classification. The assessment is broken into four categories, Body conformation, Beef character, Legs and feet and Mammary, resulting in an overall score for the female ranging from poor to excellent.

•

The data is uploaded on to the ABRI data base and Classification scores added to pencards and pedigrees within sale catalogues.

•

The minimum cost is £108 + VAT (includes 15 female inspections), 16th to 100th inspection £7.21 + VAT per inspection, 101st -150th inspection £3.61 + VAT per inspection, 151 animals plus £2.58+ VAT

•

If you would like to classify your females then please contact the Society office at information@britishsimmental.co.uk or on 02476 696513

Females classified from 1.1.2020 to 31.12.2020 with a score of Excellent, Very good or Good Plus ANIMAL NAME

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

ANNICK BELLE’S ENYA

SKERRINGTON VISA

MR L D QUARM

ANNICK TRIXI BELLE 9TH

OMORGA VOLVO

MR L D QUARM

ANNICK RADIANCE’S FLEUR

CORSKIE CALLUM 11

MR L D QUARM

ANNICK LYDIA’S CATHY

ANNICK VALENTINO

MR L D QUARM

ANNICK CLEMENTINE’S FERN

CORSKIE CALLUM 11

MR L D QUARM

ANNICK PRIMROSE’S FOXGLOVE

STERLING NELSON 2ND

MR L D QUARM

ANNICK BELLE’S DESIREE

SKERRINGTON VISA

MR L D QUARM

ANNICK TRIXIBELLE 23RD

SKERRINGTON VISA

MR L D QUARM

The Review 2020

Females classified from 1.1.2020 to 31.12.2020 with a score of Excellent, Very good or Good Plus ANNICK COLLEEN’S GINGER

CORSKIE CALLUM 11

MR L D QUARM

ANNICK TRIXIBELLE 11TH

SKERRINGTON VISA

MR L D QUARM

ANNICK ADELLE’S HOPE

SKERRINGTON VISA

MR L D QUARM

ANNICK FUCIA’S ICICLE

STERLING NELSON 2ND

MR L D QUARM

ANNICK LYDIA’S DIAMOND

SKERRINGTON VISA

MR L D QUARM

ANNICK DUCHESS 14TH

SKERRINGTON VISA

MR L D QUARM

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

RANFURLY HUMDINGER WEIKEL C2

HUMDINGER

ALAN & JULIE WALLACE

ASHFURLY WEIKEL’S ISLA

KILBRIDE FARM WARREN

ALAN & JULIE WALLACE

ASHFURLY WEIKEL’S GORGEOUS

KILBRIDE FARM WARREN

ALAN & JULIE WALLACE

ASHFURLY WEIKEL’S HARMONY

KILBRIDE FARM WARREN

ALAN & JULIE WALLACE

ASHFURLY WEIKEL’S ISABELLA

KILBRIDE FARM WARREN

ALAN & JULIE WALLACE

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

AUCHORACHAN EMILY

94 (EX2)

RABAWN CAESAR KING

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN BRENDA

93 (EX2)

CLONAGH TIGER GALLANT

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN FILLY

91 (EX2)

INNERWICK BORIS 10

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN NANNY 1H

DIRNANEAN BRADLEY 10

D & R DURNO & SONS

ANIMAL NAME

AUCHORACHAN ELEGANT

INNERWICK BORIS 10

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN GIPSY

RABAWN CAESAR KING

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN HAPPY

KILBRIDE FARM BANTRY 10

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN HOLLY

STERLING HERKULES

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN HEATHER

HILLCREST KING

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN FAYE

AUCHORACHAN ACDC 09 9

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN GAZELLE

RABAWN CAESAR KING

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN EMPRESS

BRINKTON BRILLIANT

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN GETTA

RABAWN CAESAR KING

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN HILLY H1

TEAM FERGUS 14

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN NANNY 4

TEAM FERGUS 14

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN WEIGELA 2

LINDE GENERAL

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN HILLY 14

TEAM FERGUS 14

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN MADIE 1H

DIRNANEAN BRADLEY 10

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN HILLY H2

TEAM FERGUS 14

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN MADIE H2

TEAM FERGUS 14

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN HELLS BELLS

AUCHORACHAN ACDC 09 9

D & R DURNO & SONS

AUCHORACHAN MADIE 3

TEAM FERGUS 14

D & R DURNO & SONS

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

BLACKFORD ELLIE 2

92 (EX2)

DRUMSLEED BONANZA 10

MR W G MACPHERSON (A FIRM)

BLACKFORD EBONY

DRUMLONE ANCHOR 09 9

MR W G MACPHERSON (A FIRM)

BLACKFORD HYALITE

KILBRIDE FARM DOUBLEACTION 12

MR W G MACPHERSON (A FIRM)

BLACKFORD HELMA

HOCKENHULL WATERLOO

MR W G MACPHERSON (A FIRM)

BLACKFORD ILMA

BLACKFORD GALAXY 15

MR W G MACPHERSON (A FIRM)

BLACKFORD ICLAIR

HOCKENHULL WATERLOO

MR W G MACPHERSON (A FIRM)

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER J DAVID LOFTUS

ANIMAL NAME

ANIMAL NAME BLACKPOOL WHATSIT

LAMHOJ SUPERY

BLACKPOOL BLUEBELL

BLACKPOOL RAWHIDE

J DAVID LOFTUS

BLACKPOOL GWENTH

BLACKPOOL ELY 13

J DAVID LOFTUS

BLACKPOOL GINGER

BLACKPOOL CARLETON 11

J DAVID LOFTUS

BLACKPOOL HOSANNA

BLACKPOOL ELY 13

J DAVID LOFTUS

BLACKPOOL HYACINTH

ISLAVALE ELDER 13

J DAVID LOFTUS

BLACKPOOL ISLA

BLACKPOOL ELY 13

J DAVID LOFTUS

BLACKPOOL GLADIOLI

BLACKPOOL CARLETON 11

J DAVID LOFTUS

BLACKPOOL HAYLEY

ISLAVALE ELDER 13

J DAVID LOFTUS

BLACKPOOL HEIDI

ISLAVALE ELDER 13

J DAVID LOFTUS J DAVID LOFTUS

BLACKPOOL HONEY

BLACKPOOL EDAN 13

BLACKPOOL GAYNOR

BLACKPOOL ELY 13

J DAVID LOFTUS

BLACKPOOL HILARY

ISLAVALE ELDER 13

J DAVID LOFTUS

BLACKPOOL IRENE

BLACKPOOL ELY 13

J DAVID LOFTUS

BLACKPOOL FENELLA

BLACKPOOL CHRISTIAN 11

J DAVID LOFTUS

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

Females classified from 1.1.2020 to 31.12.2020 with a score of Excellent, Very good or Good Plus BLACKPOOL GEORGIE

BLACKPOOL ELY 13

J DAVID LOFTUS

BLACKPOOL HARRIETT

BLACKPOOL ELY 13

J DAVID LOFTUS

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

ANIMAL NAME BOARS HEAD KARINA

SEAVIEW PRINCE CHARMING

MR R J GRENHAM

BOARS HEAD MEIERISLI 4TH

SEAVIEW PRINCE CHARMING

MR R J GRENHAM

CLONAGH BUCKAROONEY TRUELY

MR R J GRENHAM

DRUMSLEED EXPLOSION 13

MR R J GRENHAM

SIRE

OWNER PAUL CADE

BOARS HEAD KARINA 5

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

THURSFORD SADIE 19TH

HALENOOK LEX SCRIPTA

HEATHBROW ESTELLE

DARSHAM PLAYBOY

PAUL CADE

THURSFORD DEBS 10TH

HALENOOK LEX SCRIPTA

PAUL CADE

BOARS HEAD NELLY 7

ANIMAL NAME

DIRNANEAN ABBA A9

BURNDENNETT SPAIN

PAUL CADE

BURGHBRIDGE HENRIETTA 11TH

CORSKIE FREDDY 14

PAUL CADE

HEMINGFORD GERRY

CORSKIE DREAMER 12

PAUL CADE

BEETLEY HONEY HONEY

KILBRIDE FARM VAN GOGH

PAUL CADE

THURSFORD SADIE 39TH

SCOTLAND HILL CAIRO 11

PAUL CADE

HEATHBROW INGRID

CELTIC COMET

PAUL CADE

CHELLSWOOD GLENDA

DINTON BEAVER 10

PAUL CADE

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

STERLING EMPIRE 13

MENDICK BUTCH 10

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN GIBBLE 15

LISGLASS DOMINO 12

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

KILBRIDE FARM DORA 62D

CAIRNVIEW SNAZZY

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN WICK NERYS 2

KILBRIDE FARM WICK

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN RINGLEADER TRACEY 10

BLACKFORD RINGLEADER

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

ANIMAL NAME

CHESTERMANN BERNARD STELLA

CHESTERMANN BERNARD 10

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

WILLIAMS SNOWQUEEN 8TH

HEATHBROW TRISTAR

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

ANNICK EASTER’S-GINNY

STERLING NELSON 2ND

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN RINGLEADER LULU 3

BLACKFORD RINGLEADER

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN EMPIRE SAGE

STERLING EMPIRE 13

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN DATA NON 4

OVERHILL HOUSE DATA 12

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN RINGLEADER STELLA

BLACKFORD RINGLEADER

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN RINGLEADER NATALIE 4

BLACKFORD RINGLEADER

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN EMPIRE MICHELLE

STERLING EMPIRE 13

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN DATA STELLA

OVERHILL HOUSE DATA 12

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CASTLEWIGG EMPIRE GIRLIE

STERLING EMPIRE 13

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN WICK JULIE

KILBRIDE FARM WICK

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN DATA LULU

OVERHILL HOUSE DATA 12

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN DATA NANCY

OVERHILL HOUSE DATA 12

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN RINGLEADER EUNICE

BLACKFORD RINGLEADER

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN DATA MADAME 2

OVERHILL HOUSE DATA 12

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN RINGLEADER KATY 2

BLACKFORD RINGLEADER

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN EMPIRE TRACEY 2

STERLING EMPIRE 13

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN EMPIRE LAVINIA

STERLING EMPIRE 13

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN RINGLEADER MADAME

BLACKFORD RINGLEADER

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN DATA NON 5

OVERHILL HOUSE DATA 12

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN EMPIRE NON

STERLING EMPIRE 13

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN WICK RHIANNON

KILBRIDE FARM WICK

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN DATA TRACEY

OVERHILL HOUSE DATA 12

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN DATA JULIE 2

OVERHILL HOUSE DATA 12

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN DATA JULIE 4

OVERHILL HOUSE DATA 12

CHESTERMANN DATA SAGE 2

OVERHILL HOUSE DATA 12

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

CHESTERMANN EMPIRE NONNE

STERLING EMPIRE 13

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

DENIZES AMAZON 09

MESSRS N & N GWYNNE

SIRE

OWNER

DEERHURST GI-GI 15 ANIMAL NAME

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

COLTFIELD DIANA

SKERRINGTON NOTARY

J C MACIVER

COLTFIELD FIZZY

TILBROOK BASIL 10

J C MACIVER

The Review 2020

Females classified from 1.1.2020 to 31.12.2020 with a score of Excellent, Very good or Good Plus ISLAVALE GINGER 15

CURAHEEN BANDIT

J C MACIVER

ROCKYTOP INVADER 17

KILBRIDE FARM FEARLESS 14

J C MACIVER

COLTFIELD DEBBIE

SKERRINGTON NOTARY

J C MACIVER

COLTFIELD GEMMA

TILBROOK BASIL 10

J C MACIVER

WOODHALL FREYA

CURAHEEN COMMANCHE ET (SV)

J C MACIVER

COLTFIELD ERIN

TILBROOK BASIL 10

J C MACIVER

COLTFIELD HOLLY

TILBROOK BASIL 10

J C MACIVER

WOODHALL ISLA

ISLAVALE FRONTIER 14

J C MACIVER

COLTFIELD JENNY

NEWBIEMAINS COCAINE 11

J C MACIVER

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

ATLOW DIXON 12

J C MCLAREN & PARTNERS

KILBRIDE FARM DOUBLEACTION 12

J C MCLAREN & PARTNERS

ANIMAL NAME ISLAVALE HOOGEE 16 DARGILL I C U

DARGILL IVANA

BROOMBRAE GRAPHITE 15

J C MCLAREN & PARTNERS

DARGILL ISLA 2

KILBRIDE FARM DOUBLEACTION 12

J C MCLAREN & PARTNERS

DARGILL IMOGEN

KILBRIDE FARM DOUBLEACTION 12

J C MCLAREN & PARTNERS

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER MISS S V FRANCIS

ANIMAL NAME DINTON KUNNE 7

FALONDENE CINCINNATI 11

DINTON VERITY 6TH

KEELDRUM CLIO 11

MISS S V FRANCIS

DINTON HENRIETTA 9TH

OMORGA VOLVO

MISS S V FRANCIS

DINTON SADIE 3

ASHLAND TORNADO

MISS S V FRANCIS

DINTON TRINKET 8

CAMUS BEAVER 10

MISS S V FRANCIS

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

ANIMAL NAME HEATHBROW TABITHA LAUBE

94 (EX3)

HOCKENHULL KRAMER

D A & L A SAPSED

HEATHBROW GIRLIE’S FREESIA

93 (EX2)

DIRNANEAN WELCOME 1

D A & L A SAPSED

HEATHBROW IMPORTANT 17

HEATHBROW GRAND SLAM 15

D A & L A SAPSED

HEATHBROW HANNADANTE’S BOUNTY

92 (EX2)

HEATHBROW VANCOUVER

D A & L A SAPSED

HEATHBROW CARAMEL

91 (EX2)

DIRNANEAN WELCOME 1

D A & L A SAPSED

DIRNANEAN CALYPSO D1

91 (EX2)

ARKMILL FRANKLYN

D A & L A SAPSED

DIRNANEAN GIRLIE E31

91 (EX2)

CURAHEEN TYSON

D A & L A SAPSED

HEATHBROW FANCY

DIRNANEAN WELCOME 1

D A & L A SAPSED

HEATHBROW CC FANNY

CELTIC COMET

D A & L A SAPSED

HEATHBROW GENEVIEVE

DIRNANEAN WELCOME 1

D A & L A SAPSED

HEATHBROW GYPSY ROSE

DIRNANEAN WELCOME 1

D A & L A SAPSED

HEATHBROW CRYSTAL STAR

HOCKENHULL KRAMER

D A & L A SAPSED

HEATHBROW ICE STAR

HEATHBROW GRAND SLAM 15

D A & L A SAPSED

HEATHBROW IVORY

HEATHBROW GRAND SLAM 15

D A & L A SAPSED

HEATHBROW IZZY

HEATHBROW GRAND SLAM 15

D A & L A SAPSED

HEATHBROW HEIDI

HEATHBROW FREDDIE STAR 14

D A & L A SAPSED

HEATHBROW HONALULU

HEATHBROW GRAND SLAM 15

D A & L A SAPSED

HEATHBROW HONEY

CELTIC COMET

D A & L A SAPSED

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

ANIMAL NAME ASHLAND ELLA BEAUTY

KILBRIDE FARM AHOGHILL 09

MR GARETH WILSON

BALLINALARE FARM EMPRESS

AUCHORACHAN WIZARD

MR GARETH WILSON

DERRYCALLAGHAN FANCY ME

CORRICK KENTUCKY KID

MR GARETH WILSON

RATHNASHAN KIT KAT CARA

KILBRIDE FARM COMBER 11

MR GARETH WILSON

CLEENAGH TRUDIE 3RD

DRUMLONE ANCHOR 09 9

MR GARETH WILSON

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

ANIMAL NAME MAINVIEW JEZABEL

MILNAFUA GRADUATE

MR A DAVIES

HIRWAUN HELENA

SEAVIEW PRINCE CHARMING

MR A DAVIES

DEERHURST IMPULSE

PENWERN AMBER 09 9

MR A DAVIES

ANIMAL NAME

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

ISLAVALE DANA

94 (EX2)

CURAHEEN BANDIT

MR W S STRONACH

SHACON HANNIBAL 16

KILBRIDE FARM DELBOY 12

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE WONDER 3

93 (EX2)

WOODHALL WALKER

MR W S STRONACH

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

Females classified from 1.1.2020 to 31.12.2020 with a score of Excellent, Very good or Good Plus ISLAVALE ELISHA

93 (EX2)

CURAHEEN BANDIT

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE TOPAZ 4

CHESTERMANN VARNEY

MR W S STRONACH MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE FASHION

92 (EX2)

CURAHEEN BANDIT

ISLAVALE FLORIDA

91 (EX2)

CURAHEEN BANDIT

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE TARKA 3

CURAHEEN BANDIT

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE ELEANOR 2

DIRNANEAN BRADLEY 10

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE DARLENE

CURAHEEN BANDIT

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE TERESA 4

CLONAGH A SUPER STAR

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE CASSIE 3

CLONAGH A SUPER STAR

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE DEBORAH 2

CELTIC COMET

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE GRETEL

CHESTERMANN VARNEY

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE MISTRESS

CURAHEEN VOBSTER

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE FARRAH

CURAHEEN BANDIT

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE NIKKI 4

ISLAVALE DENZIL 12

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE GOTHIC

CURAHEEN BANDIT

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE GAYNOR

DIRNANEAN BRADLEY 10

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE TERESA 7

DELFUR CASANOVA 11

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE GLOSSY

DELFUR CASANOVA 11

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE HARPER

ATLOW DIXON 12

MR W S STRONACH MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE INNOCENCE

ISLAVALE ECHO 2 13

ISLAVALE BECKY 5

ATLOW DIXON 12

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE IDYLLIC

CURAHEEN GIANT 2

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE CHLOE 18

ATLOW DIXON 12

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE ILLUSION

WOLFSTAR ELUSIVE 13

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE CHLOE 10

ISLAVALE DENZIL 12

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE IMAGINE

CURAHEEN BANDIT

MR W S STRONACH

DELFUR WEIGELA C7

DELFUR WILLIE WONKA

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE INNOCENT

ATLOW DIXON 12

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE AMANDA 5

CURAHEEN BANDIT

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE INSTANT

CURAHEEN BANDIT

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE VIVA 5

CHESTERMANN VARNEY

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE ISA

ATLOW DIXON 12

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE AMBER 5

ISLAVALE ECHO 2 13

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE ISLAY

ATLOW DIXON 12

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE TERESA 11

CURAHEEN GIANT 2

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE INSPIRE

ATLOW DIXON 12

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE INSPIRATION

WOLFSTAR ELUSIVE 13

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE IVORY

KILBRIDE FARM BANTRY 10

MR W S STRONACH

ISLAVALE IRINA

ISLAVALE G I JOE 15

MR W S STRONACH

ANIMAL NAME

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

BARN WINNIE

94 (EX2)

PASTUREHOUSE REVEL

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS FANDABIDOSIE

94 (EX2)

LISGLASS CHURCHILL 11

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

HAZELDEN RACHEL 4TH

93 (EX2)

DELFUR AVENGER 09 9

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS FRANGIPANNI

LISGLASS CHURCHILL 11

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS COCOA POPS

92 (EX2)

KILBRIDE FARM RAINMAN

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS FLIRTINI

92 (EX2)

KILBRIDE FARM RAINMAN

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

SKERRINGTON ICEMAN 17

SOWENNA ARISTROCRAT 09 9

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS BESS

91 (EX2)

KILBRIDE FARM RAINMAN

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS GOLDIES JUBILEE

91 (EX2)

NEWBIEMAINS DAZ 12

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

FOLE VIVIAN 55TH

HOCKENHULL WAVELL

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS FABULOUS ME

BLACKFORD ALBATROSS 09

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS HOTTOTTIE

NEWBIEMAINS EMPIRE 13

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

MOORGLEN HILLBILLY

ANATRIM BODYBUILDER

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

WOODHALL FIDELITY

90 (EX2)

CURAHEEN COMMANCHE ET (SV)

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS GIVE IT BAM

90 (EX2)

BLACKFORD ALBATROSS 09

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

HERMITAGE GRACE

90 (EX2)

FEARNA COMMANDER

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS HIGHLAND WYNN

NEWBIEMAINS ALBERT 09

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS HOTPANTS

LISGLASS CHURCHILL 11

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS HALFMOON

LISGLASS CHURCHILL 11

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS HATTIE

LISGLASS CHURCHILL 11

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

MOORGLEN GOLDEN HONEY

DELFUR T-BONE

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

SCARTHINGWELL VERONICA

CAMUS BRANDY

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

The Review 2020

Females classified from 1.1.2020 to 31.12.2020 with a score of Excellent, Very good or Good Plus NEWBIEMAINS GEM

LISGLASS CHURCHILL 11

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

WOODHALL HELGA 16

CURAHEEN EMANUEL

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

DEERHURST ISABELLE

BLACKFORD FINDHORN 14

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

SCARTHINGWELL CLOVER

ARDO FIGARO

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

WOODHALL GLADYS

RACEVIEW ALL-STAR KK

NEWBIEMAINS GOLDIES SPECIAL ONE

NEWBIEMAINS EMPIRE 13

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS HIZZY FIT

NEWBIEMAINS EMPIRE 13

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS IMPRESSIVE

WOODHALL FANTASTIC 14

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS JULIA

NEWBIEMAINS GOLDEN EYE 15

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS FABLE

LISGLASS CHURCHILL 11

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS GOTTA CRACKER

BLACKFORD ALBATROSS 09

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

SCARTHINGWELL HONEYSUCKLE

AUCHORACHAN WIZARD

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS INGOT GOLD

NEWBIEMAINS GOLDEN EYE 15

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS IONA

NEWBIEMAINS GOLDEN EYE 15

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS JENNA

NEWBIEMAINS GOLDEN EYE 15

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

WOODHALL GINGER

RACEVIEW ALL-STAR KK

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS HOPE&GLORY

LISGLASS CHURCHILL 11

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS ILLUMINATE

WOODHALL FANTASTIC 14

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS ICE TEA

WOODHALL FANTASTIC 14

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS HIGHLAND HAMISH 16

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS JUDY

NEWBIEMAINS ILLICIT

NEWBIEMAINS ALBERT 09

NEWBIEMAINS IRISH CRYSTAL

NEWBIEMAINS ALBERT 09

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS ICE NICE WAG

WOODHALL FANTASTIC 14

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS I’M A LADY

NEWBIEMAINS ALBERT 09

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS HIGHLAND HAMISH 16

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS JENNIFER

NEWBIEMAINS JOY

ISLAVALE FRONTIER 14

MOORGLEN HIT THE DIFF

ISLAVALE CRACKER 11

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS ICANDY

WOODHALL FANTASTIC 14

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS JAM TART

WOODHALL FANTASTIC 14

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS IRIS

WOODHALL FANTASTIC 14

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

NEWBIEMAINS ISA

WOODHALL FANTASTIC 14

JIM & PATRICIA GOLDIE

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

ANIMAL NAME RANFURLY WEIKEL 11TH D3

HILLCREST CHAMPION

MR WD & JD HAZELTON

RANFURLY KLEEB 32ND D14

92 (EX2)

WHITEMIRE KING KONG

MR WD & JD HAZELTON

RANFURLY WEIKEL 13TH E17

RACEVIEW KING

MR WD & JD HAZELTON

RACEVIEW FANCYWINTY 652 ET

HILLCREST CHAMPION

MR WD & JD HAZELTON

RACEVIEW GOLDIE DREAMER

KILBRIDE FARM BANTRY 10

MR WD & JD HAZELTON

RANFURLY WEIKEL 23RD I11

RACEVIEW KING

MR WD & JD HAZELTON

RANFURLY WEIKEL 20TH H6

KILBRIDE FARM WARREN

MR WD & JD HAZELTON

ANIMAL NAME

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

REDHILL DOLLY

HILTONSTOWN VALENTINO

D & DM LESLIE

REDHILL CANDY

DERRYCALLAGHAN TICK-TACK

D & DM LESLIE

REDHILL RHONA

WOODHALL BRANDON 10

D & DM LESLIE

REDHILL JILLY

WOODHALL BRANDON 10

D & DM LESLIE

REDHILL JENNY

THURSFORD CASINO 11

D & DM LESLIE

REDHILL GINA

THURSFORD CASINO 11

D & DM LESLIE

REDHILL DORIS

HILTONSTOWN VALENTINO

D & DM LESLIE

REDHILL DILLY

HILTONSTOWN VALENTINO

D & DM LESLIE

REDHILL KYLA

THURSFORD CASINO 11

D & DM LESLIE

REDHILL HAZEL

THURSFORD CASINO 11

D & DM LESLIE

REDHILL BEVERLY

WILLIAMS EDDIE 13

D & DM LESLIE

REDHILL JULIE

WOODHALL EARL 13

D & DM LESLIE

REDHILL HONEY-BEE

WILLIAMS EDDIE 13

D & DM LESLIE

REDHILL IRIS

WILLIAMS EDDIE 13

D & DM LESLIE

REDHILL HOT-CHICK

WILLIAMS EDDIE 13

D & DM LESLIE

REDHILL LAURA

DERRYCALLAGHAN TICK-TACK

D & DM LESLIE

REDHILL HETTIE

WILLIAMS EDDIE 13

D & DM LESLIE

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

SOWENNA TAMAR

MR & MRS HAWKEY

ANIMAL NAME SOWENNA GALAXY

100

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

Females classified from 1.1.2020 to 31.12.2020 with a score of Excellent, Very good or Good Plus SOWENNA GODMOTHER

SOWENNA TAMAR

MR & MRS HAWKEY

LOPEMEDE HONOR

HESTEHAVEN FENRIK

MR & MRS HAWKEY

STRATHISLA HUMBLE’S HARRIET

ISLAVALE DONALD 12

MR & MRS HAWKEY

SOWENNA HAPPY

CURAHEEN APOSTLE (ET)

MR & MRS HAWKEY

SOWENNA HAYLEY

ARKMILL FRANKLYN

MR & MRS HAWKEY

SOWENNA ITALIANA

CASTLEGALE ERIC

MR & MRS HAWKEY

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

ANIMAL NAME BEETLEY BUTTERFLY

WROXALL TRACKER

MR P V JOLLIFFE

MIDHOPE DOLLY

90 (EX2)

CORSKIE WEALTH

MR P V JOLLIFFE

WILLIAMS SNOWQUEEN 4TH

HEATHBROW TRISTAR

MR P V JOLLIFFE

CRACKLEY IRIS 73B

VINGEGARD TEXAS

MR P V JOLLIFFE

STAR GREEN IRIS’ HAZELNUT

WHITEMIRE KING KONG

MR P V JOLLIFFE

STAR GREEN DIAMOND’S HANNAH

BEL DHU CAPERCAILLIE 11

MR P V JOLLIFFE

STAR GREEN DAPPY’S ISABELLA

BLACKFORD HARVESTER

MR P V JOLLIFFE

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

STORERSMITH ELECTRA

94 (EX2)

GLENTURK ROLEX

R & L STORER SMITH

STORERSMITH DARLING

93 (EX2)

STORERSMITH BRAVEHEART 10

R & L STORER SMITH

STORERSMITH DAMSON

92 (EX3)

OMORGA MURRAY

R & L STORER SMITH

STORERSMITH FIREFLY

92 (EX2)

POPES BARCLAY 10

R & L STORER SMITH

STORERSMITH DARLINGS GYPSYROSE

POPES BARCLAY 10

R & L STORER SMITH

STORERSMITH DOMINO

91 (EX2)

GLENTURK ROLEX

R & L STORER SMITH

STORERSMITH EMBER

91 (EX2)

HOCKENHULL RED RUM

R & L STORER SMITH

STORERSMITH GOLD DUST

POPES BARCLAY 10

R & L STORER SMITH

ANIMAL NAME

STORERSMITH FRECKLE

KILBRIDE FARM COMBER 11

R & L STORER SMITH

STORERSMITH GIGGLE

POPES BARCLAY 10

R & L STORER SMITH

STORERSMITH ICICLE

POPES BARCLAY 10

R & L STORER SMITH

STORERSMITH FIZZ’S ILLUSION

POPES BARCLAY 10

R & L STORER SMITH

STORERSMITH DAYDREAM’S INCA

DERRYCALLAGHAN ERNEST 13

R & L STORER SMITH

STORERSMITH HOLLY

LISGLASS BARNABUS 10

R & L STORER SMITH

STORERSMITH INDICIA

WOODHALL FERRARI 14

R & L STORER SMITH

STORERSMITH IRIDESSA

DERRYCALLAGHAN ERNEST 13

R & L STORER SMITH

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

WELSTON ELGAR’S ALPHA TASCHA

94 (EX2)

AGARDSLEY ELGAR

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON FRONTIERS AVRIL

94 (EX2)

CAMUS FRONTIER

MR A G DAVIES

SHILOH-FARM FOREVER ROYAL

KILBRIDE FARM BANTRY 10

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON PERRY’S NERO BESSIE

93 (EX2)

WELSTON PERRY

MR A G DAVIES

KILBRIDE FARM HANS 16

SNEUMGAARD IMPERATOR

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON TASCHA’S TIPPER

92 (EX2)

WELSTON TIPPER

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON ASPEN BESSIE

92 (EX2)

JENNALYN ASPEN

MR A G DAVIES

MILTON APPLE

CAIRNVIEW SNAZZY

MR A G DAVIES MR A G DAVIES

ANIMAL NAME

CURAHEEN GRETTAL (P)

VINGEGARD JERICHO

WELSTON KING KARINA

JENNALYN ASPEN

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON COMBER’S K TASCHA

KILBRIDE FARM COMBER 11

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON KING TASCHA 2ND

BROOKWOOD ALLA KING

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON COPPER’S BESSIE 2ND

BRIDGEMOUNT COPPER

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON KING CLARA

BROOKWOOD ALLA KING

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON COMBER’S HONEY 2ND

KILBRIDE FARM COMBER 11

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON KING HONEY

BROOKWOOD ALLA KING

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON COMBER’S AVRIL

KILBRIDE FARM COMBER 11

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON CINCINNATI ANNAKELL

FALONDENE CINCINNATI 11

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON KING T-TASCHA

BROOKWOOD ALLA KING

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON MANS KAY AVRIL

SILVER BIRCH A MANS A MAN 09

MR A G DAVIES

DEERHURST GWENDOLYN

DENIZES AMAZON 09

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON KING AVRIL 3RD

BROOKWOOD ALLA KING

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON COMBER’S TASCHA

KILBRIDE FARM COMBER 11

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON KING WELCOME 2ND

BROOKWOOD ALLA KING

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON ASPENS T-TASCHA

JENNALYN ASPEN

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON COMBER’S ANGEL

KILBRIDE FARM COMBER 11

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON MAN’S GENIE

SILVER BIRCH A MANS A MAN 09

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON KING AVRIL 4TH

BROOKWOOD ALLA KING

MR A G DAVIES

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Females classified from 1.1.2020 to 31.12.2020 with a score of Excellent, Very good or Good Plus WELSTON KING ANGEL

BROOKWOOD ALLA KING

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON ASPEN’S ANNAKELL

JENNALYN ASPEN

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON ASPENS HONEY

JENNALYN ASPEN

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON ROYAL PRUDENCE

SHILOH-FARM FOREVER ROYAL

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON ROYAL KARINA 2ND

SHILOH-FARM FOREVER ROYAL

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON MAN’S BEAUTY

SILVER BIRCH A MANS A MAN 09

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON ROYAL BRANDY AVRIL

SHILOH-FARM FOREVER ROYAL

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON COMBER’S AVRIL 2ND

KILBRIDE FARM COMBER 11

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON ROYAL BESSIE

SHILOH-FARM FOREVER ROYAL

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON CLIO’S BESSIE

KEELDRUM CLIO 11

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON EDWARD’S BRITANY

WELSTON EDWARD KING 13

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON ROYAL TASCHA 2ND

SHILOH-FARM FOREVER ROYAL

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON ROYAL HONEY 2ND

SHILOH-FARM FOREVER ROYAL

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON EDWARDS AVRIL 2ND

WELSTON EDWARD KING 13

MR A G DAVIES

WELSTON ROYAL AVRIL

SHILOH-FARM FOREVER ROYAL

MR A G DAVIES

CLASSIFICATION CLASS

FINAL CLASSIFICATION SCORE

NO. OF LACTATIONS

BODY SCORE

BEEF SCORE

LEGS SCORE

MAMMARY SCORE

SIRE

OWNER

WILLIAMS BEAUXBATON’S ELLIE

92 (EX2)

CLONAGH TIGER GALLANT

MRS H CLARKE

SALTIRE INNES 17

CURAHEEN BANDIT

MRS H CLARKE

WILLIAMS LORETTE AUROR

91 (EX2)

HEATHBROW TRISTAR

MRS H CLARKE

WILLIAMS SIMONE’S CRYSTAL

91 (EX2)

HEATHBROW TRISTAR

MRS H CLARKE MRS H CLARKE

ANIMAL NAME

STERLING GRACE’S WILHEMINA

90 (EX2)

DARSHAM PLAYBOY

WILLIAMS GIRLIE 1ST

HEATHBROW TRISTAR

MRS H CLARKE

WILLIAMS TOFFEE’S FLUFFY

HEATHBROW TRISTAR

MRS H CLARKE

WILLIAMS WEDNESDAYS GEM

HEATHBROW TRISTAR

MRS H CLARKE

WILLIAMS WILHEMINA’S GINNY

HEATHBROW TRISTAR

MRS H CLARKE

WILLIAMS MALVENAS 9TH

HEATHBROW TRISTAR

MRS H CLARKE

WILLIAMS SNOWQUEEN 7TH

HEATHBROW TRISTAR

MRS H CLARKE

WILLIAMS AUROR’S HEDWIG

CLONAGH DIEHARD GALLANT

MRS H CLARKE

WILLIAMS MALVENAS 10TH

HEATHBROW TRISTAR

MRS H CLARKE

WILLIAMS IMELDA KAT

INGLESTON VODKA

MRS H CLARKE

WILLIAMS CRYSTAL’S HUFFLEPUFF

CLONAGH DIEHARD GALLANT

MRS H CLARKE

WILLIAMS ELLIE’S HONEY BEAR

SKERRINGTON LEGACY

MRS H CLARKE

WILLIAMS GIRLIE 4TH

CLONAGH DIEHARD GALLANT

MRS H CLARKE

WILLIAMS CRYSTAL’S ISOBEL

CLONAGH DIEHARD GALLANT

MRS H CLARKE

WILLIAMS ELSIE’S HALO

DARSHAM PLAYBOY

MRS H CLARKE

WILLIAMS ELOISE’S HOPE

CLONAGH DIEHARD GALLANT

MRS H CLARKE

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The Review 2020

103

SYMA “ LO O K I N G T O B U I L D A

he SYMA is the forum for young members to develop their interest and knowledge in all things Simmental and cattle breeding generally. Hugely important it is a foundation for the development of young Simmental members and the improvement of the Simmental breed in the future. Simmental Young members can be found in all the affiliated Clubs around the United Kingdom and we’re keen to grow SYMA membership and activity. Collectively, with support from the SYMA office holders, and the British Simmental Cattle Society, events are organised at both local and national level and can typically include:

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• National and regional SYMA stockjudging • Exchange visits and trips • Courses in cattle preparation, feeding, halter training, clipping, showing cattle and general stock knowledge • Herd visits and open days • Technical days and online courses on cattle breeding, genetics, EBVS & genomics • Marketing of Simmental cattle and use of online forums for breed promotion • SYMA Social events

SIMMENTAL YOUNG MEMBERS ASSOCIATION

S I M M E N TA L F U T U R E ”

The Simmental Young Members Association is a fantastic forum for you learn more about cattle and the livestock industry generally. It’s a lot of fun, educational, and a great opportunity to meet and mix with people who share a common interest in British Simmental, one of the UK’s leading beef breeds. Want to join the SYMA and help us grow the organisation? Then please contact us at information@britishsimmental.co.uk or on 02476 696513

The Review 2020

105

HATCH, MATCH

Celebrate Lady Barber 100th birthday

Fraser Bruce Campbell May 20

ated John & Val Hollingsworth (Midhope) celebr th 2020 their 50th Wedding Anniversary on 26 Sept

th Delyth Davies 70 birthday

Alexander Jame

s Beattie 16.04.20

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Welcome to

New Members We welcome readers old and new to The Review 2020, and especially those who have joined us during the past year. MEMBER’S NAME

REGION

PREFIX

CATHY ADAMS

NORTHERN IRELAND

FERNBANK

STEPHANIE BABES

SCOTLAND

CORGARY

JAMES BADHAM

MIDLANDS

MAVERSYN

AMY BRICKLAND

NORTH WEST

GREEN FARM

NICK EDMONDSON

NORTH WEST

CRAKESIDE

MICHAEL EVANS

MIDLANDS

WHEATCROFT

IEUAN EVANS

WALES

ALLGO

MARTIN FARRAR

NORTH WEST

MOSSGROVE

MR & MRS J M GROSE & SONS

CORNWALL

TREWARNEVAS

RICHARD H HOLMES

NORTH WEST

LYTH VALLEY

NORMAN & SCOTT INNES

SCOTLAND

GLENINNES

RONAN KELLY

NORTHERN IRELAND

BROOMBEG

SIMON & CARA KEMP

SOUTH EAST

KINGSWOOD FARM

IAN KING

SOUTH EAST

PINKMEADFARM

MELVYN KNOWLES

NORTH WEST

LANDSKILL

CAROLINE JANE LAMBERT

SOUTH WEST

BLUNTSHAY

MISS EMMA JANE LONG

EAST ANGLIA

FRANSGREEN

DAMIEN MCDERMOTT

NORTHERN IRELAND

LEGAMAGHERY

MICHAEL D MCLAUGHLIN

NORTHERN IRELAND

SHODSBRAE

RYAN MORGAN

SCOTLAND

SWANNAY

S & T MORGAN

NORTHERN IRELAND

WEIRLANE

JOSEPH MULDON

NORTHERN IRELAND

BELRAGH

JAMES RICHARD & ADAM MULLAN

NORTHERN IRELAND

CARROWCLADAGH

ANDREW NAPIER

NORTHERN IRELAND

CHESTNUT

NEWTON FARMS

SCOTLAND

BOHARM

DENIS O’KANE

NORTHERN IRELAND

COOLNAMONAN

S P & D A OVENS

SOUTH WEST

WORTHYVALE

ROSS & ELAINE PATTINSON

NORTH WEST

TOPSIDE

AH & VS PICTON

WALES

PLAS

MR J A & MRS J A PRESCOTT

NORTH WEST

FISHPONDS

R W REVELL

EAST ANGLIA

GROVEFARM

MR JAMYS SEMMENS

CORNWALL

BELLHILL

DANIEL SLOAN

NORTHERN IRELAND

TULLYFRAME

ANDREW WILLIAM STEVENSON

SCOTLAND

BENARTY

J & T TROUP

SCOTLAND

LOCHOSKENE

ANDREW YATES

SOUTH WEST

POSIE

JAMES BLOOMFIELD

CORNWALL

CHOON

DAVID FARQUHAR

NORTHERN IRELAND

LILLYVID

DARRAGH GORMLEY

NORTHERN IRELAND

BRANTER

LAURA PURDIE

SCOTLAND

RAVENSCROFT

CALLUM ANDREW LEEDHAM

NORTH EAST

TOMOS GWYNNE

SCOTLAND

TYGWYNNE The Review 2020

107

FAREWELL TO DEAR FRIENDS

HUGO ARNOLD (Past President 1995 – 6)

8th August 1929 – 15th July 2020

y father was born in 1929. My grandparents lived in Cheshire, but my grandfather, having played rugby for Lancashire and cricket for Cheshire, was keen for his son to be eligible to play cricket for Lancashire, so Dad was born in Liverpool. Although he was a keen and talented sportsman, Dad did not go on to play for Lancashire. Instead, he achieved international success in the fields of cattle and turkey breeding. However, in later life, when asked what he was most proud of, Dad said, “my family”. By the time he died, my parents had been happily married for 65 years, having wed in the February snow of 1955, when Mum was just eighteen. They had four children and six grandchildren. Dad’s early life was spent enjoying the Cheshire countryside, where he was introduced to animals from a very young age. His parents had a handful of Jersey cows, which provided enough milk for the entire village. His love of poultry began at the age of two, on a visit to his grandparents in Wolsingham, where they kept hens. Within a few years, he had acquired several incubators and hatching eggs, which he ensured would hatch before the start of each new term at boarding school. At the beginning of the war, when his school was relocated to the Lake District, he continued to enjoy the natural world. My grandfather had wanted his son to go into business in Liverpool, but soon realised that Dad’s heart was set on farming, and so set about trying to find a way to buy a farm. With the help of two friends they eventually purchased Hockenhull, and it was agreed that Dad would run the farm. After agricultural college my grandparents bought the remaining shares in the farm, allowing my father to become the sole owner of Hockenhull.

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The house was derelict and in very poor condition. Many prospective farmers had previously viewed it optimistically only for their wives to reject it. The first few years were very tough, and much credit goes to my mother for initially living in a house with no running water or heating, yet transforming it into our wonderful family home for over 50 years. By 1954, Dad had established Hockenhull Turkeys, with the objective of rearing, processing and selling quality oven-ready turkeys. Every year, Hockenhull Turkeys would enter the annual ovenready turkey classes at the London Olympia Dairy Show and invariably took home a number of cups and awards, including best in show. He became great friends with two other prominent poultry breeders; together, they started a turkey breeding business in order to supply other turkey producers with superior breeding stock. Ultimately this led to the formation of British United Turkeys Limited (“BUT”). In the early days of BUT, Dad had two roles: Director of Breeding, and Managing Director. He handled and selected the company breeding stock, whilst travelling every week from Cheshire to the head office in Buckinghamshire to run the management side of the business. However, at the end of the 1960s, the head office was relocated to Chester, and the company hired a new director. This allowed Dad to concentrate on what he loved and did best, selecting and breeding genetically superior breeding stock. From the outset, BUT aimed to achieve market leadership in the supply of turkey breeding stock to the UK and European markets; and by the early 1990s, it had gained more than a 90% share.

FAREWELL TO DEAR FRIENDS

Meanwhile, in the 1980s, a decision had been taken to establish a business in the largest turkey market in the world, the United States of America, and British United Turkeys of America (“BUTA”) was formed. By the mid 1990s, BUTA had captured more than one third of the US market. Overall, BUT were therefore supplying more than 50% of the world’s breeding stock; which meant half of the turkeys consumed worldwide originated from turkey breeding stock selected by my father, in Cheshire. Unsurprisingly, it was later acquired by Merck, before being sold to the EW Group GmbH in 2005, leading to the formation of Aviagen Turkeys. Today, Aviagen continues to be the leading supplier of turkey breeding stock worldwide. As many of you may know, Dad enjoyed breeding cattle even more than poultry, and he developed a herd alongside his work with the turkeys. Initially, he had dairy cows but was devastated when they had to be destroyed owing to the Foot and Mouth outbreak of the late 1960s. In 1974, he bought his first Simmental cattle and quickly grew to love the breed, spending increasing amounts of time with them. Two of the early cows were Sage, who came from Tom Neilson, and Regina. They both became outstanding cows and formed the nucleus of the herd in future years. Regina was the mother of North Star who, after being a herd sire at Hockenhull, moved to Drumsleed where he proved very successful. She was also the mother of Snow Queen, and of Magnum whose semen was sold worldwide. Sage, a much smaller cow, mothered many herd sires, including Marvel at Blackford and later at Sacombe; Laurel at Hockenhull; Ruskin at Priorton; and Sikorsky at Barclay Taylor’s herd in Shropshire. As well as good strong females, Dad knew that a naturally fleshed, fast growing stock bull was key, and in Overhall Hivy he found just the bull he was looking for. Because of his commitments with the turkey business Dad relied a lot on the help of others, including Martin Shea who also worked for BUT, and Barclay Taylor who helped particularly with shows and sales. The herd had great success at the many shows, and especially at Perth Bull Sales where people would often be waiting for the lorry to arrive with the next batch of bulls from Hockenhull. My father was never a man to claim or seek recognition for his achievements, believing that it was satisfied customers who would determine the success of a business. I feel others are perhaps better placed to speak of Dad’s impact on the Simmental breed in this country, and Barclay Taylor and Billy MacPherson have kindly contributed below. Fittingly, however, his skill, impact and contribution to the UK and worldwide turkey industry were recognised by his peers: He was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Turkey Federation of America, and was honoured in the UK with an MBE.

On a personal note, I felt very privileged to spend nearly 60 years with the most wonderful father anyone could wish for. He was a true gentleman, quiet, kind, and devoted to his family. We have lost a very special father, husband and grandfather who we think about every day. One of the last memories I have of Dad, is of a couple of days before he died: I was able to tell him that Heavenly Girlie, who was a granddaughter of a cow that he had bred, had been made Champion Simmental in the Virtual Show of 2020. Although he was barely conscious, and unable to talk, he managed to give me the most wonderful smile. Our family would like to thank everyone for their kindness and many messages of support, and a special thanks to Martin Shea for his help in compiling this obituary. Our special thanks also go to Phil (‘Lofty’) Ellams, Ken Barnes, and John Wright for all the help they gave Dad over the years, especially whilst they worked with the Hockenhull herd. James Arnold

I first met Hugo in the mid to late 1970s, and was very lucky to do so, as that’s where my education began. Hugo asked me to assist with his cattle at the shows and sales, and I soon learnt what a calm and kind man he was. When we travelled to the shows and sales I got to know him a lot better, and have many fond memories of him and his family. After attending a sale at Northampton in the 1970s, we saw two bulls by Overhall Balmoral with very impressive confirmation. At the next sale at Perth, Hugo noticed there was a young bull entered by the same sire. As we approached the market Hugo got out of the car very quickly. A few minutes later James and I saw him walking back very excited. He said without hesitation, “I have found him, I like him, and I am going to buy him”. That was the start of a dynasty created by Overhall Hivy. A few years later, five sons of Hivy went up to the October bull sales at Perth. Hugo won Supreme Champion, the best group of three, and also top price with Hockenhull Magnum. Luckily, he paid me a percentage of the sale prices. I said to him that it was going to be too much money and without hesitation Hugo said, “Don’t worry you might have to work just as hard next year for a lot less”. That tells you a lot about Hugo. After Hugo’s great dispersal sale at Beeston, we kept in touch several times a year. I was just delighted to be a friend of his and James. When I heard the sad news that Hugo had passed away I planted a tree in our paddock called “Hugo”, out of respect for him. He was definitely the kindest and most honest man I ever met. I can’t see him ever being replaced. Barclay Taylor

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FAREWELL TO DEAR FRIENDS

The first time we met Hugo was on our first visit to Perth bull sales. One pen of bulls stood out, the one from Hockenhull. Hugo was a very quiet man, but he spoke a lot of sense. We went home and did some research on Hugo and his cattle only to discover that he was the top turkey breeder in the world, and his cattle followed very definite lines. Hugo was using his strong knowledge of genetics in both his turkeys and cattle. The next sale at Perth saw Hockenhull Marvel come home to Blackford and Dellfield, and the rest is history, with one of his first sons, Trident, breaking the breed record in 1988. Over the years we enjoyed getting to know Hugo and his family. He was a great character, a perfect gentleman, and was devoted to the Simmental breed. Anybody who had the pleasure of seeing round his herd would have to agree that Hugo’s cows were in a class of their own. The last time Judy and myself visited Hockenhull, in the

summer before the dispersal, we enjoyed a lovely lunch from Geraldine, and a walk through that marvellous herd of cows with Hugo. There was a super three-week old bull calf, suckling Girlie, that we couldn’t forget. A year later, while helping at Hockenhull with the dispersal preparations, Anne phoned home with a tag number of a young bull that she liked and wanted me to look up; it was the same calf, Waterloo. Waterloo was the last Simmental that Hugo sold, and like Marvel, he came to Blackford and one of his first sons broke the breed record again, this time with Capercaillie. So, in 30 years nothing had changed, Hugo and Hockenhull were still behind Blackford’s successes! In the interval we enjoyed sharing stock bulls, and an everlasting friendship with the Arnold family. Billy MacPherson

BRIAN LUNDY

1932 - 2020

rian Lundy, born Littleborough, Rochdale, 1932 – son of Doris and Jack Lundy, brother to Jean and Sheila.

Brian went to school in Littleborough, but his heart from a very young age was set on farming - from chickens in the back garden to collecting waste from neighbours for his pigs. Brian eventually ended up working at Saint Barnardo’s farm and it was whilst working there that he met Mr Penswick. Mr Penswick recognised Brian’s determination and passion for farming and with his help, Brian got in to Windmarley Agricultural College and attained a distinction in his degree in farming. An Agricultural exchange program exposed Brian to a second passion – a love for Denmark. He got the chance to see how a different country had a very different approach to farming and that relationship with Denmark and his Danish friends stayed with him to the very end. Doris and Jack recognised Brian’s passion and commitment to farming too, so purchased Moor Farm

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and moved from Lancashire to Lincolnshire along with his sister Sheila in 1956. Brian was married to Margaret in 1962 – they met at the end of Moor Lane, whilst delivering the milk churns. Margaret worked on her Father’s farm having moved down from Scotland in 1958. Both passionate about farming, their friendship developed and eventually married and became parents to three children – Fiona, Heather and Mark. Brian and Margaret worked hard together to make a success of their farm. They soon went out of chickens and developed a dairy herd. The breeding and development of the British Friesian cow became all-consuming for Brian. He dedicated all of his ambitions into producing a better quality cow that could produce high quality milk in quantity, in conjunction with health improvements such as good feet, good udders, longevity in performance and good fertility. Margaret worked alongside him milking over 100 cattle twice a day. This passion was recognised and

FAREWELL TO DEAR FRIENDS

rewarded by getting some of the highest prices achieved at Yorkshire’s Otley cattle market. He was recognised as a successful British Friesian breeder and his young stock were sought after. On the collapse of the milk trade, the dairy herd was sold and his new passion to develop and breed Simmental cattle took over. This consumed Brian from the 90s right up until his latter years. Brian joined the Society in 1994 having purchased foundation stock from the top herds at the time.His first Simmentals came from the Sapling dispersal sale in Perth and he quickly expanded buying females from the Brinkton, Solway, Agardsley, Sterling, Woodhall and Cleenagh herds. Brian strongly advocated the importance of cow families in breed improvement and from this foundation he developed his own Caistor cow families including Sage, Hannadante, Regina, Empress and Kay. He spent many hours researching suitable bulls to use to develop the herd and was never afraid to source genetics from other countries such as Denmark, Germany and North America. He was also using polled genetics to develop the herd further. Fully committed to breed improvement through technology and science he was a keen follower of the World renowned Dutch geneticist Dr.A.L.Hagedoorn and Brian would often expound his ideas to any younger or older breeders willing to listen. He was an active member for the Simmental Society and he was the founder member of the Eastern Simmental Club and his opinions were always voiced, often influential and occasionally controversial.

Brian had his bloodlines tracing back to at least 10 generations on the farm at one time and his livestock was shown at county level and beyond and surplus stock and bulls were sold at Perth and Stirling auction markets. He has received many awards, rosettes and trophies for his Simmental cattle, both bulls and cows. People would often ask about his hobbies to which he would reply that his cattle breeding and his farm life were his hobbies and livelihood combined. As a result this kept him farming and a herdsman until well into his eighties when in 2018 he suffered a fall from the silage clamp. Most people that knew Brian would remember him as a man that would like to find a listening ear. His good friend Archie, the vet, would say that once he put his elbow on the roof of the car and took his pipe out of his mouth – you were not going to get away quickly!! Brian’s many friends across the UK, Ireland and Denmark will fondly remember a hard working decent man who took great pride in his family and his Simmental cattle. A quote to finish

“End, no, the journey doesn’t end here. Death is just another path, one that we all must take. The grey rain curtain of this world rolls back, and all turns to silver glass, and then you see it” Tolkein

n 13th September 2020 Michael McCloskey (RIP) of Kilrea, Co. Derry passed away at the age of 87. Michael was predeceased by his devoted wife of 59 years on 10th July 2020. Michael was a humble, modest and unassuming man who was very well known in the Simmental World. With a great passion for the Simmental breed, he established the Drumagarner herd in 1974 by grading up with continuous use of top sires. Most of the breeding stock from the herd was sold from home, building up a great local customer base before venturing further afield.

MICHAEL MCCLOSKEY Drumagarner Simmental Herd

1933 – 2020

Michael had great success with the herd at local shows and sales, and often exhibited at Stirling Bull Sales from where he sold bulls into some of todays top pedigree herds. He passed his pride and interest in Simmental cattle to his son Eamon who proudly maintains the Drumagarner Simmental Herd bloodlines. Michael will be sadly missed by his family and all those who knew him but, more importantly, he will always be remembered for the genuine and gentle person that he was. The Review 2020

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FAREWELL TO DEAR FRIENDS

JIMMY JEFFREY 10th September 1926 - 2020

ames Jeffrey (Jimmy) was born on September 10, 1926 and was raised at Deuchrie, an upland farm in the Lammermuir hills, in East Lothian

It was mainly a sheep farm carrying flocks of Blackface and Border Leicester sheep. The Border Leicester flock is still in existence and is the oldest registered flock book. In 1953, Jimmy married Margaret Young and in 1958 followed his uncle into Kersknowe, a productive farm on the Roxburgh Estate, in the Scottish Borders, close to Kelso. Jimmy and Margaret had four children – Elizabeth, Judy, John and Susie. Being not only a keen livestock man but also a moderniser, Jimmy became very excited at the prospect of the importation of Continental Cattle. He had been dismayed with the downsizing of all the native breeds and saw a real opportunity with the introduction of initially some Charolais blood to add size to his herd. He bought six heifers from the third importation of Charolais (due to Foot & mouth, he was not allowed any from the second importation) and so impressed was he that he bought a similar amount from the first importation of Simmentals in 1970. He then bought every breed that was imported but eventually settled on the Charolais and Simmental as the two breeds to develop at Kersknowe. He was very clear from the start that the Charolais was an out and out Terminal Sire but the Simmental had something special in that it was a dual purpose breed, that could also be used to breed replacements over suckler cows. He kept to that mantra over the years and was as keen on the female line as the male. That didn’t however, stop him splashing out when he saw a bull he liked and he built his herd around Lodge Julius who he bought privately after a successful Royal show. By sticking to his principles, he continually was in the top sellers at Perth Bull Sale and actually topped the first ever Simmental Pedigree sale in Edinburgh in the early 1970s at 2,500 guineas and then in 2014 he topped Stirling with Kersknowe Dandy at 16,000 guineas. He was instrumental in taking the Society Sale from Edinburgh to Perth where it flourished. He also set up a marketing group of local farmers along with Messrs Todd, Hogg, Bruce, Bell, Forrest and Dagg in the name of the South of Scotland Simmental Club. I think it’s safe to say they drank more whisky than they sold bulls! There was nothing he enjoyed better than seeing people take pride 112

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in their livestock and it was one of his great pleasures to be invited to judge cattle. He was fortunate to be asked to judge at all four “royals” over his lifetime but still took immense pride in judging smaller local shows where he took the time to speak and encourage all exhibitors. In 1992, Jimmy was awarded on OBE for his services to agriculture and in 2002 the RHASS awarded him the Sir William Young award in recognition of his service to the Scottish livestock sector. Other honours included being Deputy Lieutenant of Roxburgh, Ettrick and Lauderdale. He was also chairman of the Moredun Institute and was instrumental in setting up the Scott Country Potato Producers co-op in Kelso, which specialised in seed potato production. He was a former president of the Borders Area NFUS and for a period was the livestock convener. A favourite calendar event was the Kelso Tup Sales and he attended every year since 1942, when he sold Half-bred and Border Leicester tups. He was a past president of the Border Leicester Sheep Society, as were his father and grandfather before him and like them, kept all the sale catalogues going back more than 100 years. In 2019, he was given the accolade of ringing the bell at 10am to start the tup sales for the various auctioneers. This was a momentous occasion, setting a precedent for somebody other than the Border Union secretary to announce the start of the sale in this time-honoured manner. Some 20 years ago he and Margaret moved to Kelso into a house which overlooked the Tweed Bridge and beyond to the worldfamous salmon fishing Junction Pool and Floors Castle. When at home, he continued to take the papers to Kersknowe each day and keep an eye on the proceedings, particularly when John was away with his rugby commitments. He was also a regular visitor to Deuchrie and even up to being 90 would stay there for several weeks during lambing. When visiting Deuchrie he would return with bottles of fresh spring water, which tasted much sweeter than that from the cold-water tap, especially so when added to his favourite tipple of Johnnie Walker Black Label. One of Jimmy’s traits was that he had the most remarkable memory for people, places and dates and loved to tell a story or tell a joke. Time soon slipped by when listening to Jimmy telling livestock stories about the good old days with a glass of Johnnie Walker Black Label and Deuchrie water to sip at. He lived life to the full and he had even taken in two sheep sales a day or two before he passed away. He has, unfortunately, taken a wealth of knowledge with him.

FAREWELL TO DEAR FRIENDS

TONY HURN 8th February 1936 - 17th Sept 2020

ony was a true Norfolk man, born in King Lynn. When he moved to Twyford, Norfolk, with Joy, his then wife they had 130 acres which was an arable and dairy farm which he farmed single handed. His days were very full from first light to well into the night.

was in his element with like-minded people. The herd had numerous successes over the decades, but the highlight was winning the Royal Show in 1995. The winner being the one and only Twyford Corona who was an outstanding animal who went on to many more show successes.

He was married to Joy for 25 years who he sadly lost to cancer in May 1983.

Simmentals were a huge part of Tony’s life and he served on the council between 1996-1999. He was also the East Anglian Club Chairman for many years. After standing down as Chairman he attended all the club meetings and enjoyed outings such as a trip on the broads or a farm visit.

He had an eye for the Simmental breed and decided to purchase two cows from the Forstal dispersal sale. They were called Lena (IMP.G1976) and Forstal Linda 5th. The farm was in a village called Twyford, hence the renowned name Twyford Simmentals. In 1982 he and Joy met Phillida who was struggling to break in one of Joy’s horses. Phillida broke the horse in and always had close reigns on Tony from that day until his last. It was the following year, December 1983, that they got married. It was the talk of the local villagers saying that the marriage wouldn’t last, that it was too soon after the loss of Joy. How wrong they all were as Tony and Phillida enjoyed 37 years of very happy marriage. Tony and Phillida took over the running of the Phillida’s fathers farm, of 2000 acres, Beck Farm. Included within the 2000 acres were 400 grass meadows which meant they could establish a good Simmental suckler herd. The Twyford Simmental herd grew larger and greater. Shows and sales were of great interest, not just for the participation but to enjoy a good catch up with the many friends within the breed. The endless trips to the Perth bull sales where he

Outside of the Simmental’s and farm life Tony and Phillida enjoyed many holidays, travelling all over the world and their dedication to the breed had them travelling to take part in several world congress trips such as to South Africa, Ireland, Brazil and Austria. In 2008 the World Congress came to Norfolk which both Tony and Phillida helped co-ordinate, making it a very successful event. Tony was a regular at church and held the position of Church Warden for over 25 years Twyford, a role that he took over from Phillida’s father. Prior to this he was a Church Warden for 25 years at Wickmere, Norfolk. He helped maintain and tidy the churchyards. This contribution led to a trip and an award at Buckingham Palace. Some of Tony’s other interests were shooting, horse racing, where he had many shares in different horses, and his beloved dogs, who were always by his side. Tony was a true gentleman and anyone who had the privilege of being in his company will attest to. He is greatly missed by not only the Simmental community but his friends and family.

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The Sacombe herd of Simmentals is one of the original founding herds of the breed.

SACOMBE HERD

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SIMMENTAL BREEDING

Having been one of the founder members of the British Simmental Cattle Society, the Borlase family have stood the test of time in terms of being pioneers of the breed. Here we feature the family’s Sacombe herd and take a look back through the history books of the herd.

stablished on the 4th July 1970, with the importation of four Swiss Simmental heifers, the Sacombe herd, based at Watton at Stone, Hertfordshire began. From that day on, the herd has witnessed countless show wins, Perth Bull Sale championships, a Burke Trophy win and a drive to help new members, particularly the younger generation, excel in the breed. Third generation breeder Bridget Borlase who manages the 350-acre arable and livestock farm recalls how her grandfather, Bert Borlase, was one of the initial breeders who went on a buying mission to Switzerland and selected a number of heifers, one being a cow called Kleeb, purchased for £400. “This was a huge investment at the time, but her progeny went on to sell to America, New Zealand and Australia averaging £4000.” 118

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Bridget Borlase of the Sacombe Simmental herd with her children Sam and Scarlett.

By the late 1970’s the herd was running up to 80 pedigree cows with progeny being sold across the world for between £4000 and £7000. No stranger to the new European breeds, Bert was already running Charolais, Marchigiana, Chianina and Pinzguar cattle, but a shortage of new genetics meant he was looking in a new direction. “He ran the other breeds until the mid 80’s, but a passion grew for the Simmental due to their ease of management and the other breeds were naturally phased out,” comments Bridget. Winners of the Burke Trophy in 2012 were Perrywood Wispa,

Early bulls to leave a mark on Bridget’s own cow, and herd stock bull Clonagh World Class. the herd included an imported The mid 80’s also saw the arrival of another major turning point sire Kimberely, as well as a home bred sire, Sacombe Bernard, who in the herd’s history pages when Bridget’s parent’s Paull and Judy went on to stand champion at the Royal Highland Show in 1977. A purchased Hockenhull Marvel privately from the MacPherson family, son of Bernard, Sacombe Edgar, stood Perth champion and went on to sell 100,000 plus straws for Star Machinery founder, the late Bertie alongside a son of his, Blackford Regent. “My mother and I often debate which has been the biggest turning point for the herd and Watterson. for her it’s Marvel. Without doubt this bull left his stamp on the herd,” Bernard produced amazing daughters including Sacombe Mame adds Bridget. who went on to produce notable sires such as the Perth 1990 By the late 1980’s to early 1990’s the Sacombe herd was running champion and prolific AI sire, Sacombe Wishful Thinking and up to 100 pedigree females having purchased 24 imported females Sacombe Shamus, the 1991 Royal Show champion. “Little did we and were selling some 40-50 bulls a year off farm. “Not only has the know at the time Mame’s granddaughter Perrywood Wispa, which demand switched with the influence of the Limousin, Aberdeenis registered in my own herd, would be part of the Burke Trophy Angus and British Blue market share, but with TB and other health winning pair in 2012 alongside our stock bull at the time Clonagh issues affecting pedigree breeders, I doubt we’ll ever see that scale of World Class, a pinnacle in any pedigree beef breeder’s career,” sales off farm again.” comments Bridget.

A game changer for the herd, past stock bull Clonagh World Class, certainly left his mark on Sacombe. The Review 2020

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Equally, his show career certainly backed up his breeding credibility. In 2012 World Class stood overall breed champion at the Royal Norfolk Show where he also won the coveted Burke Trophy and was male and reserve overall champion at the National Show that year at the East of England. Other bulls of note include Sacombe Nijinsky, Fordpoint Accord, Ranfurly Amigo and Glenturk Nomad, the latter proving to be an influential sire taking the Perth championship and winning the male championship at the Royal twice, and Grangewood William. More recently the family have used Islavale Fagan, Wolfstar Flying Scotsman and Derrycallaghan Gambler and have since used an imported sire Langmose Ludvig, a Danish polled bull which has left tremendous natural muscle and produced a reserve junior interbreed winner at the Royal Welsh last year. Judy and the late Paull Borlase were revolutionary in the early development of the Simmental breed in the UK.

Having struggled to find suitable stock bulls, 1995 saw Paull and Judy Borlase, now at the helm of the business following the death of Paull’s father, Bert, travel to France to the Paris Show. It was at this event that they were impressed with a cow called Charmonte who took her third consecutive championship title at the event weighing in at 1080kg and giving 11,000kg milk. “We returned to France to the Dijon area to view some farms including the home of Charmonte and were fortunate to buy a daughter of hers starting the next generation of imported females at Sacombe.” For Bridget the real turning point in terms of bull use for the herd came in 2009 when Clonagh World Class joined the herd. Bred in Ireland by Garrett and Lyndsey Behan, World Class was first spotted as a young calf at a show and was later secured at the couple’s production sale. “He’s certainly been a game changer for us and my favourite to date, stamping females across the herd. You don’t have to read an ear tag to know it’s a World Class daughter,” says Bridget.

Looking back over the years, Bridget says there are a few memorable summers in the show ring. “Without a doubt, 2012 was certainly a fantastic year doing so well with World Class and my own personal favourite Perrywood Wispa, but in 2016 the herd saw another level of interest as we brought out three junior females all from our original Austrian imported Fani family. Sacombe Flora, Farah and Georgina either stood first or second on every outing and we certainly received some fantastic comments from other breeders,” she recalls. Having not brought any new females in to the herd for some time, 2017 marked a new chapter with the arrival of stockman Jimmy McMillan. That year two females were purchased from the Deerhurst dispersal and on the dispersal of the Sterling herd of Boddington Estates the record priced female, Sterling Bacardi’s Hawaii, joined the herd for 28,000gns, as well as Sterling Petro’s Cairo purchased for 6000gns who went on to win the Royal Welsh in 2018. “I first saw Hawaii as a junior heifer at the English National Show at the Three Counties. I arrived late and saw a glimpse of her after she’d stood junior champion and from that moment, I knew I was going to buy her.”

Two heifers in the Sacombe herd that are direct decendents of original imported females. 120

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One of the herd matriarchs alongside current stock bull Sterling Gino.

Hawaii’s first calf, Sacombe Hawaii’s Jessica, followed in her mother’s footsteps by clinching the junior championship at the Royal Norfolk in 2019, meanwhile Hawaii’s son, Sacombe Kestrel is destined to be an AI sire for Cogent Breeding while Hawaii herself is an integral part of the Sacombe flushing team. Embryo work certainly forms a vital part of the herd’s business structure as Bridget has embarked on an embryo partnership with breeders in Kazakhstan. “We’re working with producers who have a nucleus herd for their 20,000 head feedlots to produce their own stock bulls and semen business.” This has come from a relationship built up in the country by Bridget’s brother William and his son Ben who run a worldwide farm consultancy and mechanisation business. In July 2019, a year after Bridget’s father Paull sadly lost his battle with ill health and on what would have been his birthday, Sacombe Dandelion Oma, a descendent of yet another influential Austrian import, was tapped out as Royal Welsh breed champion and later that day the interbreed champion.

And it’s this side of the business that makes Bridget feel that now more than ever the beef industry has to connect with the British public. “My butchery staff communicate with in excess of 10,000 customers each week and we need to be selling the story behind this great product. Where possible I take every opportunity to speak to anyone from young farmers clubs to the Women’s Institute. “While there’s no doubt it’s been a challenge, we’re continuing to wear the Covid-19 storm well with increased sales for all meat products and the opening of a new meat retail outlet, but if we don’t make the most of this change in perception and desire for quality British meat, we’ll be shooting the next generation of farmers in the foot.” With a strong focus now on the beef retail enterprises, while running a smaller pedigree nucleus herd, the family’s devotion to Simmentals shows no sign of waning as Bridget and Judy continue to run the herd with the passion and devotion which has been a hallmark of their half a century involvement with the breed.

Dandelion Oma has since proved her worth outside of the show ring as she is the dam of Sacombe Juggernaut 19, a bull sold recently to Cogent Breeding and she’s also the dam of Sacombe Kite 19, which was sold privately to the Blackford herd. It’s clear when you speak to Bridget that the passion she has for the Simmental breed clearly runs through her veins. She’s invested her time with the next generation helping the youth development programme, been a council member and judged many regional and national shows, the Stirling Bull Sales and all the major calf shows. But on top of running the herd as well as keeping an eye on the management of her mother’s farm in Shropshire, she is running a successful meat retail business under the name of Bridget B’s alongside her partner James. Having started with a farm shop in 2005 with a turnover of £20,000 the business now has four retail outlets with a turnover of more than £2 million.

Sacombe Kite 19, recently sold to the Blackford herd, is a son of the Royal Welsh interbreed and National Show champion, Sacombe Dandelion Oma. The Review 2020

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BRITISH SIMMENTAL 1970 – 2020 A ‘snapshot’ walk through of fifty years in pictures

n 1970, the first importation of Simmentals into the United Kingdom arrived from Switzerland, to Lowestoft, Suffolk, and comprised of 34 males and 220 females. It was the first and most significant step, taken by those early pioneers with vision, commitment, and huge livestock ability, in the development of British Simmental to its sustained position as a leading beef breed in the UK beef industry. Today, on the basis of BCMS Simmental sired passports issued each year alone, the Simmental ‘industry’ in the UK is worth in excess of a conservative £100 Million annually. Sales of pedigree Simmental bulls and females year on year, driven by demand from commercial and pedigree producers, typically gross approximately £2 Million. Over fifty years of skilled breeding and selection, the breed has evolved into a unique and distinctive type with British Simmental now the largest population of the breed in Europe and with a growing demand for British Simmental genetics worldwide. British Simmentals are versatile and are proven to complement all breeds. Packed with maternal traits they are easy calving, maternal milky mothers, produce beef from grass and are easy fleshing. Fast growing cattle, with terrific weight for age and conformation, Simmentals are long lasting functional cattle. These are the strengths upon which the breed found favour with both the beef and the dairy sectors since importation and are still as relevant today. Recently released industry data shows that the Simmental is the UK’s No. 1 Continental Beef Breed for age at slaughter. Added to these typical breed strengths, British Simmental is highly marketable as a

naturally efficient breed, producing a profitable green beef product that is in spec with modern industry requirements. In 2021 Simmental is ranked as the third most popular dam breed for suckler producers and, given its complementarity with other breeds, with a heavy influence of genetics in the non-Simmental sired females. It’s a terrific platform from which to take aim with confidence at the next chapter that lies ahead for the breed. A World Simmental survey in the 1980’s said the Simmental was “one of the breeds most free from structural defects and genetic weaknesses”. It’s a statement that stands good today. Natural efficiencies, genetic strengths, profitable green beef production, and genetic strengths. Simmental, a breed for the future. We hope you enjoy this ‘snapshot’ pictorial history of the breed, the people, and the Society since 1970. From the first official Society meeting on August 25th 1970, we walk through the years and look at landmark events like Simmental ’78 at Bingley Hall; the World Congresses held in 1982 and 2008; the first animals shown and sold in the UK; breed record holders; and influential sires and dams. As is always the case, people are the strength of the breed and the Society and we’ve tried to feature many individuals who in some way have played a part in the rich history of British Simmental. It’s been a challenging but hugely enjoyable task and, with so much to cover we know there may be omissions but hope that the following pages brings back memories for some, and paint a picture of British Simmental for many.

Iain Kerr

BSCS General Manager

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Blackford Findhorn at 18,000gns led a then autumn breed record average of £5969 for Simmental bulls, at Stirling in October 2015.

1974, the first Simmental Royal Show Champion, Mr Robert Vigus’s Meierisli. and bred by JL&CJ Lisglass Goldstar, owned by Gordon Clark, Fife, ion in 2020. Champ ntal Simme an Europe d crowne Weatherup,

the Dick Howard of d the Matching herd an sident Society’s first Pre 1970-72.

Kilbride Farm Foreman from the Robson family sold for 21,000gns to Clive Houldey, to lead the February 2016 Simmentals at Stirling.

Ardo Figaro, Perth 1978 Champion. Sold for 2,200gns when the breed sale average was 866gns.

2010, Auchorachan Wizard, from D & R Durno, Auchorachan Simmentals, sells to Joe Wilson, Ballinala re Simmentals, for 20,000gns at Perth in February.

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Dirnanean Nugget from F McGowan, sold at Perth in Feb 2008 for a then breed record 8,500gns to Russell Taylor, Moncur Simmentals.

First import of Simmentals from Switzerland 1970 at Lowestoft, Suffolk. 34 males and 220 females were included.

The Simmental National Shows have proved popular. Pictured is the 2016 English National Champion Midhope Bright Light.

Annick Talisker from L Qua rm sells at Perth Feb 2008 for 20,000gns to Woo dhall Simmentals.

Billy MacPherson, a prolific and influential Simmental breeder producing a roster of top quality cattle from his Blackford Herd.

2000 Royal Smithfield Show, Aber nyte King, owned by Mr David Sinclair CBE, won the Interbreed steer award at Royal Smithfield.

Banwy T-Rex, bred by RE Jones, Welshpool, sold for £8500 at Perth in Nov 2007 and made a big mark in the Clonagh Herd, S Ireland.

John ‘Tosh’ MacIntosh, pictured in 1990, one of the most prolific commercial buye rs and users of Simmental bulls in Scotland.

Bel-Vale Astro, a Canadian import selected for the Society’s Polling programme in 1983.

Bob Vigus of the noted Revelex herd and BSCS President 1974-1976.

Robson family mber from the Kilbride Farm Co ng in October rli ,000gns at Sti who sold for 20 ntals. me od’s Popes Sim 2012 to the Wo

In 2006, Atlow Rhians Valentine from D & S Donnelly, wins the Roy al Show Interbreed for the second time, a firs t by a Simmental ani mal.

was Lopemede Idaho 17 (PP) bred by J Rixon Ltd, Thame, May sold for a centre record 8400gns at the Worcester Sale 2019, to Mr Patmore, Saffron Waldon (Norman).

Auroch Eve, from the Denizes herd of M Bar low, double RHAS Suprem e Champion in 2015 & 2016.

Blackford Trident, from Billy MacPherson sells at Perth, Oct 1988, for the then breed record of 14,000gns to SMMB

ws first Golden Co e of the breed’s lves in all. ca 16 Kair Tzigaine, on d Ha . 74 pion in 19 and RHAS Cham

0gns in , sold for 22,00 Mr DC Houldey m S Ireland. fro n, e, ha om Be G ns of rd Manor Park Ha the Clonagh he to , ng rli Sti at October 2017,

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y, nken-Frisb om MJ Bra en breed lomon, fr th a So r u fo lie 88 ur C s. b 19 at Perth Fe s to Strathisla Farm Leics, sold ,200gn record 10

e, sold at Perth , from Cecil McIlwain Corrick Kentucky Kid 000gns to AR 21, of ord rec ed bre n Feb 2001 for the the Simmentals. Clements, Darsham

John Dykes, Mendick herd and BSCS President 2005-2006.

1989 Burke Trophy winning team of Sterling Parliamentarian and Stuartslaw Melody.

Cherkley Hilary & Brundish Roanna sold to Lloyd Powell, USA at the Spring Special 1985 for a then record female price of £9,450.

featuring in both ’s top stockmen, One of the breed d wins. Jimmy ree erb int d show sale top prices an in 2017. ed tur ily pic MacMillan & fam

Hector Macaskill of the note d Woodhall herd and BSCS President 200 9-2010.

1978, Teviot Golfer from Rob in Bell, Teviot Simmentals, Kelso, sells for a then breed record 4,50 0gns at Perth to Maitland Farm s, Errol.

Heathbrow Important 17, from D& L Sapsed, Great Yorks 2019 Interbeed Supreme

GYS 2019, Interbreed Team of Four Winners, Heathbrow Important, Kennox Diva’s

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Islavale Heston 16 from the Stronach family, sold at Stirl ing Feb 2018 for 24,000gns to R McC ulloch, Overhill House Herd .

Champion.

Gena, Popes Nellys Ilia & Heathbrow Jasmine.

Putting Simmentals on the map in the Sou th West. Chyanhal No from Penny Lally, 200 ah, 3 Interbreed Champio n at the Royal Cornw all.

Harvey Wood, pictured in 1993, a familiar face in show rings and a highly respected Simmental stockman.

1986 and boxer Frank Bruno, training on Simmental beef, meets Sterling Parliamentarian. Oct Hugo Arnold sells at Perth Hockenhull Magnum from ft Sires. ncro Avo to rd, reco d bree 1983 for 7,500gns, a then

Nosca Bacchus, pictur ed in 1993, one of the bulls in the Society’s Simmental MOET (Mu SAC ltiple Ovulation Embry o Transfer) project.

sign, still ng’ Heywood En The ‘easy calvi ars of age. ye 16 at d stu croft AI worked at Avon

in Perth 1977 and Sacombe Edgar, Champion bull in N Ireland. went on to be an influential

Rob Hewlett of the highly noted Sterling herd, Boddington Estates, in Simmental judging action at Worcester in 2019.

Simment as an ‘all-time rvel, described Ma and ll eld hu llfi en De ck Ho ll in the mendously we combe herd. great’. Bred tre Sa e th in o als s, and Blackford herd

Overhill House Guiness from Richard McCu lloch, the top price of 21,000gns at Stirling in Feb 2017 and bough t by A Thomson, Glasgow.

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Robin Boyd of the noted Slievenagh herd, and the Society’s President between 2017 -2018.

Bosahan Dynamo 12, from Mr & Mrs J Olds, sold for a Bristol Sale centre record of 9,600gns in 2014 to the Denizes herd of Mr M Barlow.

Vale Royal Heavenly Girlie from James Arnolds wins the Championship at the Society’s first ever BSC S Virtual Show in 2020.

David Donnelly of the highly noted Atlow herd and BSCS President 20152016.

a fantastic parade Simmentals putting on Show and at the 1995 Royal Welsh breed in the UK. marking 25 years of the

Plurenden Geraldo, sold for a breed record of 4000gns at Perth in 1979, Sup Champion at RHAS in 1980, and a star attraction as a commercial sire at the 1982 World Congress in the UK.

r a breed Moore, sold fo from HJW &JC Feb 2007. on in ms Sa rth Pe ga or at Om rms to Strathisla Fa ns 0g t. ,00 se 22 o d als recor £4487 eed Average of A new record br

Greenside Trixie Belle 3rd from Mr & Mrs D Mills sold for 10,800gns, a then breed record heifer price, at the Yanley Sale in 1997.

Wolfstar bulls from Mr A King take top two prices of 18,000 & 17,000gns at Stirling, Feb 2020. Wolfstar Jackaroo pictured.

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Another noted Simmental prepares stockman, Richard Davies is to meet Prince Charles who l win. congratulating a Simmenta

Gretnahouse Supersonic, the second most prolific Simmental bull in the history of the Simmental herdbook.

Heywood Talent fro m Frank Baker, sold at Perth Oct 1988 for 18,000gns, a then breed record price, to Boddington Estates.

F McGowan, sold in Stirling Dirnanean Bradley 10 from ns to Corskie Simmentals. 00g 22,0 for Oct 2011

A breed record averag e of £6236 set at Stirling Feb 2012. Gra ngewood Baron, fro m Mr & Mrs A&Y Leedha m topped at 19,000 gns.

e in the Woodhall sal breed record, at . d £5030, a then ped at 16,000gns top lf, ca r ife 31 cows average he r he Charmaine, and 2016. Woodhall

October

Iain Green of the prolific Cors kie herd and the Society President 2013 -2014.

Dan Evans of the noted Wroxall herd and BSCS President 2007 - 2008.

ental g a great interest in the Simm Her Majesty the Queen takin 2004 RASE. the at ness Lun Bob with breed and in discussion

Overall Champion Co rskie Gingersnap, fro m Corskie Simmentals sold for 25,000gns at Stirling Oct 2016, to the Popes Simme ntal herd.

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tical, bred by SV The easy calving Dinton Nau us in 2003. Francis and purchased by Gen

Robin Forrest of the Stuartslaw herd (left), BSCS President 1983-84, receiving an award from Mr Robert Hitchins.

ing Feb 2013 for the still Anne MacPherson sold at Stirl Bel Dhu Capercaillie 11 from ls & Smallburn Farms. enta Simm kie Cors to 00gns standing Breed Record of 45,0

Slievenagh Talisman from Robin Boyd who sold for 20,000gns at Perth in 2007 to RH Widdicombe, Starline Simmentals, Devon.

dy, the NI Male of the Year

The influential Camus Bran

t promotions of the breed

l clubs, have provided grea

by the Society and regiona Commercial open days, held

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1993, 1994, 1995.

in action. John Thornhill of the Poynton herd, BSCS President 200 1-2002

Popes Princess Cleo, the 2017 An outstanding Champion, ed Supreme Champion. Great Yorkshire Show Interbre

g Simmental 2015 - Analysin and costings ce an rm rfo pe nitor Farm Mo e th h ug thro Willison’s Ian at ct proje , Notts. rm Fa od wo Williams

The Evans family, Wroxall herd - three generations helped host the final visit of the 2008 World Congress.

Royal Show 1984 - Simmental were the first beef breed in the world to bring production standards to the show ring.

Dirnanean Grafter from Neil A. Shand, Cairnorrie Simmen tals, (bred by F. McGowan) sold to Strathisla Farms for 20,000gns in Feb 2017.

elma club stalwart Th herd, presents NI ard 2012. aw ar Ye Pat Kelly, Ashland the of Club Member Gorman with the

International delegates mee

t at the Scottish Parliament

during the 2008 World Simm

ental Congress.

Perrywood Wispa & Clonagh World Class, Burke Trophy winners at the 2012 Royal Norfolk Show.

Duchess of Devonshire address delegates at the 1982 World Simmental Congres s held in the UK.

The NI Simmental Clu b have been prolific fund raisers for Air Ambulance NI and have raised in excess of £100,000.

mpions Strathisla Mira 20

RHAS 1995 - Interbreed Cha

rd air Angela & Sterling , Glenturk Glenda 3 , Tilly

Alex.

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Corskie Cegem, Mr WJ & JI Green, Interbreed Junior Champion at the 2013 Royal Highland Show. The Society’s office headquarters in 1972.

turk

, Glen with Brian Allan Harry chatting 08. A young Prince Congress in 20 al nt me Sim World herd, at the UK

1971 First meeting of Simmental

from Adrian Cleenagh Avon 0gns at the ,00 12 for Richardson sold Elite sale. ry sa er 2010 NI Anniv

Club in NI.

The Moffatt family of the noted Innerwick herd who were farm hosts during the 2008 World Congress in the UK.

Wasdale Target, a Genus top progeny tested bull for growth and carcase in 1994.

used bull in th erate, the most Ranfurly Confed 2019 & 2020. th bo in ok bo Simmental herd

1990 and the first Simmental bull through the sale ring at the new Perth market.

David & Joy Lowry, (left ) Keeldrum herd, judges at the Pre World Congress Show and Young Handlers at Omagh 2008.

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Paull Borlase of the noted Sacombe her d which also celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2020.

n, Int rth. Pistyll Sio als selling at Pe g for 7500gns. Welsh Simment llin se d an 07 ll in 20 & Reserve Overa

BSCS President Dick Howard with the Duke of Edinburgh at the 1972 Royal Show.

Phillida lifetime. Tony & The dream of a 95 in the 19 in l ya Ro e Hurn winning thth with niversary year . Society’s 25 an Twyford Corona

Champion

F McGowan with Stuartslaw Jose ph, Supreme Champion at World Congress Show held at the Royal Show 1982 being presented with award by Duchess of Devonshire.

ton Estates Sterling Celia’s Fifi, at the herd dispersal sale for Bodding hour or two at Stirling in 2017, held the breed female record for an an. when selling for 22,000gns to Harte Peat, Co Monagh

The Society’s ‘new’ Swiss chalet styled office was opened at Stoneleigh in 1988.

Fiona Sloan & Clare Rowbotham, BSCS Development Manag er and Office Manag er respectively through the mid 2000’s.

Blackford Galaxy 15, RHAS 2017 Male Champion and Interbreed Beef Breeder Continental Champion.

mond with presents Alan Ry ef. be ident 1991-1992 al es nt Pr me CS BS Sim n of George Anderso years promotion iation for his 11 ec pr ap of n ke to

May & Joe Campbell of the influential Camus Simmental her d based Strabane.

Denizes Amazon 09, MA Barlow - Sold at Stirling Feb 2011 for 17,000gns to GT Van Der Gucht, Deerhurst herd.

The last bull sale in 1989 at the old Perth market, Dick Pearce, BSCS President, presents picture of Simmental Champions to (l-r) auctionners David Leggat, Ian Thompson, Jack Young and Roly Fraser.

1979 - 1980 BSCS President Robert McBride (left) receives the first of six annual awards to the Society for Best Beef from the Dairy herd in 1979.

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Glenturk herd Willie Allan of the t 1977-1978. en sid and BSCS Pre

Okane torious, from S Dressogue Vic for NI ld m so fro r 09 he 20 ot b An rth Fe r Champion Pe - Reserve Senio s. rm Fa a athisl 13,000gns to Str

Dyfed Hello, MO&LD Jones, the first Simmental to win Junior Elite Championship Royal Welsh Show 1998.

Heywood Estelle - Royal Bath & West 1988 Champion with David Barker & Dick Pearce.

Simmental 78 at Bingley Hall, an event credited with putting the Simmental breed firmly on the map.

Drumsleed Tobias, GW Smit

h Supreme Champion Pert

h Feb 1989.

Rob Evans, Wroxall herd with Hugo Arnold, Hockenhull at the 1995 Royal Welsh Show.

Ranfurly Weikel 3rd and Ranfurly Weikel st 1 , owned by David Hazelton, the NI Simmental 2010 Super Pair of the Year.

David Smith - winner of the World first Cow Production Class at the Royal Show

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1984 being presented by BSCS Robin Forrest.

Glenturk Rolex, G Alla n - Perth Oct 2005 top price animals of all breeds at sale, 17,000gns to J Peters , Treetops herd.

1985 Simmental were the most Successful Beef Breed winning Interbreed titles at Royal Ulster, Royal Highland & Royal Show.

A big number of Simmenta l bulls sell into Orkney with as many as 15-2 0% from sales at Stirling in the 2000’s head ing to the island.

Dirnanean Typhoon from F&N McGowan at Perth Feb 2008, sold for 22,000 gns to D&N Field, Sw indon.

ric sale day Anne MacPherson on the histo ercaillie for the in 2013 selling Bel Dhu Cap Breed Record 45,000gns.

WH Robson & Sons, sold Kilbride Farm Nevada from 8,000gns at Perth Oct of rd reco d bree then a for ls. 1984 to Woodhall Simmenta

Beef 92 at Stoneleig h. The Simmental Soc iety was noted for its outstanding com mercial breed promo tions.

NI bulls have consistently sold well at Society sales. Pictured is Shanehill Victor from BW Chambers sold at Perth 2009 11,000gns to the Manor Park herd.

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Cleenagh Jack from the prolific sale herd of Adrian Richardso who sold for 10,000 n, gns at the Perth Feb sale 2000.

l Ulster Show ging job at Roya g on his last jud bert McBride. Ro m fro a, Sir William Youn tin n, the noted Le with his champio

arles presenting all HRH Prince Ch 1996 Royal Cornw to David Barker. y ph tro hip ns ampio the Supreme Ch

Popes Fearless & Pop es Princess Cleo, win ners of the 2016 Interbreed pairs at both the Gre at Yorks & Royal Welsh Shows. 1990 Revelex Lotti 8th selling for 10,500gns at the Rev elex Sale.

Dewhurst’s of Leamington Spa put on this Simmental beef display at Simmental 78.

Champion female & Reserve

Supreme at Simmental 78,

l. Solway Reba from JG Marshal

Hirwaun Rooney fro m local breeder Aled Davies RWAS 2007 Suprem e Champion.

The remarkable Brin kton herd which gained six firs t prizes and Sup & Res Championsh ips at the 1993 Royal Show fro m an entry of over 100 Simmenta ls.

A typically packed ringside at a Simmental sale!

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Past presidents (l-r) George Anderson, Phillip House and Willie Allan, in discussion with Gerry Rankin Boot farming company and Westdrum herd.

Killane Fauna from David Perry, sired by Petro, a dominant show cow in the late 1970’s in N Ireland.

heifers The largest exportation of British Simmental Cattle, 13 in 2017. and 3 bulls headed to the Azores, North Atlantic Ocean,

John Marshall of the Solway herd and BSCS President 1987 - 1988 .

Ranfurly Beauty 5th, from David Hazelton, sold in Sept 2012 at Moira market for 16,500gns to the Denizes herd. This was a new Simmental NI maiden heifer record.

tal 78 Supreme and Male Champion at the highlight Simmen was Rangemore Endeavour from Mr GJC Anderson.

David Gaunt, Simmental Society Breed Secretary between 1977 to 1997. David had tremendous enthusiasam and skill for the promotion and development of the Simmental breed and Soc over some 20 years.

ge influence on ily have had a hu The Robson fam red here (l to r) tu Pic d. ee al br the UK Simment eir father Billy. th th wi an Michael & Norm

ded Open Day at The hugely atten

the home of Iain

rd 2011.

he Green’s Corskie

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The Island of Orkney continu es to be a strong market for Simmental genetics . Pictured here is BSCS Open Day at Steven Sand ison’s in 2015.

ding John Young of the long stan the Skerrington herd who was -98. Society’s President in 1997

of the nd Krumpet’s Roxanne winners Sterling Viking 2 & Sterling tes. Esta ton ding Bod for w Sho al 2009 Burke Trophy at the Roy

Ben-Nant Vera Royal Welsh Female Cham pion in 2012 and bred by We lsh breeder BT Raymo nd.

e and the most used pedigre Brinkton Brilliant, born in 1991 herd book. ety’s Soci the of ry histo Simmental bull in the

Hockenhull Waterloo from Hugo Arnold sells Stirling Oct 2009 for 16,000gns to Billy McPherson, Blackford herd.

il McIlwaine (r) of Well known NI breeder Cec ng a show prize. enti pres herd ick Corr the

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One of the earliest photos of the British

e Audrey Shaw (ne Wrinch) Breed -1977. Secretary 1976

Simmental Cattle Society Council, 19731974.

A big crowd was a sign of the of quality on offer at the sale AR the noted Darsham herd of Clements in 2006. John Thornborrow, pictured left, an auctioneer synonymous with the development of Simmental Sales in the UK.

by JC at Perth Feb 2010 nd sold for 20,000gns mentals. Sim 2 l rk Pa rze r Wo no d Ma Blackfor ls and bought by nta me Sim ll rgi Da McLaren,

A driver of the YMA Brid get Borlase seen her e in 2014 presenting stockjudg ing team award to Wil liam Ferguson and Andrew Clarke.

Bob Lunness of the noted Brinkton herd and BSCS President 200 3-2004.

8 and E Supreme Champion 200 Crackley Cornelia the RAS Mr Booth & Mr Bell. ders bree l loca ular pop bred by

Dick Pearce, Yanley Simmentals and BSCS President 1989-1990.

Moncur Sensation bre d by GC Taylor Farms and shown by the Robson family. The first Simmental Inte rbreed Champion at the Royal Ulster, in 199 8.

Dermotstown Delboy, from

mpion 2014 & 2015.

al Ulster Supreme Cha J L & CJ Weatherup, the Roy

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139

urged young breeders. The society has always enco s Grenham of the Boars Rhy ng you a is here ured Pict ing back in 1997. Head herd pictured here show The famous show cow Darsham Kit Kat from AR Clements, Suffolk, in 2005 Kit Kat won the Royal Hig hland, Royal, Great Yorkshire and Royal Welsh shows.

John Gabbie of the Ballymaglave herd. BSCS President between 1993-1994.

e in 2009 at the ring and this tim Simmental sale Cheshire. in ld he , old Another packed Arn rsal sale of Hugo Hockenhull dispe

and bought by Linda Burditt E Supreme Champion in 1997 Brinkton Bluebelle the RAS price of 11,000gns. rd reco ale fem a for sale in 1994 at the Brinkton Reduction

Rickardstown Jumbo, one of the most influential sires in the Simmental breed in the UK through the 80’s and early 90’s having been bought by Bob Vigus in 1980 for the equivalent of £495. Semen was also exported worldwide

David Donnelly with Duke

140

w 2003. of Kent - Staffordshire Sho

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

David Bell,Crackley Simmentals, Warwicks hire a huge advocate the Simmental breed of spreading the word in all parts of the cou ntry.

aph showing the maternal A typical Simmental photogr for breed promotion 2015. strengths of the breed used

Her Majesty the Queen presenting the Burke Trophy in 1989 to BSCS President Dick Pearce.

ns in Feb 2012 at Stirling Team Banker sold for 17,000g or a strong supporter Greg Mac ert Rob of herd from the Simmental breed. the in g rdin reco ance of Perform

RASE 2003 Burke Trophy winners Atlow Rhians Valentine & Sterling Krakajack.

Sacombe Dandelion-Oma RWAS 2019 - Supreme Overall Champion & Individual Interbreed Champion.

Michael Barlow, Denizes herd . The Society’s President in the 50th Anniversary year and from 2019-2020.

a herd s of Kersknowe, g, Jimmy Jeffrey son John his th wi Feb 2017 at Stirlin ue og tal 70, studies the ca prices. lls at five figure established in 19 mmanded 14 bu at a sale that co

Hertfordshire Show 1975, the Simmental breed makes an early impression on HRH The Queen Mother.

Westdrums Bruce exported to Canada in 1974 and one of many British Simmentals exported to North America at this time .

The noted Welsh Simmenta l bull Sundial Lewis with his owner Merion Jones, who many titles, teamed up with amongst Darsham Kit Kat in 2005 to win the RWAS Fitzhugh Pair s.

Simmental breeders of the future. The Simmental Young Members Association offering young breeders the chance to broaden their knowledge and experience of all things Simmental.

Philip House (l) of the

Cloford Herd, BSCS Presid

ent in 1981-82.

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Young Simmental members in 2018 putting together a video prompting the virtues of British Beef. Simmental of cour se!

n of Perth 2002, a so eme Champion pes Laird, Supr Green, Corskie. s Po ssr ial nt Me ue to infl ns The 12,000g enger, sold for Salisbury Chall

1982 World Congress. A memorable day was spent at Hardgrove (Solway) commencing with a parade and judging of bulls.

bell,Camus and ht by Joe Camp ge success to Star Fanny, boug hu th wi ed ywood, flush in the breed. es sir Frank Baker, He p to e some of th

ll, who Sowenna Aristocrat bred by Mr & Mrs Hawkey from Cornwa and also to went on to be Supreme Champion at the Highland Show on. breed Kennox Tara’s Gem, a further Highland Show Champi

12 years after the first imporation, the UK hosted the

& rd Ranfurly Weikel 23 - RUAS 2019 - Female Champion Interbreed Continental Beef Recorded Heifer.

placing his Reserve Male John Trafford, Hepplewhite herd the 2010 Royal Welsh Show. Champion, Banwy Avalanche at

Peth Nov 2007 75 bull sold to a then autumn breed average of £4135. Top price was the 16,000gns Stralongford Trojan from JJ Hanna.

Fourth World Simmental Congress which was opened

by Lord Home of the Hirsel

The last Royal Show in 2009 saw a Simmental clean sweep of Interbreeds including the Team of Five.

Two respective Heavyweight Champions in their fields. Boxer Frank Bruno along with highly respected Simmental breeder Billy Robson Kilbride Farm in 1986.

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r show Melody who in a six yea The renowned Stuartslaw es and 5 ET calves calv 7 of g edin bre her career combined or shows. mpionship awards at maj with winning over 50 Cha

The 1971 born Solway Adonis, a Scottish Neff son whose semen was widely used throughout the UK and with the bull himself exported to the USA where he was very successful.

2020, the breed’s 50th year in the UK, and British heifers from the Omorga and Hiltonstown herds are exported to the breeds homeland in Switzerland.

Stewart Stronach, Islavale herd, elected BSCS President in 2020th the Society’s 50 Anniversary year.

Top price Simmental at Carlisle Sale was 13,000gns in August 2012 for a heifer & calf unit from B&E Chadwick, Derbyshire, Chadstone Tollies Delight 6th. The purchaser was Hunnyhill Farms, Newport, Isle of Wight.

Newry, The 2002 born Dovefields Gallant son, Kilbride Farm g at an influential bull in the breed with progeny featurin shows & sales throughout the UK & Ireland.

Well known Simmenta l figures Roger Birch, Pasturefields and Rob Evans, Wro xall enjoy a prizewinn ing presentation.

was Milnafua Vagabond, bred by Messrs Gill, Invergordon, ft Cattle Supreme Champion and sold for 10,000gns to Avoncro in 1989. Breeders at the last sale held at the old Perth Market

mpbells, eart from the Ca for a then Thrunton Lionh rth in Feb 1983 Pe at ld so nd s, Errol. rm Fa nd Northumberla itla 6,200gns to Ma breed record of

The 1975 born Heywo od Esquire who went on to be one of the most infl uential bulls in the BSC S herdbook with over 1500 calves registered to him.

Scotland Hooray Henry from P Hill, Leics, RASE Supreme Champion and Individual Interbreed Champion in 2000.

icombe, Devon, bred by RH Widd on figures and Starline Klassik, big Marshall son e UK. a Wroxall Field s rd he across th widely used in

AWL Starlet, imported from Canada in 1995 to the Heathbrow herd of David & Lesley Sapsed, and who after a prolific breeding career lived to just shy of 21 years of age.

a, Roger Trewhell eed the Society’s Br O Secretary & CE 1997 - 2003.

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End of an era. Last sale of Simmentals at the old Perth market in 1989.

rk hard at continues to wo le. The Society ch year. ea y Ma in Ready for the sa ld he Worcester Sale developing the

d member of e Interbreed an vidual Suprem ghland 1995. di Hi In l la ya ge Ro , An reed Tillyair of Four Interb am Te g in nn wi

A cracking line up of some 18 Simmental bulls at Stirling, giving commercial and pedigree buyers plenty of choice and for every pocket.

the breed l has promoted British Simmenta s stand at a ty’ cie So the is re far and wide. He an, Poland. Beef Expo in Pozn

of the the Wroxall herd of Dan Evans, one Wroxall Cocker Leeky Soup PP from on the demand for ted entra conc has herd The original importers to the UK. animals. polled and homozygous polled

In 1972 Tom Neilson’s Overhall Allendorf was the first Simmental bull to be sold at publ ic auction in the UK at Perth in October 1972 making 2400gns selling to D Boswell.

Neil Shand, BSCS Breed Secretary & CEO 2010-2019

Ruhma, one of the first Simmental sires

in Sterling Bacardi’s Hawaii, at the herd dispersal sale for Boddington Estates at Stirling herd. 2017, sold for the still standing breed female record of 28,000gns to the Sacombe

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used in UK.

Open Days have pro ved a great way to pro mote the Simmental breed and including this one at the Newbiemains herd of Jim and Patricia Go ldie held in 2017.

1985 Simmentals win Burk e Trophy for the first time. Nelly exhibited by Mr CP House and Milson Matchmaker, exhibited by WS Allan.

Past BSCS President Hector MacAskill (left) pictured with Pat Kelly in 2010.

Simmental stalwart

Hugo Arnold, Hocke

nhull herd, BSCS Pre

sident 1995-1996.

on Neff who had a huge impact The imported bull Scottish in Scotland and across the d bree the of ent lopm the deve ed. t Simmental calves register UK. Ranked sixth in the mos

Farm of the Kilbride Michael Robson 12. ident 2011- 20 es Pr CS BS d herd an Sir William Young, Skerring ton herd, the BSCS President between 1973 -1974.

Billy Robson OBE, Kilbride

t 1985-1986 and 1999-200

Farm herd and BSCS Presiden

le en the multi tit ale was set wh am Dispersal Simmental fem a rsh r fo Da e ice th pr at d A recor 18,000gns Ickleton. am KitKat made d, Abbey Barns, winning Darsh ed by Mr C Irelan as rch pu s wa t Sale. KitKa

1993 and the European Dairy Event at Stone leigh. The Society, outside its office, promoting the virtues of cross bred cattle and selling delicious Simmental Roast Beef Sandwiches.

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THE FOUNDING HERDS OF THE BRITISH SIMMENTAL CATTLE SOCIETY IN 1970

n 1970, sixty-eight members joined the Society after its formation. Of these, twenty-eight were from England, thirty-two from Scotland, and eight from Northern Ireland. A veritable ‘who’s who’ of famous names, many of these founding herds went on to carve significant notches in the history and development of the Simmental breed as its influence on the British beef industry grew over the years. Seven of these original herds are still members of the BSCS with four registering cattle in 2020. These seven herds are: WROXALL, GLENTURK, SACOMBE, KERSKNOWE, SOUTH PARK, BROOKFIELD, & MONCUR. A huge congratulations is extended to these sixty eight herds, and the ongoing ‘super seven’ for their foresight, dedication and longevity. The original 68 members, and regions they were situated in, are as follows: MISS J BRAMBLE

UNIVERSAL

Centre West

MR C P HOUSE

CLOFORD

South West

MR J BECK

PORTOSPITTAL

Scotland

ABS PROGEN

HAMPSHIRE

South East

MR J H SILVERWOOD

TAGALMIRE

North East

R STERNBERG

PLURENDEN

South East

MR E EASTWOOD

NEW BUILDINGS

Northern Ireland

MR R VIGUS

REVELEX

East Anglia

A H BORLAND ESQ

ALTONHILL

Scotland

F G HALL

SALEDELL

North West

MR D MCCLUSKEY

LEA

Scotland

MR I A HUNTER

TILLYLAIR

Scotland

W M SHORT ESQ

AVERNDALE

Northern Ireland

E M K JELLICOE

CHESTON

South West

MR P CASSIDY

MULLAGHMORE

Northern Ireland

F J YOUNG

MR J MURCHIE

BAILEMARGAIDH

Scotland

G CLOKE

CLOBRED

Midlands

MR L BOWDEN

LESANNA

South East

CROSS LANES ORCHARD LTD

CROSS LANES

South East

MR A R KIRKWOOD

LOTHIAN

Scotland

T F INGLIS

DUNNINALD

Scotland

MR R L COCKBURN

EDDERSIDE

North West

S J S STEVENSON

BALIG

Scotland

MR W H F HOWE

DRUMKEEN

Northern Ireland

MR J G MARSHALL

SOLWAY

Scotland

MR J SAYER

ARNCLIFFE

North East

MR J JEFFREY

KERSKNOWE

Scotland

MR J C QUINN

DUNAMORE

Northern Ireland

T H NEILSON

OVERHALL

South East

MR R H BURTON

DOCKERLAND

North East

MR T C GILLESPIE

SOUTH PARK

Scotland

MR R CROZIER

CROMAR

North West

MR A HOGGARTH

ISLAND

North East

MR P LIGHTFOOT

WEBSTER

North West

C H EVANS & SON

WROXALL

Midlands

MR K BROMLEY

ASHLEY

Scotland

MONCUR PEDIGREE HERDS

MONCUR

Scotland

MRS E J DAVIS

BEWERLEY

North East

A BARR

HEATHERY HALL

Scotland

MR J K HENRY

KIRKOSWALD

Scotland

MR W S OATES

RAVENSWORTH

North East

SIR T MCALPINE

PORTLING

Scotland

MR J C PICKEN

TORRS

Scotland

MRS A M MCMILLEN

MARLMONT

Northern Ireland

M S MURRAY THREIPLAND

FINGASK

Scotland

J D HEENAN

BARBICAN

Northern Ireland

SIR DAVID OGILVY

WINTONHILL

Scotland

MR G I DAGG

CRAILING

Scotland

MR A G MCCULLOUGH

BROOKFIELD

Northern Ireland

J E LILEY

HASELOR

Centre West

MR T BARR

HOBSLAND

Scotland

MR C M ALLAN

ARDO

Scotland

LAMBERT FENCHURCH UK LTD

MR & MRS P B & J A BORLASE

SACOMBE

South East

G & M STEELE

OLDBERROW

East Anglia

MR N B JAMIESON

TIPTON

South West

G M RANKIN

WESTDRUMS

Scotland

W R CHAPMAN

BROADLAND

East Anglia

J YOUNG

PLEASANT

Scotland

A MACKAY

ENTERKINE

Scotland

A ADAM

NEWHOUSE

Scotland

S A FRASER

BEAUFORT

Scotland

WS ALLAN

GLENTURK

Scotland

R F DIGBY

EAST HECKINGTON

Eastern

MR K H ADAMSON

FRIARTON

Scotland

J MACKIE

BENT

Scotland

N ADDISON & SON

THE TAM

Scotland

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www.britishsimmental.co.uk

Scotland

South East

BRITISH SIMMENTAL CATTLE SOCIETY PRESIDENTS 1970 – 2020

n the fifty-year history of the Society there have been 26 terms of Presidential office, with 25 BSCS Presidents. Billy Robson of Kilbride Farms is the only President to have served two terms, between 1985-1986, and 1999-2000, respectively. The Robson family has also seen Michael Robson be President between 2011-2012. The other father and son Presidents have been Sir William Young, Skerrington, serving in 1973-1974, with John Young serving between 1997-1998. In each and every instance the respective Presidents, and their Councils at that time, have worked selflessly to continue the improvement and development of the Society, and the breed as an influential part of the British beef industry.

1970-1972

Dick Howard

MATCHING

South East

1973-1974

Sir William Young

SKERRINGTON

Scotland

1975-1976

Bob Vigus

REVELEX

East Anglia

1977-1978

Willie Allan

GLENTURK

Scotland

1979-1980

Robert McBride

IRISH

Northern Ireland

1981-1982

Philip House

CLOFORD

South West

1983-1984

Robin Forrest

STUARTSLAW

Scotland

1985-1986

Billy Robson

KILBRIDE FARM

Northern Ireland

1987-1988

John Marshall

SOLWAY

Scotland

1989-1990

Dick Pearce

YANLEY

South West

1991-1992

George Anderson

KAIR

Scotland

1993-1994

John Gabbie

BALLYMAGLAVE

Northern Ireland

1995-1996

Hugo Arnold

HOCKENHULL

Midlands

1997-1998

John Young

SKERRINGTON

Scotland

1999-2000

Billy Robson

KILBRIDE FARM

Northern Ireland

2001-2002

John Thornhill

POYNTON

Midlands

2003-2004

Bob Lunness

BRINKTON

North East

2005-2006

John Dykes

MENDICK

Scotland

2007-2008

Dan Evans

WROXALL

Midlands

2009-2010

Hector Macaskill

WOODHALL

Scotland

2011-2012

Michael Robson

KILBRIDE FARM

Northern Ireland

2013-2014

Iain Green

CORSKIE

Scotland

2015-2016

David Donnelly

ATLOW

Midlands

2017-2018

Robin Boyd

SLIEVENAGH

Northern Ireland

2019-2020

Michael Barlow

DENIZES

Midlands

2020 -

Stewart Stronach

ISLAVALE

Scotland

BRITISH SIMMENTAL CATTLE SOCIETY BREED SECRETARIES 1970 – 2020

he Society has had eight breed secretaries in its fifty year history. David Gaunt having served some twenty years between 19771997, and more recently Neil Shand serving near on ten years, account for thirty of the fifty years to date. Between 20052010 the position was held jointly by Fiona Sloan and Claire Rowbotham.

Brian Freeman

1970-75

Audrey Shaw (Nee Wrinch)

1976-77

David Gaunt

1977-97

Roger Trewhella Sarah Roberts

1997-2003 2003

Fiona Sloan & Clare Rowbotham

2005-2010

Neil Shand

2010 -2019

Iain Kerr

2020 The Review 2020

147

David: 07841 748 764 Jonny: 07738 444 605

Bulls, Heifers and Embryos usually for sale RANFURLY CONFEDERATE C24 11

Senior herd sire at Islavale. No. 1 bull for pedigree registrations in 2019. Several high priced sons sold to a top of 24,000 Guineas.

VISITORS ALWAYS WELCOME

RANFURLY JACKALL J9 18 Junior and Supreme Champion - Stirling October 2019. Sold for 14,000 Guineas to Strathisla Farms.

The Small herd with a Huge Impact

SOME OF OUR RECENT NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS

AUCHORACHAN HERCULES Result of Ranfurly mating. Embryo traded to Durno Family. For further details see Auchorachan Advert on Inside Back Cover.

JACKPOT J12 18 1st Prize Winner at Sterling Feb. 2019. Sold to Philip Haugh Estates. 9,000 Gns.

RANFURLY IMPECCABLE I417 Male of the Year N.I. 2018. 1st Prize Stirling October 2018. Sold to Grangewood 8,500 Gns.

RANFURLY JAMESON J218 National Show Champion & Male of the Year N.I. 2019. Interbreed and Champion of Champions at Omagh and Castlewellan.

RANFURLY BEAUTY 13th K2 Leading Price 7,000 Gns. 3rd Production Sale to Islavale.

RANFURLY WEIKEL 30th K1 5,600 Gns. to Chadston.

W.D. & J.D. HAZELTON, Cohannon House, 25 Bovean Road, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone BT71 6HR

Email: ranfurlysimmentals@hotmail.co.uk

MAINTAINING FEMALE QUALITY AND A COMMERCIAL PERSPECTIVE ARE THE

KEYS TO CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENT AT ISLAVALE SIMMENTALS Herd feature on the recently elected BSCS President Stewart Stronach and the Stronach family at Maisley, Keith, Banffshire.

t was using Simmental bulls on their commercial herd and witnessing the benefits of the breed first-hand that encouraged the Stronachs to establish their pedigree herd back in the early 1980s – and in the subsequent years, they’ve continued to keep the commercial aspect at the forefront of their breeding policy. Stewart Stronach explains: “We noticed a huge difference after we started to use the Simmental – the heifers were growthier and went on to make great cows and the steers had far quicker growth weights. The great appeal of the breed is that you get milky, productive females that also produce fast-growing calves.”

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Stewart is the fourth generation of Stronachs to farm at Maisley in Keith, Banffshire, where he’s based with partner Fiona Sutherland, and their family including Michael, Ellie, Lauren, Aimee and Emma. Along with Fiona and Michael, the farming partnership includes Stewart’s parents, Stewart Snr and Hazel, who reside along the road at Berryleys Farm. The Stronachs have gradually increased their owned land over the years and are now farming 760 acres in all, with 160 acres of barley grown within that, mostly for malting with some kept for feeding. On the stock side, 300 cross sheep are put to Texel and Charollais sires, with the lambs finished at home off grass, while the 200-cow herd includes 160 pedigree females and 40 commercials.

FACTS • Farming 760 acres in all, with 160 acres of barley grown within that. • 200-cow Simmental herd includes 160 pedigree females and 40 commercials. • 300 cross sheep are put to Texel and Charollais sires • Top pedigree Simmental price to date is 24,000gns for Islavale Heston, in February 2018

We like cows that can look after themselves as well as their calf; a medium sized, commercial type cow is ideal for us. Running a closed herd other than bulls, the Stronachs have only ever bought in a few pedigree females, with the first being Maryculter Lucinda, almost 40 years ago. Another fortunate purchase around that time was Drumsleed Amelia, which was flushed to Gretna House Supersonic, producing 18 calves. Stewart says: “We kept all the heifers from that flush, which provided a real solid foundation for the herd; they made great cows. The health benefits of having a closed herd are really

important to us – we’ve been Johne’s and BVD accredited for 12 years and the cows are screened for Lepto and vaccinated for IBR.” With that strong foundation of females, the Stronachs have relied on selecting the right bulls to improve and develop the herd. Darsham Lucky Strike was a purchase with growth and style, which left his stamp, and then Curaheen Bandit, which Stewart says bred particularly strong females. “Our herd is now dominated by Bandit cows. They seem to click well with any bulls.

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“We like cows that can look after themselves as well as their calf; a medium sized, commercial type cow is ideal for us.”

are calving at the moment – they’re shaping up to be really nice cows, easy calving with plenty milk.

Five years ago, the Stronachs bought Ranfurly Confederate at the Dirnanean dispersal, having liked him when he was originally sold at Stirling. He has been popular for semen sales and has also bred exceptionally well in the Islavale herd, with the first crop of sons selling to 24,000gns for Islavale Heston, in February 2018, while another son, Islavale Harvest made 16,000gns.

“To increase potential buyers of bulls, since 2014, all our bulls for Society sales have been individually tested clear of IBR and not vaccinated, in case an AI Centre shows an interest, as we’ve missed out on sales in the past due to vaccinating them,” adds Stewart.

Two other recent stock bulls that have sired several five-figure priced sons for the herd are Curaheen Giant and Atlow Dixon. Giant was bought at Roscommon in 2016 after Stewart had placed him Junior Champion at the pre-sale show. His first seven calves averaged over £9000, selling to a top of 16,000gns. Dixon had been placed overall champion at Stirling in February 2014, before the Stronachs bought him for 15,000gns, impressed by his ‘length and style’. His sons have also proved popular, making up to 14,000gns. “There are a few factors that we consider when buying a bull – the look, the pedigree and its health status are all very important. We then look at the figures and make an informed choice – we wouldn’t buy a bull with particularly bad figures. “In 2017, we bought Corskie Highlander privately from the Green family and we’re really pleased with how he is breeding. We sold the first son off him last October at 15,000gns and his first crop of heifers 152

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Other than pre-sale shows at the bull sales, Stewart says showing has never been a passion of his and he feels that sometimes, over-fed show animals can give the wrong impression of the breed. However, his family are now very keen on the show-ring and he gets a lot of satisfaction out of seeing them do well – which they have done, with wins including overall Simmental champion and reserve inter-breed at Turriff in 2018; male champion at the National Show at Perth in 2017 and inter-breed champion at Keith the same year. The girls have had a fair bit of success at Young Handlers competitions too, with Aimee winning the overall title at last year’s Stars of the Future show and Emma finishing third. Fiona says: “We really enjoy showing at the Stars of the Future; it’s good training for the bull sales. The girls love being hands-on and Simmentals are a great breed for that, they’re very quiet.” Back at home, calving is split between two quite tight periods in late autumn and then again in the spring, with 100 cows calving each time. Spring calving cows are outwintered, brought in for calving and then straight back out once they’ve calved. Those calving in the

back-end are brought in just before, in October and kept in all winter on a silage and straw ration. The majority of straw used is homegrown. Stewart explains: “Our ground is very heavy and the cattle can make a mess of it in the winter, which is why we keep the back-end calvers in. The cows receive a bulling mineral and then a pre-calving mineral.” Maintaining the quality of the females in the herd is a priority for the Stronachs. They have always been very selective with which ones they breed from, but they now find the Society’s female classification system extremely helpful.

I think the demand for Simmentals continues to rise because the breed is continually improving – in weight gains and calving ease. They are as milky as ever, but with improved carcases… “I think an outside opinion is always useful, for any breeder, and having the classification system increases buyer confidence too. Anyone can say that a bull is out of their best cow, but this helps prove how good the females are,” says Stewart.

Within the Islavale herd, there are more than 50 Excellent cows, with most of the others classified as Very Good. The policy is to keep a fairly young herd, with the aim of constantly improving the females, and with a strong cull cow trade at the moment, this also works in their favour. Heifers not being retained for the herd are often sold privately for breeding, with lower-end heifers popular as recipients for embryos. Male calves are all kept entire, with anything not making the grade fattened on a barley beef system and sold through ABP at Perth, often making 400kg d/w at 13-months-old. Stewart says: “There is always plenty demand for breeding females. The Simmental cow is by far the most dominant suckler cow in this area – they make great mothers and you can use any bull on them to produce what you want for your system.” This year has been one like no other, with online bidding becoming the norm and restricted buyer numbers at sales, however, the Islavale bulls have continued to prove popular, both online and at the market. At the Stirling sale in October, their six entries averaged £8890, with Islavale Kristoff (a Corskie Highlander son) and Islavale Kai (by Curaheen Giant) making 14,000gns apiece. “I think the demand for Simmentals continues to rise because the breed is continually improving – in weight gains and calving ease. They are as milky as ever, but with improved carcases. It is worrying times at the moment, but we certainly can’t complain with how the sales have gone this year,” adds Stewart.

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AREA CLUB OFFICERS CHAIRPERSON

SECRETARY

1. SCOTLAND Nadia Gwynne Garden Cottage, Castlewigg Farm, Whithorn, Newton Stewart, DG8 8DP Mobile: 07585 554463 Tel: 01988 500243 Email: nadiagwynne@gmail.com

Mr. Richard Pettit Den Farm, Fochabers, Morayshire, IV32 7PQ Mobile: 07739 079403 Email: rmspettit@btinternet.com

2. NORTH EAST Mr Craig Hollingsworth, Midhope Hall Farm, Midhopestones, Sheffield, S36 4GW Tel: 01226 764192 Email: midhopestones@outlook.com

Mrs Jayne Pick Cottage One, Scarthingwell Farm, Scarthingwell, Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, LS24 9PF Tel: 01937 557546 Email: jcpick62@outlook.com

3. NORTH WEST Peter Burgess High Keenley Fell Farm, Allendale, Hexham, Northumberland NE47 9NU Mobile: 0771 0447807 Email: tilbrooksimmentals@gmail.com

Miss Sarah Ford High Keenley Fell Farm, Allendale, Hexham, Northumberland NE47 9NU Tel: 01434 618344 Email: nwsimmentalclub@gmail.com

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4. NORTHERN IRELAND Mr Conrad Fegan 24 Knockbarragh Road, Rostrevor, Newry, Co Down, BT34 3DL Tel: 02841 738579 Mobile: 07932839329 Email: conrad.fegan@outlook.com

Julie Stinson 55 Boho Road, Roscultan, Springfield, Enniskillen, N. Ireland BT74 5AQ Tel: 02866 341411 Mobile: 07999 622201 Email: julies345@hotmail.co.uk

10 5. MIDLANDS Jennie Ward 3 Brackenfield Way, Winsford, Cheshire, CW7 2UX Mobile: 07821394962 Email: fishpoolsimmental@gmail.com

Andrea Booth Gun Lane Farm, Gun Lane, Nether Heage, Belper, Derbyshire, DE56 2JX Tel: 01773 852115 Email: andrea.booth@talktalk.net

6. WALES Aled Davies Wern Villa, Ponthirwaun, Cardigan, Ceredigion, SA43 2RL Tel: 01239 710497 Mobile: 07866 282766 Email: aledtal76@hotmail.co.uk

Callum Croft Gwalyrhwch Farm, Llanedi, Pontarddulais, Swansea, SA4 0YT Email: cjbcroft@icloud.com 079201 09398

7. CENTRE WEST Mr Mark Sallis Nuttingore Farm, Stanton Lane, Sapcote, Leicester, LE9 4LT Tel: 01455 648231 Mobile: 07941 061635 Email: sallis_mark@hotmail.com

Clare Price Old Woodbury Farm, Drove Road, Gamlingay, Sandy, SG19 2HS Tel: 01767 651053 Mobile: 0788 7753324 Email: whalegreensimmentals@gmail.com

8. EAST ANGLIA Mr. N Darling Long Meadow Barn, Intwood Farm, Intwood Road, Intwood, Norwich, NR4 6TQ. Mobile: 07799773084 Email: nigel@intwoodfarm.co.uk

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SECRETARY

Mr A J Curry Lowerdown Farm, Felton, Bristol, Somerset, BS40 9UF Tel: 01275 472268 Mobile: 07546 207496 Email: ljajcurry@hotmail.co.uk

Mrs D Shapland Brynsworthy Farm, Barnstaple, North Devon, EX31 3HR Tel: 01271 343575 Mobile: 07747745768 Email: brynsworthy.farm@yahoo.co.uk

10. CORNWALL Mr B R Wynter Bolankin Farm, Crows-An-Wra, St Buryan, Penzance, Cornwall, TR19 6HY Tel: 01736 810787 / 0759050 Email: brwynter@outlook.com

Bridget Olds Bosahan Simmentals, Bosahan Farm, Constantine, Falmouth, TR11 5QB Tel: 01326 340976 / 07890384094 Email: oldsbosahan@aol.com

11. SOUTH EAST Mrs H Clarke Model Farm, Brick Kiln Road, Hevingham, Norwich, Norfolk, NR10 5NL Mobile: 07799693582 Email: info@williamslivestock.com

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

Mr. C J Patmore Telmara Farm Ltd, Henham Rd, Debden Green, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 3LZ Tel: 0770 2503081 Email: chrisjohnptm@gmail.com

Mrs A Jukes Swallowhill House, Bourne Lane, Sandhurst, Kent, TN18 5NT Tel: 01580 850417 Email: jukesfamily@btinternet.com

REGIONAL CLUB REPORTS

Centre West Club Secretary’s Report - Clare Price

hat a year for us all and one that we could never have predicted. A normal year would have seen us gather together as a group for our annual AGM, but unfortunately due to Coronavirus this didn’t happen. Appointments for 2020 stayed the same as 2019 and are:

Chairman – Mark Sallis Vice Chairman – David Savins Treasurer – John Fellows Secretary – Clare Price Due to this pandemic, we were unable to organise some of our usual events, including a farm visit, Quiz, the Annual Herd Competition, and our usual entertaining Christmas Dinner and Raffle. Hopefully 2021 might be a little kinder to us and enable us to get back together with friends, enabling us to share our common interest in the breed. 2020 should have seen the 50th Anniversary of the breed, which was obviously altered due to COVID-19. What a shame this happened! The virtual show certainly seemed well supported and well done to those that entered. With very little to report, we thought we would turn back time and look back at some of the good times shared over the years, including how the Centre West Club came about. The Centre West Club was formed in 1988, after a meeting of the Wales and Mid-West Club at Boddington Manor with Stephen Hitchins acting as Chairman. The membership felt that such a large geographic area made attending meetings difficult, therefore a proposal to form a new club resulted in the formation of the Centre West. The club’s first AGM was held at Hereford market on the eve of the bull sale. Jane Smith was elected chairman; Sarah Roberts was secretary, and Robert Hewlett treasurer. All those years ago, the Centre West club was a strong membership of 36, which set the club going on its journey. Under the Chairmanship of the late David Bell in 1993, the first Centre West Calf Show and Young Handlers Competition took place, which was an idea from Graham Fishlock (Boddington Estate Stockman). The competition was always well supported and the highlight of the day was the BBQ, where friends came together for a catch up and talked Simmentals. Unfortunately, Foot and Mouth hit, which resulted in the competition being moved to a livestock market, as restrictions meant we could no longer meet on farm. As a club, we have hosted a number of visits from other regions of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. We have also been honoured to host breeders from overseas. In 2008 the closing ceremony of the Simmental World Congress, hosted by the UK, was held in our area. The club became involved with Warwickshire College during the 1990’s as a bull performance test centre. This was managed by David Savins and was a valuable learning resource for students getting them involved in training and monitoring DLWG, with the end result being a stock show held at the college. The event was part of the college’s annual open day and those breeders that supported the

programme attended the event to see their bulls halter broken and shown, showcasing the Simmental breed. Over the past 32 years the club members and non- members have shared some really good times and here’s hoping we can get back to this again soon. Now people are getting to grips with the likes of ZOOM we will get together remotely and make plans for what can be achieved this year within whatever restrictions are thrown at us. The Review 2020

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Cornwall Simmental Club History of Club - Report by Bridget Olds About the Cornwall Simmental Club

ornwall Simmental Club was founded in 1990 with the help and encouragement of David Gaunt who was then general secretary of the Simmental Society and Penny Lally.

Our first president (and original chairman) was John Langdon a well-respected breeder of Simmentals with his ‘Carnon ‘ herd. In 2008 we were delighted that James Lawrey, ’Tolver’ herd, accepted our invitation to replace John at the helm. Despite his fragile health James took an active interest in the club and was immensely proud of the way we hosted the first National Simmental Show at Royal Cornwall in 2009 after the Royal Show at Stoneleigh folded. Although John and James are longer with us, they have passed on a passion for Simmentals and an ambition for Cornwall to be acknowledged as a bastion of the breed. Their leadership has laid a foundation for a pro-active, forward looking club willing to learn from others. At the 2009 A.G.M. we reluctantly accepted James’s decision to step down and welcomed Roger Pascoe to the post of President. Roger was followed by Charlie Harris, ‘Bargus’ herd who took up the reins in 2012 and has kindly taken on the role of photographer for the club at events and visits. In 2019 Penny Lally, one of the club’s founder members was voted in as our new president with the plan to celebrate 30 years of the club in 2020.

ANNUAL HERD COMPETITION Roger Pascoe enthusiastically introduced the club’s annual herd competition in 2006. Open to all members of the Cornwall Club everyone is encouraged to take part regardless of the number of Simmentals owned. Entries are equally divided between large and small herds and in 2019 an additional commercial section was introduced. Due to the challenges of COVID restrictions we have held a virtual herd Photography Competition in 2020. With 150 entries across 16 classes and 15 herds participating we are delighted that Mrs Judith Borlase Sacombe Herd (Cornish born and bred) kindly agreed to judge. We are avidly hoping that 2021 allows a more personal appreciation of members’ livestock. Every herd received a commemorative rosette combining the St Piran’s Flag with Cornish Tartan! Cornwall Simmental Club - On- line Photographic Competition 2020

Class 3 - Bull born on or between 1.7.2019 and 31.12.2019 1st & Reserve Male Killiworgie Knightrider 21.11.19 2nd Bosahan Kane 18.11.19 3rd Killiworgie Kasanova 04.07.19 Class 4 - Bull born on or after 1.1.2020. 1st Bosahan Lucre 14.03.20 2nd Sowenna Larry 31.03.20 3rd Bolankin Locrym 29.01.20 Class 5 - Cow any age in calf or with calf at foot (separate or combined pictures of cow/calf allowed) 1st & Female Champion Killiworgie Elderflower 06.08.13 2nd Killiworgie Fancy Nancy 11.12.14 3rd Killiworgie Buttercup Hannah 1.11.16 Class 6 - Heifer born on or between 1.1.2018 and 30.6.2018. 1st Crowgey Jordan 06.03.18 2nd Bosahan Jessica Star 24.02.18 3rd Bosahan Juliet Bea 03.06.18 Class 7 - Heifer born on or between 1.7.2018 and 31.12.2018. 1st & Reserve Female Treverbyn Josie 21.12.18 2nd Bosahan Joyous Miss Natalie 21.12.18 3rd Killiworgie Jessie 14.12.18 Class 8 - Heifer born on or between 1.1.2019 and 30.6.2019. 1st Killiworgie Miranda’s Krystal 20.02.19 2nd Bosahan Kellie Pearl Velia 15.01.19 3rd Bosahan Keira Emma Star 01.03.19 (Trewarnevas) Class 9 - Heifer born on or between 1.7.2019 and 31.12.2019. 1st Killiworgie Elderflower Kiwi 25.10.19 2nd Bosahan Katie Guin Bea 22.09.19 3rd Killiworgie Hermeras Kandice Class 10 - Heifer born on or after 1.1.2020. 1st Bosahan Lyra Gal Star 14.02.20 2nd Tregnether Lola 21.02.20 3rd Housey Elvis Blossom 09.01.20 Class 11- Commercial Cow 1st & Commercial Champion: Tweety 8 2009 Edward White St Buryan 2nd & Reserve Commercial Bosahan Cherry Blossom 2011 John Olds 3rd Tweety 12 2012 Edward White St Buryan Class 12 - Commercial steer or heifer born 2019 1st John Olds Constantine Kestle May 19 Steer 2nd John Olds Constantine Keith June 19 Steer 3rd John Olds Constantine Kansas October 19 Steer Class 13 - Commercial steer or heifer born 2020 1st Steph Hooper Castle-An-Dinas March 20 Heifer 2nd John Williams Pendeen – April 20 Steer 3rd Steph Hooper Castle-An-Dinas March 20 Heifer Class 14 – Amusing photo involving Simmentals not entered in previous classes 1st “Hard Working Mum” John Williams Pendeen 2nd “There’s Always One” – Megan Wellington St Kew 3rd “Two at my age you must be joking” – John and Bridget Olds Falmouth Class 15 – Groups 1st Killiworgie

Class 1 - Stock Bull born before 1.1.2019. with progeny

2nd Housey

1st & Male Champion – Dinton Imperial 11.02.17 (Killiworgie)

3rd Killiworgie

2nd – Kinclaven Infusion 15.08.17 (Bosahan)

Class16. Pairs

3rd - Castlegale Eric 05.08.13 (Sowenna)

1st Killiworgie

Class 2 - Bull born on or between 1.1.2019 and 30.6.2019

2nd Housey

1st Kurlycoat Kem 02.06.19

3rd White Bolankin

2nd Kurlycoat Kayleb 02.06.19 3rd Killiworgie Killowatt 03.06.19

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REGIONAL CLUB REPORTS

Winner Class 1 & Pedigree Male Champion - Dinton Imperial

Winner Class 6 - Crowgey Jordan

Winner Class 2 - Kurlycoat Kem 19

Winner Class 3 And Reserve Male Champion - Killiworgie Knightrider 19

Winner Class 4 - Bosahan Lucre 20

Winner Class 5 - Killiworgie Elderflower

Winner Class 7 And Reserve Female Champion - Treverbyn Josie

Winner Class 8 - Killiworgie Miranda’s Krystal

Winner Class 9 - Killiworgie Elderflower Kiwi

Winner Class 11 And Commercial Champion - 2009

Second Class 11 And Reserve Commercial Champion

Winner Class 12

Winner Class 14

Winner Class 15 Groups

Winner Class 16 Pairs

Winner Class 10 Bosahan Lyra Gal Star

Winner Class 13

COMMERCIAL DAY

SHOWS

In 2011 Penny Lally secured a grant from the Simmental Society to finance our first Commercial day at Sowenna the Hawkey family farm. Open days are aimed at commercial breeders to promote the positive influence of using a Simmental bull as a terminal sire. The weight for age ratios exceeds that of any other breed and successful first crosses with continentals and native suckler cows have been ably demonstrated.

Members of our club have enjoyed great success in the show and sale rings and new participants are given every encouragement and support from more seasoned campaigners.

Over the last eight years open days have been run throughout Cornwall and combined with demonstrations such as foot trimming and scanning as well as stock judging competitions which have been well received.

Receiving the award for the Champion Simmental at the Royal Highland Show has got to be one of the highlights of a breeder’s C.V. Congratulations to the Hawkey family with Sowenna Aristrocrat in 2013. Plus one of his daughters Kennox Taras Gem taking the supreme accolade in 2017.

Plans are in-hand for 2021 and we hope to offer breeders throughout the South West the opportunity to visit a successful commercial herd that values the Simmental Breed’s ability as a terminal sire to produce smart stores and early finishing cattle as well as top class female replacements.

Our Premier Show is Royal Cornwall where we have been able to sustain our own section with numbers forward and been privileged to be judged by some of the most prestigious Simmental Breeders in the British Isles.

One of the most satisfying aspects of being a pedigree breeder is to see your stock achieve at the highest level and provide foundation stock for enthusiastic newcomers.

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Cornwall Club Members also support the one day shows and in appreciation of their dedication an annual Club Most Points Competition has been run since 2016 for participants at Gwinear, Liskeard, Stithians, Camborne, Launceston and Camelford. To ensure that everyone is treated fairly Barrie Wynter manages a point system that rewards exhibitors entering mixed breed classes. Penny Lally was one of the driving forces behind the establishment of the Cornwall Pedigree Beef Calf Show in 2011 and club members have been avid supporters of the Simmental section.

SALES The closest Society Sale is Worcester which is held in early May. Our members have travelled further afield attending sales at Carlisle, Newark and Stirling, Scotland both selling and purchasing cattle. Cornish herds have invested in some the best Simmental bloodlines in the British Isles. Consequently, commercial breeders in the South West have benefited from the pool of genetics available to them and

resulting improvements in returns. In 2018 the Cornwall Club in conjunction with the Society approached Lodge and Thomas who run Truro market to feature four Special Simmental Sired classes with generous sponsorship on offer in a bid to promote the Simmental breed and reward commercial breeders using pedigree Simmental bulls. The third prize sale of suckled calves in 2020 was held at Truro Market on Wednesday 28th October. Fifty-four calves, an increase of 65% on 2019, vied for three hundred pounds shared between the class winners sponsored by the British Simmental Society. The Cornwall Simmental Club provided rosettes and awarded the buyers of the top lot in each class £25.00. Peter & Stephanie Hooper and David Reeves Castle Farm, CastleAn-Dinas St Columb Major swept the board this year taking the top spot in each of the classes. Offering pure bred Simmentals and well as cross bred cattle Their consignment of eighteen Simmentals averaged £630 for steers and £599.00 for heifers. A special thank you to Mrs P.E. Williams Pendeen, Penzance with eighteen forward and Messrs RAF & RM Roberts Gweek, Helston for their continued support of the Simmental section and a warm welcome to Mr D.G. Kitchen, Nancegollan Heston, Messrs P.M. & A. Jewell, Alverton, Penzance and Mr A. Kemp Tregony, Truro entering for the first time. Pleasing to hear that several females were purchased for breeding. Results: Class 1. Steers born after 01.03.2020 1st: Messrs A.P. & S.R. Hooper 2 @ £750.00 - buyer Mr N J Bennetts Zelah 2nd Messrs P.M. & A. Jewell 4 @ £735.00 3rd Mrs P.E. Williams 11@ £730.00

Sowenna Aristocrat 2013

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REGIONAL CLUB REPORTS

Class 2. Heifers born after 01.03.2020 1st Messrs A.P. & S.R. Hooper 1 @ £645.00 – buyer Mr A.P. Kemp Tregony 2nd Messrs A.P. & S.R. Hooper 2 @ £610.00 3rd Messrs P.M. & A. Jewell 5 @ £600.00 4th Mrs P.E. Williams 7 @ £580.00 Class 3. Steers born after 01.10.2019 – 29.02.20 1st Messrs A.P. & S.R. Hooper 1 @ £770.00 – buyer Messrs G.R. Hosking Penzance 2nd Messrs A.P. & S.R. Hooper 3 @ £750.00 3rd Messrs RAF & RM Roberts 3 @ £625.00 4th Messrs A.P. & S.R. Hooper 2 @ £570.00 Class 4. Heifers born after 01.10.2019 – 29.02.20 1st Messrs A.P. & S.R. Hooper 1 @ £645.00 – buyer Mr A.P. Kemp Tregony 2nd Messrs A.P. & S.R. Hooper 2 @ £630.00 3rd Messrs A.P. & S.R. Hooper 1 @ 600.00 4th Messrs A.P. & S.R. Hooper 2 @ £570.00

2020, The year of Anniversaries (and lockdown!) by Penny Lally Cornwall club is 30 this year though celebrations will be ‘virtual ‘I fear for the ‘Virus’ has put pay to much fun changing life as we knew it for everyone We went ‘independent’ from friends in the South West Because of ‘geography’ we thought it best Before ‘independence’ John Langdon was Chair

SOCIAL EVENTS/HERD VISITS/SPEAKERS/ DEMONSTRATIONS We have built up a reputation for being a friendly club and aim to provide plenty of enjoyable social events during the year including an annual dinner and quiz. Other activities have involved cycling the Camel Trail, Boat trips, Turn Out Lunch, and Murder Mystery evenings. Since 2004 the club has facilitated herd visits to every corner of the British Isles and Southern Ireland. The hospitality we have enjoyed has been brilliant, cattle outstanding and scenery breathtaking. We have all learnt so much from fellow breeders and welcomed other clubs to Cornwall. The Cornwall Club is pro-active in keeping their members informed of innovations both to improve the quality of British Simmental Cattle being offered to other breeders, whether pedigree or commercial, and enable members to make management decisions to improve their own returns. Talks have covered Estimated Breeding Values, Raising Herd Health status, Scanning, Butchers talks on trade requirements, Marketing Livestock, Introducing Female Classification, Show Preparation, Grassland Management, Breed characteristics that Judges seek, Embryo Transfers, I.V.F. Technology and Nuffield sponsored research projects.

From the good Carnon herd, we held meetings there A huge supporter of our club ‘till he died He enjoyed our club events far and wide Our enthusiastic members are always quite keen To travel wherever there are cattle to be seen To East and to West and over the sea To great breeders who welcome with cakes and tea We’ve had adventures in Ireland ,Scotland and Wales And a journey to Norfolk where our best plan fails ! Seven cramped hours in a minibus instead of a plane Which ,fogbound, was cancelled… never again ! We’ve sampled Whiskey in distilleries, visited a farm breeding ducks Greyhound racing in Dublin, to win fortunes we’d no luck Walked on the Giants Causeway, been on the Falkirk Wheel We’ve met super people, had many an enjoyable meal Travelled thousands miles in coaches and hired cars Shared drinks with fellow breeders in various bars Throughout all the years, what our trips have done Is to open our eyes to much fine breeding (and fun) As a result this has helped us continually improve Our herds of the magnificent breed we all love Breeders from Cornwall have bred cattle of note Also bought in quality beasts, some arriving by boat Sold well at breed sales, having travelled for miles Had success in the Show scene of ‘sashes and smiles’ Please come, give us a visit, we’ve got excellent stock A warm welcome awaits when the country ‘unlocks’ So in this year of no shows, no trips, not much fun Keep ‘zooming’ and keep smiling, stay safe everyone.

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CORNWALL SIMMENTAL CLUB 1990 – 2020

Our 30th Anniversary

REGIONAL CLUBS AND BREEDERS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME WE WOULD BE PLEASED TO ORGANISE HERD VISITS FOR YOU

List of Club Members based in Cornwall Ian and Sandra Backway - Commercial Jim, Jean and Steven Buckland - Wellatree & Angwelha Bob and Don Cowell – Hawkhill & Commercial Jimmy & Elaine George & Son Commercial Jonathan & Alison Grose & Sons - Trewarnevas Steven and Gill Gummow – Killiworgie Viv Hall - Chegwidden Ant Hart – Treverbyn Keith, Caroline and Piers Hawkey -Sowenna Steph Hooper - Tregnether Peter and Steph Hooper & David Reece – Commercial George and Lucy Hosken – Tregowris Adele Jewell - Rosewin Penny Lally - Chyanhal John and Bridget Olds – Bosahan Secretary m: 07565 757792 Kevin Thomas - Crowgey Megan Welington – Pennytinney Edward White - Commercial Liz Williams – Commercial Barrie Wynter - Bolankin - Chairman m: 07590 501096 For locations, directions and more information about Members’ pedigree and commercial herds please use this hyper link to Google Maps:

https://goo.gl/maps/1KV5qq5MsBWT8QtQ9

FOR 2021 EVENTS VISIT www.cornwallsimmentalclub

East Anglian Simmental Club Report by Nigel Darling - Chairman

s I am sure with all other groups COVID-19 has significantly impaired our activities without shows and sales going on. We have also not had our usual meetings due to the pandemic. We did try to arrange a ZOOM meeting but thanks to BT many members still do not have adequate Broadband so that closed that avenue for us. There was one bright spot in the year and that was managing to have a herd competition during the summer when restrictions were lifted. Dennis Mitchell kindly judged the competition and thanked the Club for inviting him to judge the 2020 herd competition and further thanked everyone who made him welcome to their farms. He commented: “I found it more difficult than I thought it was going to be to view the cattle on various days, and judged the competition with my commercial hat on as well as pedigree breeding. It was a pleasure to go around and see all the herds in the competition. I think the overall quality of Simmental cattle is very good and would stand up to inspection from Simmental breeders from anywhere in the UK. I think people should always remember the commercial market in their thoughts, when breeding pedigree cattle and focus on animals which suit their own farming system, and the meat industry in general. I wish everybody success in the future and believe the Simmental breed still has big opportunities and potential in the years to come.

All at the club thank Dennis for his dedication and attention to detail in both the Judging and his helpful comments. On a sad note, we must note the passing of Tony Hurn a longstanding member of the club who will be sadly missed, and our heart goes out to his widow Phillida . Whilst the show and sales have been curtailed members have found other ways of selling their cattle with much success in off the farm sales for quality bulls. Let us all hope we can get back to some form of normality in 2021.

East Anglia Simmental Club 2020 Herd Competition Results Bull Calf Born 2020 1st Fircovert Legend-Fircovert Simmentals 2nd Rendham Luther-Rendham Simmentals 3rd Hollybrook Laser-Hollybrook Simmentals Heifer Calf born 2020 1st Guiltcross Luna-Guiltcross Simmentals 2nd Williams Auror’s Lilly-William Clarke Livestock 3rd Rendham Lexi-Rendham Simmentals Cow & Calf 1st Rendham Holly & Rendham Lexi-Rendham Simmentals 2nd Sterling Ezzie & Guiltcross Luna-Guiltcross Simmentals 3rd Key Snow Queen & Goddards Lord Nelson-Goddards Simmentals Family group 1st Thursford Tina 21st Family-Hollybrook Simmentals 2nd Williams Simone’s Crystal Family-William Clarke Livestock 3rd Rendham Forever Family Family-Rendham Simmentals Stock Bull 1st Saltire Inness-William Clarke Livestock 2nd Theberton Genesis-Theberton Simmentals 3rd Key Indi-Goddard Simmentals Judges choice (pair) 1st Langhale Candy & Kracker-Langhale Simmentals 2nd Theberton Joanne & King Power-Theberton Simmentals 3rd Rendham Jem & Joules-Rendham Simmentals Overall & Champion Herd Andrew & Hayley Clarke-William Clarke Livestock. This was a very well matched herd of cattle, which Hayley & Andrew have reduced in numbers to achieve this standard. 2nd Brice Family-Rendham Simmentals I felt the cows and heifers calves were better than the other cows but still a good herd of cattle. 3rd Sharon Morter Langhale Simmentals Again some good cattle and is improving by strict culling for this small herd

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The Review 2020

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Midlands Club Report by Jennie Ward - Chairman

s with many clubs our usual events were curtailed due to Covid. However, some noticeable events that still managed to take place were; The success of the Woods family in purchasing, at a record price of €52,000, Clonagh Lucky Explorer at the Roscommon Premier Sale. Good Luck with him and we will look forward to seeing his progeny. Michael and John Barlow had a very successful time at Stirling selling both males and females, well done. Another of our club members, Lady Barbour (Lambclose), celebrated her 100th Birthday in the summer, congratulations from the Midlands Club. Richard Storer-Smith and Chris Martindale, both members of the Midlands Club, were elected to the Simmental Council, we wish them both luck in their roles. In the year we had sad news in the summer of the passing of Hugo Arnold, he was a true gentleman and one of the most successful and influential breeders in the Simmental world. Our sympathies go out to the Arnold family. It seemed fitting therefore, that James Arnold won the Society’s 2020 ‘Virtual’ Show with Vale Royal Girlie, a great achievement with so many cattle entered, congratulations James. We hope all breed members and their families have stayed safe during the pandemic and look forward to hopefully meeting up again in the not too distant future. Hopefully our halters won’t be hanging up next year.

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Highcross Simmentals F.I. & E. J. Barnes & Sons

Visitors welcome by appointment!

Polled Simmental’s with predominantly Danish Genetics, formerly of the Lopemede Herd. Hall Farm, Little Lawford, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV23 0JJ James: 07966 463869 & Andrew: 07973 362214 highcrosssimmentals Email: highcrosssimmentals@gmail.com

North East Club Report By Jayne Pick -Secretary

020, what a strange and unpredictable year. It certainly has been tough, and our thoughts go out to everyone who has been directly affected through loss of family members or friends.

Expectations for the 50th Anniversary Celebrations were soon dashed, along with the usual shows, sales, club activities and just normal life. Hopefully 2021 will see the virus under control and conclude a very difficult and emotional episode in all our lives. Our only club event to take place this year was the virtual herd competition, kindly organised by Katie Boyes. Thank you and many congratulations to the winners and all entrants. It is not easy to take photographs, it can be very time consuming as well as frustrating! Special thanks to our judge, Mr Simon Key. Photographs of all the entrants can be viewed on the North East Club Facebook page.

Class 1 Clonagh Joker Poker

Results Class 1 – Stock bull 1st - Clonagh Joker Poker 2nd - Woodhall Everheart 3rd - Overhill House Groggan 4th - Swaledale Dictator Class 2-Young bull 1st- Midhope Kevin Class 3- Cow 1st - Midhope Heavenly Light 2nd - Tidkin Dion 3rd - Goskins Eliza 4th - Goskins Florence Class 4 – 2020 born bull calf 1st - Tidkin Leon 2nd - Midhope Larry 3rd - Tidkin Legacy 4th - Rainbow Lambert Class 5 – 2020 born heifer calf

Class 2 Midhope Kevin

1 - Tidkin Liberty st

2nd - Midhope Heavenly Light Lovely 3rd - Deerholme Lottie 4th - Goskin Leafy Class 6 – Best group heifers 1st - Midhope Herd 2nd - Deerholme Herd 3rd - Tidkin Herd 4th - Goskin Herd Class 7 – Simmental sired commercial calf born 2020 1st - Deerholme herd 2nd - Goskin herd 3rd - Goskin herd Class 8 - Just for fun 1st - Deerholme herd 2nd - Goskin herd 3rd - Deerholme herd 4th - Deerholme herd 5th - Goskin herd

Class 3 Midhope Heavenly Light 166

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REGIONAL CLUB REPORTS

Class 4 Tidkin Leon

Class 8 Deerholme herd

Congratulations also to Andrew & Yvonne Leedham (Grangewood) and Andrew & Ruth Steele (Weeton) for being placed in the ‘Virtual’ 2020 Simmental Society show. It was a tremendous advert for the breed to have so many superb photographs of Simmental cattle online. The Overall Supreme Champion was awarded to Vale Royal Heavenly Girlie owned and bred by Mr James Arnold. Well Done. Class 5 Tidkin Liberty

Continuing with the online theme, many congratulations to John, Val & Craig Hollingsworth for winning the beef section of the Farmers Guardian online competition with Midhope Heavenly Light. On a personal note I would like to congratulate my daughter and club member Sarah who was awarded a Nuffield Farming Scholarship in 2019. Sarah recently presented her findings on her chosen subject ‘Heifer replacement strategies: cost reduction in the UK suckler beef herd’.

Class 6 Midhope herd

I will finish my report with the sad news of the passing of Brian Lundy, one of the founder members of the Eastern Simmental Cattle Breeders Club. Brian established the Caistor Herd in the 1990’s and went on to breed numerous show winners and stock bulls. Latterly Brian was influential in not only bringing Danish polled breeding into his herd but encouraging other breeders to use polled genetics. Brian was known the length and breadth of the country for his knowledge and enthusiasm for the breed. Although the herd was dispersed due to Brian’s ill health last year, Caistor bloodlines will continue to be influential within the breed. He will be sadly missed by his many friends and fellow breeders.

Class 7 Deerholme herd The Review 2020

167

North West Club Kirkstone Simmentals on the Common.

ryo Robert Fitton’s calf from an emb imported from Northern Ireland

Tilly and William Loftus, Tilly is with Clearwater Kiss Me Quick and William is with Clearwater Latte and Lightening

Robert Fitton, What’s this virtual show about?

John Wigham Jnr aged almost 7 with the imaginatively named pet Simmental heife r ‘Calfie’

Rose the Golden Retriever photo bombing Robert Fitton’s Virtual Show photography

Blackpool Simmentals

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k S r i mmentals a P r o n a M Livestock always for sale QP

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NI Simmental Cattle Breeders’ Club Report by Conrad Fegan - Chairman

020 started off with Northern Irish breeders heading across the water to the Stirling bull sale. Leading the Northern Ireland prices at 9,000gns was Ranfurly Jackpot bred by David and Jonny Hazelton, Dungannon. Next best at 6,200gns was Kilbride Farm Jules bred by Billy Robson and Sons from Doagh, Ballyclare. Six bulls bred by the Robson family averaged £4,550 each. The Spring Sale in Stirling also proved memorable for Nigel Glasgow, Cookstown, who claimed the Junior Championship ribbons with Bridgewater Farm Jazzman. He came under the hammer at 6,000gns. Fermanagh breeders Harold Stubbs, and grandson Alan Burleigh, also had a terrific day in the pre-sale show claiming the Reserve Junior Championship with Derrycallaghan Jasper who went on to sell for 3,000gns.

Ranfurly Jackpot 9000gns

Unfortunately the Covid-19 pandemic was responsible for the cancellation of the Club’s scheduled shows and sales and provincial agricultural shows. However, the British Simmental Cattle Society’s virtual show took the internet by storm. It was an absolute credit to the Society with the ten classes attracting 745 entries from 161 breeders. NI Simmental Cattle Breeders’ Club members excelled in the competition, which is testimony to the quality of cattle and the high standard of stockmanship. Well done to everyone who took part, and congratulations to the prize winners! In mid-July two local herds made history by exporting 11 cattle to pedigree breeders in Switzerland and Germany. The Omorga Herd owned by Harry and John Moore, Beragh, sold two bulls and six heifers; while Richard Rodgers, Portglenone, sold one bull and two heifers from his Hiltonstown Herd. Early September saw the third production sale from the Ranfurly and Ballinlare Farm herds. Taking the top price of 7,000gns was Ranfurly Beauty 13th from David and Jonny Hazelton. Topping Joe and Alan Wilson’s consignment at 4,900gns was Bannhill Farm Jinx. The Ranfurly herd sold 18 heifers 170

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Kilbride Farm Jules 6200gns

to average £4,243, while the Ballinlare Farm offering averaged £2,615 for 25 lots. Congratulations to both herds on another successful sale. October finally brought a sale for our breeders at Dungannon. Although there was a small entry of bulls, there was a steady trade and the sale average increased £516 on the previous year. The club is indebted to Bimeda for its generous sponsorship. Topping the autumn sale at 3,500gns was Wellbray Kingbee bred by David McElmurry, Pomeroy. The second highest price of 3,000gns went to Drumacritten Kyle bred by Willie and George Nelson, Rosslea. The

Nelson family also realised 2,400gns for Drumacritten Ken. In early December NI Simmental Club stalwart Billy Robson OBE, and sons Michael and Norman, announced another ‘export first’ with the sale of 32 embryos from their noted Kilbride Farm Herd going to the Knox Farms Herd in Australia. Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to wish fellow Simmental breeders and their families a safe, happy and prosperous 2021. I hope things will be back to normal very soon. Take care and stay safe. Conrad Fegan (Chairman)

REGIONAL CLUB REPORTS

Bridgewater Farm Jazzman 6000gns

Derrycallaghan Jasper 3000gns

Wellbray Kingbee

Drumacritten Kyle

CORRICK

Est 1979

Simmentals

Corric k Hamlet (Pic tured at 15 months)

Corric k Kay (by Hamlet)

Corric k Kara Vena Diana (by Hamlet)

Limited amount of Hamlet semen available for sale

Cec il Mc Ilwaine & Sons

High Herd Health Corrick, Newtownstewart, Co Tyrone, N.Ireland, BT78 4DP Young Stock Tel: 07720081180 BVD & Johnes free usually for sale Email: neilmcil@hotmail.co.uk

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Scottish Simmental Club Report by Richard Pettit-Secretary.

hope all our members are keeping safe and well in these unprecedented times.

The year started normally with the February Bull Sales at Stirling, then everything we had planned for the year was postponed, with no stockjudging events, Highland show or herd visits as had been anticipated.

ABERDEEN & NORTHERN MARTS SALE, SPRING SHOW Topping the trade on the day at 8,500gns was Islavale Jester 18, bred by W S Stronach, Islavale herd, Keith.

However, on a brighter note, the Scottish Simmental Club will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2021 and we hope to celebrate the occasion later in the year if possible. A look at some of the highlights of the 2020 year includes:

FEBRUARY 2020 STIRLING SALE The sale topped at 18,000gns for the Overall and Intermediate champion from the King family’s Wolfstar herd. Wolfstar Jackaroo, by Team Celtic, sold to the judge Phillip Simmers. Phillip Simmers also paid the next-best price of 17,000gns for the reserve senior champion. This was another entry from the Wolfstar herd, Wolfstar Jimmy Choo, by Islavale Guy.

Richard Pettit Scottish Club Secretary presenting Society’s crystal vase to Garry Patterson (on behalf of W.G. MacPherson) Wolfstar Jimmy Choo Next best at 10,000gns was a first-prize intermediate bull from the McNee family with Finlarg Jaguar. 172

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The second top price on the day was the Champion bull Blackford Jaguar 18, bred by Mr W G Macpherson, Blackford Farm, sold for 5,800gns. The Reserve Champion bull, Tillyeve Jason 18, bred by Messrs C & M Bruce Sold for 4,800gns.

REGIONAL CLUB REPORTS

SCOTTISH SIMMENTAL CLUB ‘VIRTUAL’ SHOW The Club’s main event this year was our online virtual show, started by a suggestion from a Club member. It soon became very popular with 49 of the Clubs members participating in at least one class. Congratulations to Michael Durno who won overall, with Auchorachan Autumn and Corskie with the Reserve Champion, Corskie Haze.

Class 6a 1st Newbiemains King

J&P GOLDIE

2nd Auchorachan Kaiser

M. DURNO

3rd Lagavaich Kojak

G. WRIGHT

4th Corksie Kunzite 5th Greencap Kracker Class 6b 1st Corksie Jackpot

J GUNN & J SMITH

2nd Wolfstar Jackaroo

R SIMMERS

3rd Caithness Jenson

J GUNN (JENSON)

4th Auchorachan Jazz 5th Rocktop Jackpot

We would also like to mention committee member Jonathan Gunn and Joanne Smith who did so well in the British Simmental Cattle Society’s 2020 ‘Virtual’ Show again held online.

Class 7 1st Backmuir Kreole Jazz

R SIMMERS

2nd Keeldrum Tzigane L20

D. LOWRY

3rd Islavale Illusion

S STRONACH

4th Chestermann Data Madame 2.

Results

5th Drumsleed Janine.

Class 1

Class 8

1st Glenturk Legacy.-

GRAHAM ALLAN

1st Corskie Haze

I GREEN

2nd Islavale Lilo.

STEWART STRONACH

2nd Redhill Gina

D LESLIE

3rd Rockytop Ginas Legacy

G. CHRISTIE

3rd Quarryhill Heidi

G& K ANDERSON

4th Castlewigg Data Girlie.

4th Keeldrum Tina

5th Newbiemains Lady Willow.

Joint 5th Garmouth Clovers Honeysuckle and Innerwick Greta .

Class 2 1st Islavale Lucifer

S. STRONACH

2nd Backmuir Ladysman

R. SIMMERS

1st Auchorahan autumn

M DURNO

3rd Keeldrum Lonzo

D. LOWRY

2nd Star line Kutz 47

R SIMMERS J&P GOLDIE

Class 9

4th Pitmudie Lincoln

3rd Newbimains Frangipanni

5th Drumsleed Lynx

4th Chestermann Wick Rhiannon

Class 3

5th Islavale Tarka 3

1 Auchorachan Hilly 35,

M. DURNO

Class 10

2nd - Islavale Kelpie,

S. STRONACH

1. Sapling Flynn

R TURNER

3rd - Backmuir Eva’s Kenya,

R. SIMMERS

2. Islavale Imperial

R. SIMMERS

4th - Garmouth Elderflower Kalma,

3. Williams Eddie

D LESLIE

5th - Merkland Flora.

4. Rockytop I’m Yer Man

Class 4

5. Rockytop Invader

1st Drumsleed Katmandu,

D. SMITH

Commercial class

2nd Keeldrum Kezel,

D. LOWRY

Class 11 Heifers

3rd Glenturk Kingpin,

G. CHRISTIE

1st Dorothy Moffat. Innerwick.

4th Corskie Karter,

2nd Jonathan Gunn. Mavsey.

5th Greencap Klassik

3rd Reese Simmers. Backmuir.

Class 5A

Class 11 Steers

1st Auchorachan Ketta.

M. DURNO

1st D.Leslie.

2nd Newbiemains Klass Act.

J&P GOLDIE

2nd G.Christie. Rockytop

3rd Garmouth Glorys Kara.

L. BEATTIE

3rd. J. Gunn. Mavsey.

4 Lintmill Kiwi.

CHAMPION

5th Mavsey Komet.

AUCHORACHAN AUTUMN

Class 5b

RESERVE

1st Coltfield Jennifer

J. MACIVER

2nd Auchorachan Hilly 26

M. DURNO

3rd Chestermann Empire Stella 3

N&N GWYNNE

CORSKIE HAZE

M DURNO I GREEN.

4th Rockytop Fimbles Jitterbug 5th Innerwick Jellybean.

Class 1 Glenturk Legacy

Class 2 Islavale Lucifer

Class 3 Auchorachan Hilly The Review 2020

173

OCTOBER STIRLING SALE The two top prices of 14000gns were from Islavale, firstly with Islavale Kristoff, who sold to Pitgaveny Farms, and then also with Islavale Kai.

Class 4 Drumsleed Katmandu

Class 5b Coltfield Jennifer

Class 5 Auchorachan Ketta

Class 6A Newbiemains King

Lauren, Ellie and Fiona with their two 14,000gns bulls.

Class 6B Corskie Jackpot

Class 7 Backmuir Kreole Jazz

Islavale Kai made 14,000gns Class 8 Corskie Haze - also Reserve Champion

Class 9 Auchorachan Autumn Overall Champion

Class 10 and Male Champion Sapling Flynn

Commercial heifer winner Dorothy Moffat Innerwick

Next at 11,500gns was Strathisla Kinloch, from Adrian Ivory, Strathisla.

Strathisla Kinloch made 11,500gns Gordon Clark’s Broombrae herd sold at 10,000gn for Broombrae Kojac, to David Lowry.

Commercial steer winner - Danny Leslie, Redhill 174

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The Review 2020

175

South East Simmental Club Report by Chairman Chris Patmore

n these strange times its difficult to compile a report as very little has happened club wise since last November’s dinner and prize presentation.

Class 1

Due to COVID-19 the group’s annual dinner at the Farmer’s Club in Whitehall which was to be our 40th event was cancelled. Local breeders and people interested in the breed met regularly in a pub at Sevenoaks in the early 70s. 1973 was the official formation of the group which then met in the great Northern Hotel, London. It was under the chairmanship of the late Russell Steggles (Watton Herd) in 1980 who suggested an annual dinner which was held at the Royal Horseguards Hotel, London following a meeting in the Farmers Club. Some 30 members attended and the cost was £9 per head including wine! Audrey Wrinch, Breed Secretary, and George Steele, Chairman of Finance, represented the Society. Ray Newcombe BVSc, MSc, Frcvs,, who was one of the pioneers of embryo transplant, was the guest speaker. It was interesting that George Steele announced that day that there were more registered members in the South East than in the whole of Scotland and Northern Ireland, how things have changed. The annual dinner has been one of the highlights over the years where it has been held at the Farmers Club since 1988 and over these years the Society Chief Executive, and along with the herd judge for that year, have always been invited. Things move on. This year’s dinner cost was to be £50 not including wine and room hire. Let’s hope we can try again in 2021. We did hold a virtual show kindly judged by John Barlow of the Denizes herd, and very ably coordinated by Lynn Rix. The results were as follows;

Class 2

South East Simmental Club Virtual Show Results Class 1 Heifer Calf born after Jan 1st 2020. 1st Mixbury Hall Lucinda.

VJN Bailey.

2nd Key Tabitha.

Simon Key.

Class 2 Bull Calf born after Jan 1st 2020. 1st Mixbury Hall Lexus.

VJN Bailey

2nd Norman Luke.

Chris Patmore

Class 3 Heifer born in 2019 1st Mixbury Hall Kesha.

VJN Bailey

2nd Swallowhill Kiri.

Dailey Jones

Class 4 Heifer born 2018 1st Boars Head Nelly 8th.

Peter and Rys Grenham

2nd Key Genesis.

Simon Key

Class 3

Class 5 Cow and calf 1st. Roding Bluebell.

The Rix Family

2nd. Heathbrow Sarah’s Holly.

Nicola Osgood

Class 6 Stock bull 1st Tilbrook Frank.

VJN. Bailey

2nd Sway Hector.

The Jones Family

Overall Campion Tilbrook Frank

VJN. Bailey

Reserve Champion Mixbury Hall Kesha

VJN. Bailey

Class 4 176

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REGIONAL CLUB REPORTS

Class 5

Class 6

Sales of animals from members have been good considering there have been no breed sales. Daisy Jones (Beeches) has been very bullish (excuse the pun) selling 16 heifers and 2 bulls through her Facebook page and SellMyLivestock. This included 3 yearling heifers to Rhian Thomas in Wales; 6 yearling heifers to JR Kent and Sons in Norfolk; 4 heifers to Sally Newman in Hampshire; and 3 heifers to R L Root and Sons in Leicestershire. She also sold a bull, Beeches Kestral, to J M Frood and Son in Essex, and another bull to SDJJ Feakes in East Sussex. Chris Patmore sold 10 females north of the border to Jim MacLaren. All polled, high health and TB4. Five were in-calf to a homozygous bull and have calved successfully, the other 5 were maiden heifers. Three bulls were sold, 1 to Glen Ellis in Huddersfield; 1 to John Frost in Essex; and 1 to repeat customer David Layzell. All were polled and high health. Bridget Borlase sold 2 bulls, 1 to Anne McPherson and 1 to Cogent.

The Review 2020

177

South West Simmental Club Report by Dawn Shapland

his year began, in the traditional manner with the Interbreed Quiz. Our team, Adrian Curry, Kath Edwards, Steve Shapland and myself, performed creditably and finished in second place behind the Beef Shorthorns. A young member of their team, with an encyclopaedic knowledge of Olympic Games venues, totally scuppering us in the final round!

donated to the Beacon Centre at Musgrove Park Hospital.

Rob and Pam Hewlett, Chris and David Mills and Philip Webber.

At its usual venue, Oake Manor Golf Club, the A.G.M took place on the first Monday in March. There was only one change to the club Committee and Officers with Rupert Ridout (Woodlea Herd), joining the Committee, as the only nominee for the single vacancy that had arisen.

£120 was raised from a raffle and the auction of two bottles of Whisky. Our very grateful thanks go to Jack Ellicott, Clive Roads and all who donated the prizes.

Eleven teams took part and I am sure they would all join me in wishing our Quizmaster, Tony Walker, a happy retirement.

After many, many phone calls and hours spent, the Chairman and myself failed to engage a guest speaker for the evening, and it fell to me to organise some entertainment. Thank you to all that took part and congratulations to David Barker’s “team”,

An excellent £165 was raised on the evening, which David Barker announced would be

Heywood Herd Dispersal Sale The eagerly awaited dispersal of David Barker's Heywood Herd, took place on Saturday 12th December at Sedgemoor Market. Unfortunately due to Covid restrictions many potential purchasers and well wishers were unable to attend. Nonetheless, David and his team of helpers, John and Freddy Barker, Laura and Guy French, had the cattle presented in tip top condition. Highest price was Heywood Empress 10th with her October born heifer calf Heywood Empress 11th, the last calf to carry the Heywood prefix. They sold for 5000gns to Laura French, who also purchased her year older half sister, Empress 9th. 2019 bull, Heywood Kramer sold for 1800gns to Chris Tucker's Goldhill Herd and John May secured Heywood Kracker at 2300 gns to join the Priorton Herd.

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An early casualty of the Covid pandemic was the May Society Show and Sale at Worcester. A great shame but the decision to cancel was inevitable. With all Shows and events also wiped out, we can but hope things will improve in 2021 with the rollout of a vaccination programme.

REGIONAL CLUB REPORTS

The South West Simmental Club Herd Competition 2020. Judges report – David Edwards, Silver Moor herd To all members who submitted photographic entries to the 2020 herd competition, thank you for your participation. The quality of the cattle bred in the South West is clearly demonstrated as outstanding. Obviously, I would love to have seen the cattle in their home environment rather than as photographs, which I have printed from my computer, but there is no point in dwelling on those regrets. This year’s competition has been in the form of photographs because of circumstances completely beyond our control, and I am sure that we are all grateful that we are able to participate in the competition by means of modern technology. I must assure all competitors that at the time of scrutinizing the photos, I had no idea who owned each animal or where,

Class 1 - 1st Castlegate Eric

Class 2 - 1st Killiworgie Kasanova

Class 3 - 1st Killiworgie Knightrider

within the South West area, each herd might be situated. In some respects, this is an advantage, but it doesn’t quite make up for seeing the animal in the flesh, walking around it, viewing from all angles and checking its locomotion. Although in the majority of cases the photographs were very good (this eased the task considerably) I did try to look beyond the photos when considering how the animal was presented to the camera. There is no doubt that the quality of the photo could affect the judgement. If (God forbid) we should be in the same situation in future and forced to have a photographic competition again, I would recommend that at least two pictures should be submitted, with the animal in profile and of the back end.

Class 1 - 2nd Islavale Jericho

Judging the cattle was not an easy task, and I took some time to make my choice. I chose the cattle which I considered correct and quality. The Chairman asked me to select an Overall Champion which caused me much heart searching, and a lot of going back over the photos over and over again. It was eventually narrowed down between a bull and a heifer. A close run choice between two first class animals, my final choice is Bull 1 in Class 1. Castlegale Eric, owned by the Hawkey family. In conclusion, may I thank Adrian and the Club for affording me the privilege of judging the competition, a task which I thoroughly enjoyed. David Edwards

Class 1 - 3rd Dinton Brunel

Class 2 - 2nd Skylark Kover

Class 3 - 2nd Bosahan Kane 20

Class 3 - 3rd Sowenna Kelvin The Review 2020

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Class 4 - 1st Bosahan Luciano 20

Class 4 - 2nd Brynsworthy Leo

Class 4 - 3rd Killiworgie Lockdown

Class 5 - 1st Killiworgie Fancy Nancy

Class 5 - 2nd Winford Vogue 11

Class 5 - 3rd Bolankin Clarinda

Class 6 - 1st Killiworgie Gillys Jewel

Class 6 - 2nd Wellatree Jemima

Class 6 - 3rd Bosahan Jessica Star

Class 7 - 1st Sowenna Jet

Class 7 - 2nd Winford Jasmine

Class 7 - 3rd Bosahan Joelle Alesha (P)

Class 8 - 1st Killiworgie Camelias Kersensa

Class 8 - 2nd Winford Kandy

Class 8 - 3rd Treverbyn Keira

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REGIONAL CLUB REPORTS

Class 9 - 1st Killiworgie Graces Kelly

Class 9 - 2nd Cherry’s Kalmia

Class 9 - 3rd Bosahan Kenna Clover

Class 10 - 1st Wellatree Kittiwake

Class 10 - 2nd Bosahan Guim Kea

Class 10 - 3rd Killiworgie Karma

Class 11 - 1st Winford Lucinda

Class 11 - 2nd Wellatree Lilybum

Class 11 - 3rd Brynsworthy Crocus Lavender

Herd competition judge, Autumn 2020

Results

Class 1 – Stock bull born before 01/01/2019

Class 7 – Heifer born on or between 01/08/2018 and 31/12/2018

1st Castlegate Eric 05/08/2013 Mr & Mrs Hawkey

1st Sowenna Jet 23/09/2018 Mr & Mrs Hawkey

2nd Islavale Jericho 12/04/2018 Mr S A Gummow

2nd Winford Jasmine 29/10/2018 Mr L & Mr A Curry

3 Dinton Brunel 16/04/2010 Mr & Mrs Shapland

3rd Bosahan Joelle Alesha 04/10/2018 Mr & Mrs Olds

Class 2 – Bull born on or before 01/01/2019 and 31/07/19

Class 8 – Heifer born on or between 01/01/2019 and 31/08/2019

1st Killiworgie Kasanova 04/07/2019 Mr S A Gummow

1st Killiworgie Camelias Kersensa 25/02/2019 Mr S A Gummow

2nd Skylark Kover 15/07/2019 The Reed Family

2nd Winford Kandy 07/02/2019 Mr L & Mr A Curry

Class 3 – Bull born on or before 01/08/2019 and 31/12/2019

3rd Treverbyn Keira 04/01/2019 Mr A Hart

1st Killiworgie Knightrider 12/11/19 Mr S A Gummow

Class 9 – Heifer born on between 01/04/2019 and 31/07/2019

2nd Bosahan Kane 18/11/2019 Mr & Mrs Olds

1st Killiworgie Graces Kelly 02/05/2019 Mr S A Gummow

3rd Sowenna Kelvin 12/09/2019 Mr & Mrs Hawkey

2nd Chapman Cherry Kalmia 02/05/2019 Mr & Mrs Bush

Class 4 – Bull Calf born on or after 01/01/2020

3rd Bosahan Kendra Clover 01/05/2019 Mr & Mrs Olds

1st Bosahan Luciano 21/04/2020 Mr & Mrs Olds

Class 10 – Heifer born on or between 01/08.2019 and 31/12/2019

2nd Brynsworthy Leo 05/07/2020 Mr & Mrs Shapland

1st Wellatree Kittiwake 14/08/2019 Mr & Mrs J Buckland

3 Killiworgie Lockdown 07/05/2020 Mr S A Gummow

2nd Bosahan Katie Guin Bea 22/09/2019 Mr & Mrs Olds

Class 5 – Cow any age

3rd Killiworgie Karma 13/08/2019 Mr S A Gummow

1st Killiworgie Fancy Nancy 11/02/2014 Mr S A Gummow

Class 11 – Heifer Calf born on or after 01/01/2020

2nd Winford Vogue 11 28/01/2016 Mr L & Mr A Curry

1st Winford Lucinda 10/01/2020 Mr L & Mr A Curry

3 Bolankin Clarinda 15/02/2011 Mr B Wynter

2nd Wellatree Lilybum 02/01/2020 Mr & Mrs J Buckland

Class 6 – Heifer born on or between 01/01/2018 and 31/07/2018

3rd Brynsworthy Crocus Lavender 27/04/2020 Mr & Mrs Shapland

1st Killiworgie Gillys Jewel 22/02/2018 Mr S A Gummow 2nd Wellatree Jemima 01/01/2018 Mr & Mrs J Buckland 3rd Bosahan Jessica Star 24/02/2018 Mr & Mrs Olds

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Welsh Simmental Club Report by Aled Davies Chairman

020 began as normal with our annual dinner and social at the Cottage Inn Llandeilo, where we all had a lovely meal and a chance to catch up and talk about cows, what else! A couple of months later on 8th March it was our AGM held at the Marine Hotel, Aberystwyth, where our then Society President Mr Michael Barlow joined us for a lovely meal and puddings to die for. Following an informal discussion and Society update by Michael we got down to the official part, our AGM, where the following officials were elected to office for the coming year. Chairman – Aled Davies Vice-Chairman – Meirion Jones Secretary – Callum Croft Treasurer – Chris Waters Young member’s representative – Callum Croft

Male Champion Welston Harry

I would like to take this opportunity to thank our outgoing Chairman Dafydd Jones, and Secretary Anwen Jones, for their time and support given to the club during their time in office. Diolch yn fawr. After our AGM, where all the chat was about our breed’s 50th anniversary year full of celebrations and what everyone had to show this year, BANG came COVID 19 and changed not just our plans as a breed but our lives unknowingly for the year and beyond. As a club and a breed this was a blow and a big change in our show routine, but of course everyones safety and wellbeing has to come first. As the spring rolled into summer and no meetings, no shows, as a club we decided to hold our own virtual Welsh club show which was kindly judged by father and son duo Rob and Josh Evans from the Wroxall herd. My thanks go to all the members for taking time out sitting in a field trying to catch the animals standing in the correct way, not an easy task believe you me. Also, thanks to our secretary for sending photos to our judges and publicising our event and results on social media giving the club and breed great exposure. Final thanks go to our judges, not an easy task especially when you get a class of 28 cows, well done. My congratulations must go to Mr Martin Beynon, Gwili herd, on winning Overall Champion with a great example of a Simmental cow, and to Huw James of the Mwnt herd on Reserve Champion with a lovely heifer. Well done to everyone who competed and in what was a great show of cattle. October came and our annual Society AGM, this year was a new one for me a Zoom meeting online. My thanks go to Anthony Davies for the last three years on Council representing the club and congratulations to Dafydd Jones on gaining his place on Council and I hope he enjoys the experience.

Reserve Champion Pistyll Kingsman

Female And Overall Champion Gwili Emma

On a sadder note as a club we have lost two past and founder members in Mr Gwynfor Richards and Mrs Caryl Davies, both influential in starting the club and our thoughts go out to both families. To end what has been a difficult year to say the least for everyone, I would like to thank all members for their support in a challenging first year as Chairman. Let’s hope for a return to some kind of normality in 2021. Stay safe all, Diolch yn fawr. Aled Davies Reserve Female And Reserve Overall Champion Hemingford Judy 182

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REGIONAL CLUB REPORTS

Welsh Simmental Club Virtual Show Results Class 1 Bull Born before 1st of January 2019 1ST Welston Harry - Mr. A. Davies 2ND Sacombe Jack – Daniels - Mr. M. Jones 3RD Shiloh Farm Royal – Mr. A. Davies Class 2 – Bull born on or between 1st of January 2019 to 31st of March 2019 1ST Eifed Kruger P – Mr. H. James

Class 1 Welston Harry

Class 2 Eifed Kruger

2ND Cwarre Kingpin – Mr. R. Cumming Class 3 – Bull Calf born on between 1st of April to 31st of July 2019 1ST Pistyll Kingsman - Mr. A. Francis 2ND Pistyll King kong - Mr. A. Francis Class 4 – Bull Calf born on or between 1st of August to 31st of December 2019 1ST Gwili Kallum -Mr. M. Beynon 2ND Hirwaun King of Hearts Mr. Aled. Davies 3RD Dyfed Karate Kid - Mr. M. Jones Class 5 – Bull calf born 2020

Class 3 Pistyll Kingsman

Class 4 Gwili Kallum

1ST Cwarre Longshot – Mr. R. Cumming 2ND Trefilan Llew – Mr. D. Scourfield 3RD Glanrafon Lleu – Mr. Williams Class 6 - Cow any age in calf or with calf at foot 1ST Gwili Emma Mr. M. Beynon 2ND Kilbride Farm Eunice 153D Mr. R. Cumming 3RD Crugmelyn Ferrero Mr. G. Lloyd Class 7 – Heifer born on or between 1st of January 2018 to 31st of August 2018 1ST Hemingford Judy Mr. H. James 2ND Crugmelyn Jelly Baby Mr. G. Lloyd

Class 5 Cwarre Longshot

Class 6 Gwili Emma

3RD Sacombe Jenna-Laube Mr. C. Croft Class 8 – Heifer born on or between 1st of September 2018 to 31st December 2018 1ST Mainview Kevin’s Girl Mr. Aled . Davies 2ND Cwarre Eunice’s Joy Mr. R. Cumming 3RD Cwarre Rosie’s Jazmin Mr. R. Cumming Class 9 – Heifer born on or between 1st of January 2019 to 31st of March 2019 1ST Goldcross Wonderboy Penny Mr. C. Waters 2ND Penwern KitKat Mr. W. Jenkins 3RD Crugmelyn Kelyn Mr. G. Lloyd

Class 7 Hemingford Judy

Class 8 Mainview Kevin’s Girl

Class 10 - Heifer born on or between 1st of April 2019 to 31st of July 2019 1ST Mwnt Magiann Mr. H. James 2ND Cwarre Hyacinth Knoutia Mr. R. Cumming 3RD Alreb Kizzie Mr. A. Evans Class 11 – Heifer calf born on or between 1st of August to 31st of December 2019 1ST Hirwaun Kitty Mr. Aled. Davies 2ND Cwarre Rosie’s Kerria Mr. R. Cumming 3RD Alreb Kimmie Mr. A. Evans Class 12 – Heifer calf born 2020

Class 9 Goldcross Wonderboy Penny

Class 10 Mwnt Maggiann

1ST Gwili Lady Victoria Mr. M. Beynon 2ND Cefngwlad Paprika Miss. A. Jones 3RD Penwern Lilian Mr. W. Jenkins Male Championship Champion – Welston Harry Mr. A. Davies Reserve Champion – Pistyll Kingsman Mr. A. Francis Female Championship Champion – Gwili Emma Mr. M. Beynon Reserve Champion - Hemingford Judy Mr. H. James Overall Championship

Class 11 Hirwaun Kitty

Class 12 Gwili Lady Victoria

Champion – Gwili Emma Mr. M. Beynon Reserve Champion - Hemingford Judy Mr. H. James

The Review 2020

183

CHATES

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G O L D CRO SS SI M M ENTALS “The Proof is in the Penny” The prize winning sister act Enquiries & visitors always welcome Cross Farm, Contact Chris Waters Goldcliff, Newport, Gwent, Tel: 07920842910 NP18 2AT

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ISAAC

Ear Tag: HB No: DOB:

Omorga Isaac 17 Sire: Curaheen Earp Dam: Omorga Destiny

UK963633007257 M093767 12.02.17

Exceptional Performance Index for Weight Gain and Eye Muscle Bred from a reliable cow family that consistently delivers Progeny display style and muscling Calv Ease Direct %

Calv Ease Dtrs %

Gest. Len. Days

NOVEMBER 2020 SIMMENTAL BREEDPLAN EBVs Birth Wt Kg

200 Day Wt Kg

EBV -2.8 -1.4 -0.2 +4.1 +43 Breed Average EBVs for 2018 Born Calves EBV

HANNIBAL

-0.7

-0.1

+0.0

+2.5

Shacon Hannibal 16 ET Sire: Kilbride Farm Delboy 12 Dam: Omorga Marcia ET

400 Day Wt Kg

600 Day Wt Kg

Mature Cow Wt Kg

200 Day Milk Kg

Scrotal Size cm

Carcase Wt Kg

Eye Mus Area cm2

Fat Depth mm

Retail Beef Yield %

IMF %

BCCS Terminal Index GBP

BCCS Self Replacing Index GBP

+81

+86

+83

+1.5

+61

+6.3

+0.6

+1.2

+0.3

+102

+117

+61

+66

+67

+0.6

+44

+3.8

-0.1

+0.8

-0.1

+74

+82

+33

Ear Tag: HB No: DOB:

UK965659800502 S003142 04.09.16

Sired by the renowned Kilbride Farm Delboy Stamps impressive style and quality into his progeny Used successfully in pedigree and commercial herds

Calv Ease Direct %

Calv Ease Dtrs %

Gest. Len. Days

NOVEMBER 2020 SIMMENTAL BREEDPLAN EBVs Birth Wt Kg

200 Day Wt Kg

EBV -5.1 -6.9 -0.2 +2.8 +35 Breed Average EBVs for 2018 Born Calves EBV

-0.7

-0.1

+0.0

+2.5

+33

400 Day Wt Kg

600 Day Wt Kg

Mature Cow Wt Kg

200 Day Milk Kg

Scrotal Size cm

Carcase Wt Kg

Eye Mus Area cm2

Fat Depth mm

Retail Beef Yield %

IMF %

BCCS Terminal Index GBP

BCCS Self Replacing Index GBP

+67

+78

+75

+0.9

+54

+5.7

-1.2

+2.5

-0.6

+91

+94

+61

+66

+67

+0.6

+44

+3.8

-0.1

+0.8

-0.1

+74

+82

AI Services (NI) Ltd, Ballycraigy, 671 Antrim Road, Newtownabbey, County Antrim BT36 4RL T: 028 9083 3123 E: info@ai-services.co.uk W: www.ai-services.co.uk

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The Review 2020

185

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The Review 2020

187

SIMMENTAL’S

DUAL-PURPOSE TRAITS PAYING DIVIDENDS AT BALLYSTRONE

Commercial feature on Allister Calvin, County Londonderry who is seeing the strengths of the Simmental breed in producing suckler replacements, and in bull beef finishing.

ounty Londonderry farmer Allister Calvin initially bought a Simmental bull to produce suckler replacements, but quickly realised that the breed’s dual-purpose traits also delivered satisfactory results in his bull beef finishing unit. “The Simmental is a good all-rounder, offering beneficial maternal and terminal traits,” said Allister who farms in partnership with his father William at Ballystrone on the outskirts of Coleraine. The father and son duo have been crossing Simmental on their Limousin and Belgian Blue cross-bred cows. “The Simmental cross is the ideal suckler cow with good conformation, sound legs and feet, a nice temperament, great mothering ability and plenty of milk. “Over the years we have boosted our profitability by selling surplus heifers as replacements to repeat customers. Heifers are sold at approximately thirteen-months-old at a price equivalent to that of a finished animal.” 188

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Our top performing bulls are ‘flying’ and can achieve 1.21 kilos of carcase gain per day, which is equivalent to 1.46 kilos daily liveweight gain from birth.”

Omorga Eli

In addition to farming 750 acres, which includes 500 acres of hill land and 25 acres of winter cereals, William and Allister also run an agricultural contracting business. “We’ve made a few changes to the structure of the farm. Suckler cow numbers have been reduced from 70 to 40, and in May 2020 we started milking 60 cows through a Lely A5 robot,” explained Allister. Suckler cows are calved in the spring and autumn. “Cows are calved at home and then moved to the hill. The cross-bred Simmental cows are hardy and can withstand outwintering in the hills. We like medium-sized cows that can hold condition easily. Longevity is another added benefit of the Simmental!”

Allister and William have been producing bull beef for Foyle Meats since 2002. Meticulous records confirm that the Simmental also has a lot to offer when it comes to beef production. “Our Simmental carcases are averaging 403 kilos deadweight and achieving U-2+ grades at around 15.2 months of age. That’s an average 0.88 kilo of carcase gain per day,” explained Allister. “Our top performing bulls are ‘flying’ and can achieve 1.21 kilos of carcase gain per day, which is equivalent to 1.46 kilos daily liveweight gain from birth.” He continued: ”Meat plants have introduced weight restrictions meaning heavy, lean carcases are penalised. We are under pressure to finish our bulls lighter, and it can be a big challenge to get enough fat cover on them at a younger age. The Simmental is ideal as it produces good fat cover at around 400 kilos.” Breedplan figures are an essential selection tool when it comes to selecting stock bulls for the farm’s suckler enterprise. Bulls are always bought on above average figures. Simmental bulls at Ballystrone have included the April 2011 Omorga Casper – a full brother to Omorga Volvo - bought privately from Harry and John Moore’s herd in Beragh, County Tyrone. “I like a muscly bull with good conformation and breed character,” added Allister who paid 8,500gns to secure Omorga Eli at Stirling in October 2014. Sired by Ashland Brandy and bred from a Cleenagh Flasher dam, the February 2013 bull is still working in the herd. Eli is ranked in the breed’s top 1% for eye muscle area +6.0, and top 5% for milk +10, terminal production index +101 and self-replacing index +112.

Historically the calves were creep fed, but that system has changed now that the suckler herd is predominantly grazed on the hill farm. Allister explained: “Most of the land grazed by the sucklers during the summer months is classified as environmentally sensitive and supplementary feeding is not allowed. This places even more emphasis on the cow to provide enough milk to rear a good calf. Our Simmental cows having plenty of milk and the calving weaning weights aren’t much behind those achieved when we were creep feeding.” Cattle are finished on a ration comprising of home-grown barley and a balanced blend. The autumn born bull calves are housed at the beginning of August in preparation for slaughter at Christmas. “We are aiming to achieve slaughter weights by sixteen-months of age. Simmental progeny are growthy and easily fleshed. Other continental breeds have the growth rates but they struggle to achieve the desired fat cover within the time limit.” Heifers selected as herd replacements are retained or sold privately to other suckler farmers. Everything else is finished for beef. Omorga Eli has been easily calved in the suckler herd, and with AI straws collected on-farm William and Allister are planning to use the semen on some of the Holstein cows. “We’re using sexed semen to breed dairy heifers, and we also have a batch of Holstein cows P’d in-calf to Eli, as we’d like to use the cross-bred dairy progeny for the bull beef finishing system. We finish around 140 dairy-bred calves annually, and ideally we’d like to breed our own to reduce the number of bought in animals.”

For almost twenty years Allister worked full-time as a beef and sheep adviser for the Department of Agriculture and Rural Enterprise in Northern Ireland. He recently gave up the role to return to the family farm.

…cross-bred Simmental cows are hardy and can withstand outwintering in the hills. We like mediumsized cows that can hold condition easily. Longevity is another added benefit of the Simmental!” The Review 2020

189

SLIEVENAGH SIMMENTALS

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T: 01555666760 M: 07786333475 E: keeldrumsimmentals@outlook.com The Review 2020

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SIMMENTAL: THE ‘MONEY MAKER’ BREED IN NEW ZEALAND Report on the growing popularity of Simmental cattle in New Zealand from the Simmental NZ President, Colleen Knauf

immental would be the third most popular beef breed in New Zealand behind Angus and Hereford and the number one European breed.

The number and make up of Simmental breeders have changed dramatically over the years that Simmental has been in New Zealand. From many small/hobby breeders there are now fewer breeders but with larger herds and on a more commercial basis. Growth would be the prime reason for producers looking to Simmental. Cattle reach target weights more quickly than traditional breeds. “Gone before the second winter” is an advertising slogan that Simmental NZ has coined. Hybrid vigour is also a factor in attaining the extra growth and weights. Simmental is mainly crossed over Angus and Hereford cattle to get extra growth from the Simmental and hybrid vigour. Docility is becoming a factor as Simmental NZ now have a docility EBV and have worked very hard in the last 10 years to improve a negative image of the temperament of Simmental. The strength of the breed in the past has been its terminal traits but it is becoming increasingly recognised as a maternal breed as well. Better constitution of the breed in New Zealand conditions has been a factor in this. There is even some use now of Simmental as a terminal sire for Dairy herds as they look to Dairy beef for profit and to find a better use for “bobby calves”. Bulls are specifically bred for

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easy calving and lower gestation to suit the dairy industry. The variety of colour has sometimes been a problem even though it is only ‘skin deep’! Traditional red and white dominate in popularity followed by a plainer red with a little white, blonde and a few black Simmentals. Simmental do well anywhere in New Zealand. They are found in the tropical north and right down to the chilly bottom of the South Island. Ultra sound scanning technology has found cattle to have thicker hides in colder climates and of course they develop thicker coats. Most sales are still for R2 bulls but there is a growing trend to sell yearling bulls as well. Average Prices for 2year old bulls would be approx. $5,000 $10,000. Top money about $20,000. Pedigree Female stock $1,200 as R1 to $3,500 for older females. Chinese buying has buoyed the female market in recent years. Commercial values are related to the meat schedules which have hovered around $5 kg for the last five years. Beef prices have been very good by New Zealand standards over the last few years. Like everything else, the outlook is somewhat uncertain with the effects of Coronavirus on markets. Simmental in New Zealand are enjoying a positive come back to cross breeding after a successful marketing effort by Angus in recent years.

THE HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION

and their progeny have to thrive in. In the past, it was generally thought that the European breeds such as Simmental were “softer” and required easier farming conditions than their traditional Angus and Hereford counterparts. However, there are more breeders challenging this conception and breeding Simmental cattle that can do well on hill country.

Pound for pound, Simmentals are unbeatable. 8.5% to 23.3% extra live weight gain at weaning. 10% extra live weight gain at finishing. 3% extra return on finished carcass weight.

Cows have to calve unassisted out on the farm and therefore calves have to be good at getting up and having feed straight after birth. Cows need to have good mothering ability.

BEAUTY IS IN THE EYE OF YOUR ACCOUNTANT

The Society currently has a contract with ABRI Australia to provide registration services and performance recording. Simmental NZ also works on contract with PBBNZ (Performance Beef Breeders NZ) which provides and combines services for the main breeds in New Zealand. All contracts and day to day running are provided by PBBNZ.

Here are an example of just some of the commercial straplines and selling points that that Simmental NZ are using to market and promote the breed in New Zealand

Beef + Lamb NZ Genetics progeny test results prove that a Simmental sire over your cow herd produces the heaviest progeny, and they’re getting some of the highest prices per kg.

HERE FOR A GOOD TIME, NOT A LONG TIME Reach optimum carcass weight before the second winter – less feed, less cost, less fuss. Nothing finishes faster than a Simmental.

COOL, CALM AND MONEY COLLECTED Simmental were the first breed to produce an EBV for docility to allow breeders to actively select for quiet temperament. The misconception that Simmentals are temperamental has been laid to rest. They just get the job done, no drama. The majority of stock in New Zealand are fed grass only, outside in all weathers. Supplements may be some hay or silage. Most New Zealand Simmental tend to be a little smaller and more athletic than their British counterparts because of the environment that they

Simmental NZ are currently working on getting EBVs (Estimated Breeding Values) to include genomic evaluations. Sires have to be DNA profiled to verify parentage. Breeders are encouraged to take advantage of the increasing genetic information available. For example, whether stock is horned or polled. Important because of increasing animal welfare restrictions on dehorning. Another example is the colour issue. Genomic testing is available to identify the dilution gene which will give grey coat colour over black cows – can be important for farmers crossing Simmental over Angus and Angus cross cattle. For the last five years, Simmental NZ has been financially involved in supporting a Beef Progeny Test evaluating EBV’s. It has been a worthwhile investment as Simmental has done well in most areas. There are just over 4,000 cows registered at present with Simmental NZ. More information and stories of New Zealand Simmental can be found on www.simmental.co.nz

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SIMMENTAL ‘THE BREED FOR PROFIT’ IN IRELAND Being our closest neighbouring herdbook, and with a good degree of genetic connectivity, we are delighted to include an article from the Irish Simmental Cattle Society. Here the Society’s COM, Peadar Glennon gives an overview of the National herd, and where the Simmental breed fits in, and outlines the breed’s ongoing progress in genetic trends over a ten-year-period.

Simmental in Ireland Firstly, congratulations to the UK Simmental Society on reaching its 50th Anniversary. Being the custodian of the herdbook is a vital role and one which should never be underestimated. In Ireland, we are running a year behind as the first Simmental were imported in 1971. When the current restrictions pass, we will have to plan later this year as to how best we will mark our 50th milestone with events.

Breed Strategy

Peadar Glennon

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In 2000 the then Council of the Irish Simmental Society developed a clear Breed Strategy focused on developing further the beefing characteristics of the breed, the clear purpose being to position Simmental competitively with other continental breeds. This coupled with maintaining the superior maternal advantages of the breed ensured a market and identity for Simmental cattle.

The National Herd The makeup of the National Herd has seen a seismic shift to dairying since the abolition of the milk quotas in 2015. (See table below) This has greatly increased the challenges facing beef breeds as both markets are opposites in terms of stockbull requirements. Year

Dairy Cows

2010

1,056,266

Change

Beef Cows

Change

2011

1,102,383

46,117

985,604

11,589

2012

1,127,694

25,311

1,028,823

43,219

2013

1,148,374

20,680

1,034,132

5,309

2014

1,186,898

38,524

987,087

47,045

2015

1,275,559

88,661

979,441

7,646

2016

1,359,597

84,038

981,035

1,594

997,193

2017

1,397,960

38,363

970,542

10,493

2018

1,442,290

44,330

942,891

27,651

2019

1,488,786

46,496

916,391

26,500

Simmental in the Commercial Herd Simmental sired calves in the National herd has remained consistent over the past 10 years at 7% while 11% of the cow type is Simmental. In terms of system profitability, young bulls are consistently leaving the highest margins and Simmental are recorded as one of the highest performers in this section. The table below taken from results from performance recording of young bulls at Tully Test Station highlights this performance. Sire Breed

Pre-Trial ADG

On-Trial ADG

TOTAL_ADG

Carcass Weight DG

Feed Efficiency

Terminal Index

0.99

1.51

1.07

0.63

9.44

73.65

0.96

1.32

1.01

0.61

10.57

89.53

0.91

1.36

0.98

0.60

9.90

88.75

0.93

1.21

0.97

0.59

13.07

91.99

A.I. Usage in the Suckler Herd On average there are 10% of the Suckler cows served to A.I. annually and Simmental accounts for 7% of this market. See table below for the most used Simmental bulls in 2019. Most Popular A.I. Sires in the Suckler Herd Rank

Name

Calves

Owner

SI2469

LISNACRANN FIFTY CENT

2830

NCBC

SI2152

CURAHEEN EARP

1904

NCBC

SI4147

CURAHEEN GUNSHOT P

916

Dovea

SI4083

CLONAGH FROSTY KING ET

655

NCBC

QCD

CLOONDROON CALLING

645

Dovea

The Pedigree Herd The following is a snapshot of the Pedigree Simmental Herd in terms of numbers: • • • • •

2300 Pedigree calves registered in 2019 Ranking 5th in terms of Breed Registrations 65% of Pedigree calves born in 2019 were sired by an A.I. Sire 32% of 2019 Pedigree Registered calves where sired by the 10 most popular A.I. Sires down from 37% in 2018 5% of Pedigree calves born in 2019 were ET calves The Review 2020

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Simmental Sales The Society Sales are centred around our Premier Sales which take place at Roscommon each March & October. The sales have developed on the concept that the best animals are routinely put forward for sale. As recently as last October, our Roscommon Sale recorded a new interbreed record price when the Behan’s Clonagh Lucky Explorer was knocked down at €52,000. Best of luck to the Wood Family, Lancashire with their purchase and I’m sure in years to come we will see this bull put his stamp on the Simmental breed.

Online Sales The restrictions imposed because of the Coronavirus has resulted in Livestock Marts putting in place an on-line facility for selling. In fact, our Premier sale last October was 100% on-line and worked well with very high averages and clearance rates recorded. In future it is expected that all sales will incorporate a blend of ringside and on-line activity. This will allow potential customers far greater freedom in terms of pre-sale livestock viewing and following day sale activity. Raceview King

Exports Ireland has over the past number of years, following the breed strategy put in place in 2000, emerged as a key source for Simmental breeding stock throughout Europe where the focus is on beef production. This market is twofold and encompasses live exports as well as frozen semen and embryos. The quality and easy fleshing ability of the Irish Simmental are key elements in the establishment of these markets. The last four years has seen a lot of activity in the Turkish market for semen and Pedigree Bulls to Italy for follow-on semen sales to both Turkey and China. These markets are looking for superior beefing qualities and distinctive colour markings.

Ireland / UK Collaboration Hillcrest Champion

Down through the years there has always been a strong cooperation between both Societies and breeders with the common goal being the betterment and advancement of the breed aided by the sharing of bloodlines. Some cows that certainly left a positive impact on our breed include Star Fanny & Anatrim Kay while Camus Solitaire moving in the other direction will forever be remembered. When reflecting on bulls who have left their imprint on both herdbooks, the names of Richardstown Jumbo, Hillcrest Champion, Raceview King, Sacombe Wishful Thinking, Carnkern Titan & Rosten Barney spring to mind as such. In recent years we have seen animals exported in each direction having had a massive impact on the Show circuit with Auroch Eve & Banwy T-Rex two deserving special mention.

Star Fanny

Simmental Stockpeople It was stockpeople with vision and a desire to succeed that painstakingly researched and sourced new genetics to take our great breed to where it is today. Recent agricultural policy encompassing a greater emphasis on evaluations, where it is envisaged that a mobile phone can decide mating decisions is worrying and must be resisted where necessary. Evaluations are welcomed but only as another tool to assist in breeding decisions. Stockpeople will hopefully always play a key role in searching for and breeding the next generation of Simmental Cattle to benefit all Simmental enthusiasts.

Central Database Camus Solitare

The Irish Simmental Society signed up to the concept of a central all breed database, from which our evaluation system is ran, in 2002. In theory this should deliver near perfect evaluations, which is correct for certain traits, but other traits should be within breed.

Genomics In 2012 the Irish Simmental Society, together with all other breeds, made the decision to move to SNP DNA testing to pave the way for the issuing of Genomic evaluations. After four years of building up a training population which included the testing of all A.I. bulls past & present, the first Genomic evaluations were launched. One of the main advantages of the SNP system is its ability to predict parentage when ran against the DNA database. Also, of interest is the ability to carry out other add on tests such as Polledness at point of testing. 196

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Performance Recording Breed

Samples

Start Age

Slaughter Age

Initial Weight

Final Live Weight

Carcass Weight

Avg Grade

210

375

480

499.8

703.8

404.20

SI CH

166

378

486

482.9

684.1

415.97

U+

266

380

486

495.8

694.9

411.90

506

383

489

474.3

667.8

396.51

Count

Start Age

Slaughter Age

Initial Weight

Final Live Weight

Carcass Weight

Avg Grade

112

486

583

520.2

660.3

361.82

126

534

631

549.9

670.2

377.89

R+

204

537

632

527.9

649.8

370.14

R+

566

664

564.1

673.5

387.89

U-

Sire Breed

Genetic Trends The Simmental breed has seen steady increases in Genetic Trends since the establishment of ICBF. The graph below illustrates the increases in the Replacement index for Simmental compared to other breeds between 2007 & 2018.

Fleckvieh In 2015 coinciding with the increase in dairying, we saw a renewed interest in Fleckvieh cows with farmers looking for cows with improved milk solids and fertility. This increased interest resulted in many farmers switching to Fleckvieh with both the number of cattle imported and A.I. usage increasing year on year. To cater for registering these Fleckvieh animals, the Irish Simmental Cattle Society established a separate herdbook section and registration numbers are increasing yearly with a lot of potential for additional growth. Finally, congratulations again to the UK Society and all its members and looking forward with excitement to what lies ahead. Over the years many strong and valuable friendships have been created between members of both Societies. This cooperation and friendship has resulted in the subsequent breeding of many high profiled animals which have left an everlasting stamp on the Simmental breed. Long may this continue as we all strive to help in the breeding of the next superstar!

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AMERICAN SIMMENTAL MAKING A SIGNIFICANT GENETIC CONTRIBUTION TO THE US BEEF INDUSTRY Giving a report on the work of the American Simmental Association (ASA), and the Simmental breed in the USA, we are delighted to have Fred Schuetze, ASA Trustee and President of the World Simmental Fleckvieh Federation, as a contributor in this year’s Review.

irst, I would like to congratulate the British Simmental Society, for reaching the 50th year milestone of servicing the Simmental breed and its breeders. It is an accomplishment only reached by a few and you and your breeder members must be proud. The American Simmental Association (ASA) reached this goal in 2018 and its success is directly related to the acceptance of Simmental and their crosses by the commercial industry in the US. Our history, as with most continental breeds, started when the commercial industry was struggling with

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cattle that had very little growth and the cost of production was becoming too extreme to maintain. Everyone was looking for the ‘silver bullet’ to save the industry from the ‘belt buckle cattle’, as they were called. The success of the American Simmental Association has to be credited to the founding fathers, which is true for all Societies that have survived. Each, has to determine what the Society’s role is to make the cattle sustainable, which in turn makes their membership successful.

Fred Schuetze

In the 1950’s, performance testing was taking hold of the beef cattle industry but it was not till 1968 that the Beef Improvement Federation was formed to set the standards for this new form of producing livestock in the US versus the show ring for selection. Even though the first Simmentals were imported to the US in 1886 & 1887; the importation of Parisien in 1966 making semen available to the US, opened the doors for performance minded breeders to start the use of Simmental genetics in the US. This was done through artificial insemination of all breeds to produce the first ½ bloods which increased weaning weights by over 100 pounds and the race was on, with the formation of the ASA, based on performance testing, as dictated by the founding fathers. The ASA has taken a different approach, compared to many other associations, as to how they effectively have developed programs to meet the needs of the beef industry in the US. Along with maintaining pedigree and performance data for the membership, there has been the development of the first genetic evaluation that incorporated other breeds to the current single step system that uses DNA to help increase accuracies. The thought of cooperation with other breeds has led to the world’s largest beef data base of over 16,000,000 records. The IGS (International Genetic Solutions) system has allowed a collaboration of records and breeds that have increased the accuracies of the total genetic evaluation for a vast majority of the beef cattle industry not only in the US but with records from Canada and Australia. The ultimate goal is to better serve both the purebred and the commercial industry around the world, which is our final customers in the purebred business besides the end user the consuming public. The ASA has 7,322 active membership, of which 4,536 are adult members and 2,786 are junior members. The 7,322 have registered 71,981 during the year ending June 30, 2020. As of August 2020; the ASA database is comprised of just under 6 million animals making up 37.5% of the total IGS data base. The ASA registers animals with varying genetic bases that includes Fullbloods that have a straight Simmental pedigree; Purebreds that are 7/8’s Simmental; SimAngus that can range from ¼ Simmental to ¾ Simmental; and Simbrah from the Purebreds that are 5/8 Simmental, 3/8 Brahman along with the percentages of

MONTE CARLO 071114 (002)

¾ Simmental, ¼ Brahman, Simmental ½ Brahman and vise versa, to SimAngus HT’s that carry a percentage of Brahman for heat tolerance.

The popularity of the Simmental breed, across the commercial industry which drives the pedigree industry, is because of the genetic trends and the ability of the association to put programs in place that affect the bottom line of the producers.” The Simmental breed, depending on who you ask, ranks 3rd in the overall population in beef cattle in the US and is by far the largest of all the continental breeds that were imported in the late 1960’s. The popularity of the Simmental breed, across the commercial industry which drives the pedigree industry, is because of the genetic trends and the ability of the association to put programs in place that affect the bottom line of the producers. Programs such as: the collaboration with other breed associations in IGS which produces multibreed genetic evaluations, the only one to do so; The Review 2020

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carcass merit programs to enhance carcass quality; a commitment of $700,000.00 (approx £516,000) over a 5 year period to expand carcass data; the ability to register and track percentage Simmental cattle; a tremendous junior program, 2786 members strong which not only focuses on the show ring but on leadership development and genetic evaluation; total herd reporting that produces 75% to 80% of all the data with meaningful contemporary grouping, and finally a board of trustees and staff that work tirelessly on keeping SIMMENTAL in the drivers seat. Another great asset is the ability to do 100% of the breeders’ work online with the most advanced computer program in the industry. The last strength of Simmental in the US, as well as around the world, is there ability to adapt to different climatic conditions and management practices. As I stated earlier, the success of a breed is due to its acceptability in the commercial industry and this is accomplished by producing cattle that meet the needs of the commercial industry. The success of the Simmental breed in the US can be directly attributed to the two graphs that I have attached: MATERNAL TRAIT GENETIC TRENDS and TERMINAL TRAIT GENETIC TRENDS. I believe the graphs are, self- explanatory, as to why the Simmental breed is so successful in the US along with other countries involved in IGS, which is just a DBA for the American Simmental Association. In general the graphs show that within the Simmental gene pool there is both maternal and terminal genetics and these have been blended so that both are available in one breed.

Typical Fleckvieh Simmental Sire

Typical purebred Simmental cow

Typical Simbrah cow 5 8 Simmental 3 8 Brahman

and $1.05 per pond for heifers weighting 600 pounds. Fat cattle ready for harvest are selling for $1.05 per pound with variation from area to area. Simmental bulls for the commercial industry are averaging about $5,000.00 (£3,700) per head and stud bulls range from $10,000.00 (£7,400) to $100,000.00 (£73,700) per head. In summary, I would have to say that Simmental are in a terrific position in the US; demand by the commercial industry is high and growing and as this trend continues so will the seedstock industry.

The beef industry, due to the Covid situation, is currently in one of the lowest points seen in many years. Fat cattle are selling around $1.05 per pound; with weaners selling at $1.25 per pound for steers 200

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In closing, as president of the World Simmental Fleckvieh Federation and current trustee for the American Simmental Association, I congratulate the British Simmental Society on reaching the 50th anniversary of existence and wish you much success in the future along with thanks for inviting me to author this article for your society.

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SNAPSHOT PROFILE OF

DANSK SIMMENTAL AND THE BREED IN DENMARK Thank you very much to Simmental breeder, and Dansk Simmental Board Member, Henning Hansen who has kindly supplied the following overview of the breed and Society in Denmark. Henning is a well-known breeder to British Simmental visitors to Denmark and earlier this year also acted as a judge for one of the BSCS’s Virtual Show classes.

n Denmark we have just about 3500 pedigree Simmental cows. This makes Simmental the second beef breed in the country closely followed by Hereford, and quite a bit behind the largest breed which is Limousine with about 7500 cows. Simmental is very popular for crossbreeding, so if we count the cows with minimum 50 % Simmental blood, we are about 7500. The pedigree cows are spread in about 900 herds, meaning an average number of cows as small as 3.9 per herd. In many herds you would see a few pedigree animals and the rest would be crossbred. The total number of suckler cows in Denmark is close to 90,000, averaging to just about 15 cows per herd. There are very few farms where sucklers would be the main income. This is due to the fact that most of our country is arable land, and grass land is only existing 202

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in small spots. In full time farming, the sucklers would normally be second or third, to milk or pork production, or to arable crops. A big part of our sucklers stand in part-time, or hobby farms, where the main income is brought home from outside jobs. That is why many of our breeders are known as the dentist, the baker, the vicar etc. This structure, which I believe is unlike most other countries, also has a large impact on the strategy for breeding and keeping cattle. AI is very popular in Denmark, and more than half of the Simmental calves born are results of AI. We have a long tradition for using AI on dairy cattle and when the beef breeds arrived to Denmark in the 1960 -70 years, most of them were settled in with people who were used to the AI concept. So it was an easy way to go and it actually made a

lot of sense as, in our small herds, the costs of buying and keeping a high quality bull will exceed the value he adds to the herd. Using AI gives access for everybody to use national and international top genetics. A slogan for one of our AI cooperatives was: “The best bulls you find in the deep freeze”!

This low price, which we have had for too long now, combined with the fact that average age of beef farmers is quite high, will probably cause a major decrease in the number of suckler cows over the next few years. For many of us it’s a hobby, but even beloved hobbies can become too expensive.

Fifty years ago we had numerous of these cattle breeding associations, but now they have all merged into one members owned company covering the whole country: VikingDenmark. Together with similar organisations in Sweden and Finland, VikingDenmark owns and runs VikingGenetics. The task of VikingGenetics is general development of everything related to reproduction, and to select bulls and produce semen doses. VikingDenmark takes care of the practical AI service and the close contact of the customers – who are also the owners. Denmark is a small country, so the distances between our 200 AI technicians are not long. Traditionally the Viking system and the Beef breeding societies have been able to cooperate in a very good way. This means that the selection of AI bulls for pure breeding is handled by the respective breeding society.

The Danish Simmental Society – Dansk Simmental - already registers the decreasing number of breeders, as our members list now holds only 170 names. When it peaked, we came close to 400. The problem is not only that people grow older – we expected that - but after the worldwide financial crisis it has been very difficult for young people to finance the purchase of a small farm and establish their own herds. I do believe that if that were easier, we would still have enough new members coming in to replace the elderly going out.

As a result of this structure we produce a lot more good bull calves than we need for reproduction, and therefore the price for young bulls is probably the lowest in Europe. We do not have auction sales of breeding cattle at all, with everything being sold directly from farm to farm. Unfortunately we also have low prices when it comes to selling our beef. A year ago there was a positive trend in prices, so we thought they would rise to a decent level. But then came Covid 19 and stopped all the celebrations and parties where you would normally serve a good beef roast, and restaurants, where a lot of beef steaks would normally have been consumed, were closed down. Actual carcass price medio November is £2,89 for top quality young bull or heifer and £2,65 for top quality cow. Almost all animals for slaughter are paid for according to weight and EUROP classification of carcass. The prices I mention here are for best weight group and carcass class 12.

One of our Society’s main tasks has always been to make sure that there is sufficient high-quality semen available to our members. To take care of that we have a four-person committee, which keeps an eye on figures and animals and come up with suggestions to the main board of the Society, as to which bull to take for AI or which semen to import. As a Society we act with quite a conservative attitude and take in only well proven genetics. Our philosophy is to not gamble with other people’s (our members’ ) money. Until a few years ago our performance test station was the key thing in the selection of new bulls. But the running of this became too expensive, so now we look at the figures of working herd bulls. When we find one with good figures, we go out and look at the bull and progeny. This means that nowadays we actually select one proven bull for AI instead of five or six young bulls for test inseminations.

Temperament, easy calving, polled, growth, and carcase classification – the most important traits for Danish Simmental breeders..”

2018 - British Simmental Breeders on tour in Denmark The Review 2020

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The things we look for in our next AI bulls are easy calving, growth, good legs and feet and good carcass classification. When we ask our breeders what they find most important, we mostly hear – and mostly in this ranking: Temperament, easy calving, polled, good growth, and good classification of carcass. Only very few talk about leg quality, but I take it that good legs is seen as a presumption. One thing that is often discussed among breeders is the size of our animals. When we have foreign guests coming to buy animals, they often say that our animals are too big – and then they buy the biggest one they can find. Showing is to many of our members a big part of having Simmentals. We have quite a few local shows, but the most interesting one is absolutely The National Show in Herning at the beginning of July. Here we have normally 60-70 animals in the ring, and in special years we have had more than 100. In any case it is worth a visit, when and if the world comes back to normal! I would like to offer my best congratulations on your Society’s anniversary in 2020! In Denmark we highly respect the way you have developed the breed since your first imports, and some of your breeding has had a large and persistent impact on ours. I hope you will be able to celebrate in a proper way in 2021, and if the world is free – and the borders are still open for EU citizens - I hope to join your celebrations with a contingent of Danish breeders.

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SIMMENTAL THE

‘CONTINENTAL BREED OF CHOICE’ IN CANADA A commitment to genetic improvement and a focus on Calving ease, carcass traits and fertility, has seen Simmental become the continental breed of choice in Canada. Here Bruce Holmquist, the Canadian Simmental Association’s General manager, and a past President of the World Simmental Fleckvieh federation, gives us a terrific overview of the breed’s challenges and development to the present day.

t is an honour to have been asked to contribute my thoughts on the Simmental breed as part of this publication which marks the milestone of 50 years of Simmental in the United Kingdom, and the formation of the British Simmental Cattle Society. I was fortunate to visit the United Kingdom in 2008 as part of the World Simmental Fleckvieh Federation (WSFF) Congress that toured England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Great hospitality was enjoyed throughout the event and it was especially memorable for me as that was the year I began my four year term as President of the WSFF. Great times in a world that was much different than we are unfortunately experiencing today. It would be great if Simmental breeders in the United Kingdom would consider hosting the WSFF Congress again at some point in time.

Bruce Holmquist

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When contacted to do this article it was suggested that I provide an overview of Simmental in Canada and where it currently sits in its development and position within the Canadian beef industry. In order to better understand the status of Simmental in Canada, we need to revisit where Simmental has come from and recognize both the challenges we faced over the last 53 years, as well as our current success. To do that properly we need to go back to 1967 when SBL Parisien 1A was imported

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Parisien

to Canada, becoming the first Simmental bull to set foot on the North American continent. From that moment on it was apparent the Simmental breed was destined to change and improve the beef industry in North America. The “belt buckle” tall cattle of the 1960’s were in desperate need of change and the timing was right for the infusion of Simmental genetics. Although not fully understood at the time – heterosis manifested itself as the only thing that is truly free in beef production. Increased performance combined with superior maternal traits was thought to be an impossible combination, however Simmental was able to provide both. Later Canadian Simmental breeders became victim to the mindset that if something is good, then more of it must be even better. For some breeders, performance became a fixation and with that we saw a remarkable increase in mature frame size along with higher maintenance requirements. Many breeds of cattle went through a ‘bigger is better’ phase, especially in frame, and Simmental was no exception. Through the 1980’s many of the Simmental cattle in North America were of a type that had questionable economic value for the beef industry. Simmental breeders in both Canada and the USA countries had joined others in the purebred industry in producing cattle that fit a model of refinement and extremes that the show-ring favored. This left commercial cattle producers scratching their heads about the direction that the purebred sector had headed and Simmental ended up on the feedlots “do not buy list”. Things had to change, and that they did! The road back to practicality was not a successful path for all breeds in North America and there was a reshuffling of the ranking of popularity amongst them. Some breeds that had enjoyed initial 208

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success after their importation during the “exotic boom” were pushed aside by breeds that changed more quickly and adapted to the North American beef industries evolving needs. Optimum performance became the goal replacing maximum gain; extreme frame was moderated and soundness of feet and legs along with overall structure was dramatically improved. Not surprisingly we also discovered that consumers expected a quality eating experience and on many occasions were disappointed with beef that was too lean. Carcass quality and tenderness traits became extremely important and the Simmental breed was among the breeds that lead the way in improving those qualities.

Calving ease, carcass traits and fertility in a balanced performance package became the focus and Simmental has since grown in popularity to where we have become the continental breed of choice...” How did Simmental make those changes quicker than some other breeds? It began with the recognition of the need for change. As a breed we were very fortunate that there were breeders that had not followed the path that many chose and quietly kept doing what they believed in; producing the type of cattle that made them money and were sought after by their commercial customers. The cattle they produced became the genetics that put us back on track. The American and Canadian Simmental Associations also had boards of directors that focused on the implementation of programming and data collection programs which provided the data base for

development of the genetic improvement tools for their members to use, and then worked diligently in promoting and educating those members on their use. Calving ease, carcass traits and fertility in a balanced performance package became the focus and Simmental has since grown in popularity to where we have become the continental breed of choice and is solidly number the number two breed in Canada based on registrations behind Angus. The elimination of the diluter gene through genetic selection also played an important role in making Simmental more acceptable in Angus commercial herds.

Some figures pertaining to the Canadian Simmental Association:

A large part of the success and growth of Simmental in Canada can be attributed to the breeders and the CSA understanding that the Association must serve its membership and more importantly their customers in a practical and efficient manner. This has been accomplished by remaining committed to genetic improvement for the beef industry, combined with breed promotion, along with a strong focus on youth development. We invite you to learn more about Simmental in Canada by viewing our magazine online at www. simmentalcountry.com, and CSA programming through our website www.simmental.com Congratulations to the British Simmental Cattle Society on your 50th Anniversary and wishing you much success as you continue to work towards the expansion and improvement of the Simmental breed around the world!

• Simmental is the second most popular beef breed in Canada registering approximately 23,000 animals each year from a cowherd of approximately 40,000 Simmental females • Simmental is very complimentary to both Angus and Hereford cattle in cross-breeding programs which has driven much of the Simmental breed’s success • There are 1880 active members of the Canadian Simmental Association which includes 350 Junior members in our Young Canadian Simmental program aged 6-25 years old • The CSA registry system incorporates phenotypes, pedigree and performance data along with genomic data into genomically enhanced EPDs as part of our relationship with International Genetic Solutions (IGS) https://www. internationalgeneticsolutions.com/ • The CSA and American Simmental Association work together on a combined North American genetic evaluation. • The CSA registry system is comprised of Fullblood, Purebred and Percentage animals. At the present time our registrations are approximately 71% Purebred (red and black), 20% Fullblood (traditional), and 9% Percentage (3/4 Simmental blood or less)

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ADVERTORIAL

Simmental Cattle Deserve Stockman’s Choice Jill Hunter – Harbro Beef & Sheep Nutritionist

immental cattle breeders are well known for their expert stockmanship and ability to turn out exceptional stock for both shows and sales.

Greencap Kane

As an industry, we have a responsibility to ensure breeding animals are well managed and supported nutritionally to produce animals fit for purpose and able to pass genetics into both pedigree and commercial herds. At Harbro, we believe we also have a responsibility to play our part in efficient and sustainable livestock production. This includes pedigree cattle, across all breeds. We believe there are four factors, which should be considered when deciding what to feed your animals: 1.

Health. If animals aren’t healthy, we cannot expect them to perform and maximise their genetic potential 2. Immunity. Without a robust immune system, animals cannot fight infection or repair damaged tissues 3. Fertility. Arguably the most important factor. Both male and females must be fed in a way to ensure the breed is known for being fertile and prolific. Also important to ensure herds are profitable 4. Longevity. Rearing replacements is costly, therefore animals on your home farm or sold to other producers need to live a full life and be allowed to pass on their genetics We recently launched Stockman’s Choice, which is our new and exciting range of pedigree cattle feeds, designed to enhance the four factors listed above. It has been developed by combining years of dedication and experience in the pedigree world with the latest technologies and innovations. We also consulted with our nutritional partners, including Glasgow Vet School to ensure a holistic view was taken across the range of feed and to make sure our advice is relevant. The pedigree team at Harbro is highly experienced and we work closely with customers across the UK to ensure practical and nutritional advice helps customers to meet their goals. What makes Stockman’s Choice different? Stockman’s Choice has been formulated using a carefully selected range of sustainably sourced, quality raw materials with key additives included to promote feed efficiency, health and performance. Rumitech is a Carbon Trust assured additive which increases feed conversion ratio whilst increasing lean tissue growth in comparison to fat, including less scrotal fat. A trial carried out with young bulls fed Rumitech, showed an increase in eye muscle area, while reducing fat depth by 12%. With a keen focus on health and immunity, we chose to include Rumi Defence, an exciting new additive which has antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties. It enhances immunity and improves the function of vital organs such as the liver, which is undoubtedly under pressure with the levels of performance expected of these animals. A recent on-farm trial showed cattle fed Rumi Defence gained an 210

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additional 320g/head/day in the last 20 days of the finishing period. This has the potential to seriously crank up the dial on pedigree stock performance, when you’re looking for additional performance and condition, ahead of shows and sales. Maxammon inclusion means the pH and protein level of the cereal have been increased, allowing higher cereal inclusion more safely and reducing the requirement for additional protein supplementation. With a number of top producers now feeding Stockman’s Choice, we believe we have the ideal feeding regime to complement the world leading Simmental Cattle herds throughout the UK. Colin Inglis runs a 25 cow herd at Aberdour and moved onto the Stockman’s Choice range in the summer of 2020, feeding the concentrate blend and then the crunch on the run up to the October sales. Colin remarked that he was very happy with how the bulls had transitioned on to the feed and that it gave them a great shine and good coverage ahead of sale day. 18 month old Greencap Kane made 9,000gns at the Stirling Bull Sales. In addition to the Stockman’s Choice range for show and sale animals, we also have a range of commercial feeds and supplements to support your main herd. Suckler cows are the foundation of your business and its worthwhile investing in them to ensure you have as many live and vigorous calves born, with as few issues as possible. Here’s wishing Simmental breeders all the very best for 2021. We hope to see you at shows and sales very soon.

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FOR PRODUCTIVIT Y & PROFITABILIT Y

FLECKVIEH ‘THE DAIRY VERSION OF THE SIMMENTAL’ GIVING MILK PRODUCERS ALL-ROUND PRODUCTIVITY & PROFITABILITY REGISTER YOUR PEDIGREE FLECKVIEH CATTLE The BSCS is growing and developing a stand-alone pedigree Fleckvieh herdbook, with DEFRA’s approval, within which you can register pedigree Fleckviehs and grade up to pedigree Fleckvieh status. The Fleckvieh herdbook has the full administrative support of the BSCS staff, and pedigree cattle can be registered by post, telephone, and email. All pedigree Fleckvieh cattle are held on the Society’s ABRI Breedplan supported database. At present there are approximately 3000 pedigree Fleckviehs held within the database with this number starting to grow as interest in the breed from dairy farmers around the UK is rapidly developing. Fleckvieh pedigree breeders are already represented within the BSCS Council of Management and as Fleckvieh numbers develop, the aim will be to develop a standalone breeder’s group with responsibility for administration, breed promotion and technical development.

In joining the BSCS to register your pedigree Fleckvieh cattle, and as membership of the Fleckvieh breeders group continues to grow, the all-round benefits are aimed to include: • Obtaining the added value that a pedigree registration gives you • Organisation of pedigree Fleckvieh sales around the UK • Promotion of the Fleckvieh breed • Introduction of a classification system and milk recording • Having your animals registered on a secure, online herdbook database • Being supported by a first-class administration team • Being part of a group of like-minded breeders

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ABOUT FLECKVIEH CATTLE Fleckvieh cattle originated in central Europe as far back as the 1800s when local indigenous stock were cross-bred with Simmental cattle from Switzerland. The aim was to produce a breed with excellent muscling and good milk production. Today, the dual purpose Fleckvieh is suitable for both meat and milk production and is firmly established on all continents.

TREMENDOUS FLECKVIEH PRODUCTION TRAITS Described as a dairy version of the Simmental breed, Fleckvieh cows stand out for fertility, easy calving, and longevity. Milk production is increased from one lactation to the next, giving young cows sufficient time to grow and increase capacity whilst developing into strong and productive dairy cows. The long productive life of Fleckvieh cows guarantees low costs for herd replacement. Fleckviehs provide solidness and longevity. They are strong animals with good legs, feet and udders, high milk solids without the yield compromise, and excellent fertility with robust, commercial calves.

HIGH YIELDS, FERTILITY, & INCREASED LACTATIONS Proving to be an increasingly popular dairy breed in the UK, the Fleckvieh has proven its ability to reach high levels of milk and solids production. The Fleckvieh has been shown to have an average production of approximately 6850 litres with protein at 3.43%, and butterfat at 4.13%. Fertility is also a very strong breed attribute. The calving interval is generally at 380 days, and Fleckvieh females calve easily. A typical cull cow would be around 400 kgs dead weight. The increased number of lactations giving high lifetime productivity.

HEALTHY CATTLE & HIGHLY EFFICIENT Fleckvieh herd health is typically very good. Fleckviehs are a docile breed, that are easily managed, and calve easily. Fleckviehs do well from grass and improved feed efficiency cuts the cost of milk production.

MARKET FOR COMMERCIAL STEERS Fleckvieh steers finishing at 17-18 months old at 550-600kg liveweight and killing out at around 300kg deadweight as R3s and 0+3s. Fleckvieh cattle are increasingly quoted in livestock market reports.

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AuctionFinder.co.uk

SECOND SET OF FLECKVIEH TRIPLETS BORN WITHIN TWELVE MONTHS FOR JAY AND ZAK JOHNSTON!

DAVID HAZELTON – ‘FLECKVIEH PIONEER’

Pictured are Jay and Zak Johnston, Newtonbutler, Co Fermanagh, looking extremely pleased with their set of Fleckvieh triplets born in August 2020! The triplets are purebred and are out of a Fleckvieh cow the boy’s father, David, imported from Germany as a calf. The sire is the polled Fleckvieh bull Mahango from Bayern Genetik. Despite the statistical odds of cows having triplets as being over 100,000 to one, this is remarkably the second set of Fleckvieh triplets the Johnstons have had this year!

David Hazelton was honoured with the title Fleckvieh Pioneer in 2019. David owns Ranfurly Simmentals farm in NI and has brought Fleckvieh genetics to Ireland, Northern England, and Scotland. With this award and a traditional Bavarian cow bell, we want to thank David for exceptional performance in the field of Fleckvieh breeding, his great passion for Fleckvieh and its implementation in the UK.

Black and white changes to brown and white. Fleckvieh mixing in colour at the herd of the Moore family from Pomeroy Road, Dungannon. The Review 2020

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FLECKVIEHS PROVIDING

ALL-ROUND SOLUTIONS

FOR THE VANSTONE FAMILY Matthew, Helen, and Alistair Vanstone of Taylorsdown Farm, Winkleigh, Devon are finding the Fleckvieh to be a high performing dairy breed with longevity, top fertility, increased lactations, no compromise in yield, and leaving a robust commercial calf.

listair Vanstone and his wife Helen have tried several breeds since they took over the 40ha family farm in 1992 – and they have now settled on a clear winner: The Fleckvieh.

Having taken on 50 pedigree British Friesians with the farm, they built the herd up to 110 milking cows by 2001, but devastatingly lost them all to pre-emptive culling during the Foot and Mouth outbreak. In late 2001 they decided to bring the farm back to life and purchased 150 pedigree Holstein bulling heifers, inseminating them with unsexed pedigree Holstein semen from Canadian bloodlines. But the suitability of the Holstein breed was soon in question, with the viability of the bull calves being the main issue. “We decided we would find a way to rear them no matter the cost,” says Mr Vanstone.

As time went on, they noticed that the breed seemed to be getting bigger and problems arose with cows slipping, resulting in fractures and injuries. On top of that fertility was suffering and there was a growing vet bill. “On average we were using three unsexed straws per pregnancy at £22-25 each – that left us with empty cows and a costly bull calf before we’d even begun to rear it,” says Mr Vanstone. “Milk solids were difficult to maintain, and it didn’t matter what we did we couldn’t keep the butterfat above 4%.” In 2013 the Vanstones decided to change to a breed more suited to their Arla cheese contract, and most importantly produce a saleable bull calf. “We really persisted with the Holsteins, but they no longer suited our system - it was becoming an uphill struggle and costing us.”

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After considering other breeds - including Norwegian Red and Montbeliarde - they were taken by the Fleckvieh. “For all intents and purposes, they are a dairy version of the Simmental,” he adds. “The traits that appealed to us were their solidness and longevity – a strong animal with good legs, feet and udders, high milk solids without the yield compromise and excellent fertility with robust, commercial calves – we were sold.” In spring 2014 they purchased 500 semen straws from eight pedigree Fleckvieh bulls: Impression, Manigo, Ivan, Willem, GS Pandora, GS Rufus, GS Rumgo and GS Mai. Never doing anything by halves, they served all the Holstein cows and heifers with Fleckvieh semen. They used lighter bulls for the heifers to prevent calving issues, and bulls with more prominent beef traits on the high yielders to improve milk solids and calf conformation. “The decision to crossbreed into pedigree Fleckvieh was mainly due to our TB restrictions – we didn’t want to risk worsening it or bringing something new onto the farm,” explains Mr Vanstone. The first service saw an immediate reduction in semen use, to 1.66 straws per pregnancy, with each straw costing £12. “We took our semen bill from £15,000 to below £7,000 and had 100+ straws left over. We can maintain conception rates using unsexed semen, with returns coming from either replacement heifers or beef.” In previous years, the Vanstones sold bull calves as stores at the orange (TB) market. But a licence to take stock straight to the slaughterhouse has given them control over finishing and reduced stress from transport. “This year we have finished steers at 17-18 months old at 550-600kg liveweight; they are killing out at around 300kg deadweight as R3s and O+3s making on average 323-333p/kg.” A meticulous approach to calf rearing sets the foundation for all calves. “Helen feeds them milk powder and creep until six weeks of age, moving them onto an 18% protein rearing mix until they are 12 weeks, thereafter they are fed a TMR,” he explains. All youngstock are grazed the following spring and fed token wheat gluten until winter housing, when they either enter the replacement or beef system. “The steers are finished on 8kg of rolled barley, 1kg rape meal and 10kg of grass silage per head daily - plus bicarb to help offset acidosis.”

Picture courtesy of Farlap Photography

The dairy herd now comprises 148 milkers with 94 bulling and in-calf heifers. And the average yield per lactation is 7,700 litres at 4.55 per cent protein and 3.44 per cent butterfat. “Yields are only marginally less than the Holstein, but they will go for at least three or four lactations longer, bringing lifetime productivity head and shoulders above what we were producing,” says Mr Vanstone. He calves the cows and heifers in a block from 4 August to 29 September. “We were able to tighten up our calving with improved fertility to coincide with our contacts seasonal bonuses.” The couple have noticed a huge difference in calf and herd health since they introduced the Fleckvieh. “Out of 170 calves last year we only lost two; one had an internal issue and the other may have been clostridial,” says Mr Vanstone. “In comparison to the eight vet visits in previous years, we have improved year on year with only three last year. We also had no veterinary assistance with difficult calvings or any caesareans,” he adds. “Mastitis was a challenge for a time but that was due to a fault with the parlour.” Antibiotic usage is now well below the industry average, with mastitis only treated with antibiotics if they go above 150,000 sc/ml. “We vaccinate against BVD, IBR and Leptospirosis to maintain a healthy herd.” The Fleckviehs have also brought a positive change to feed utilisation. “We were working on a high input, high output system with the Holsteins - they required a lot of feed to maintain their yields and milk solids,” says Mr Vanstone. The Review 2020

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“The Fleckviehs perform very well off grass; that has helped us move to a more extensive grazing system. Youngstock and dry cows are sent to away ground so cows in milk have grazing closest to the parlour.” During the winter housing period the milking cows are fed in-parlour with up to 4kg of wheat gluten, and a TMR in the cubicles; 45kg grass silage, 3kg rolled barley, 1.5kg ground maize,1.5kg rape meal and 150g limestone flour per head per day, plus magnesium chloride in the water when required. Economically, improved feed efficiencies have cut production costs by up to 10p/litre. “We have been able to stop growing maize on our marginal ground and cut soya from the diet altogether.” Adapting infrastructure to the Fleckvieh has also tied in well with the Vanstones’ commitment to continual improvements, and they have invested heavily in the past two years. “We have improved our cow tracks and installed an automated footbath to reduce lameness, and added roofing and guttering to the entire cow wintering area to improve the cows’ environment.” The largest investment has been a 50-point rotary parlour, which is already paying its way by cutting milking time – and therefore labour - from up to seven hours per day to two. Another benefit is that the Fleckvieh is an easy-going breed, if a little stubborn at time. “They are typically docile creatures, as heifers they take to the parlour well – and are quiet to be around,” says Mr Vanstone. Although their first lactation won’t match a Holstein, they make up for it in longevity. But it’s important to breed the second crosses with a high yield bull, he warns. “They seem to revert back to beef traits if you use a bull which carries a lower yield or is heavy on the beef side.” And the transition hasn’t been without its challenges. “It takes four crosses to produce a pedigree Fleckvieh - at present the milking herd is made up of first and second crosses, with third cross heifers producing the pedigree fourth cross in 2021,” says Mr Vanstone. “But we are severely affected by TB; in the past 18 months we have lost 100 cattle to TB, and have gone from 230 to 148 milking cows. It slows the process of achieving a pedigree herd down, but you have to remain positive. We’ve built for expansion and that’s what we intend to do.” Thanks are extended to the Farmers Guardian for the use of this article which was first published in the FG in 2020. 218

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SALES

PROVISIONAL BSCS SALE DATES FOR 2021 The following is a list of provisional BSCS sale dates at the time of publication, including Club Sales, for the 2021 year. Due to the ongoing Covid situation these sales and dates may be subject to change and members will be kept informed accordingly. MAY Worcester Sale 1st FEBRUARY Stirling Multibreed Sale 3rd th Aberdeen & Northern Marts 24 Carlisle Bull Sale 15th th st Stirling Bull Sales 27 - 1 March SEPTEMBER MARCH Worcester Autumn Sale 25th th Melton Mowbray Club Sale 27 OCTOBER APRIL Stirling Bull Sale 17th-18th Dungannon NI Club Sale 22nd Dungannon NI Society Sale 6th

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SALES

SALE REPORTS 2020

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SALES

Stirling February

£5039

ON THE YEAR BY

he February 2020 Stirling Simmental Bull Sale saw a terrific trade for the Wolfstar herd of Mr A King, Ormiston, East Lothian with bulls at 18,000gns & 17,000gns leading the sale. The sale saw 86 Simmental bulls sold to an increased average of £5039 (up by +£64) with a clearance rate of 67%. Leading the way at 18,000gns was the June-2018 born Wolfstar Jackaroo, by Team Celtic and out of Wolfstar Ellie. He sold to the judge Phillip Simmers who runs the Backmuir herd at Backmuir Farm, Keith. Mr Simmers, who judged the entries with his son Reece acting as a shadow judge, also paid the next best price of 17,000gns for the Reserve Senior Champion, the May 2018 born Wolfstar Jimmy Choo, by Islavale Guy and out of Wolfstar Forget-me-not. Also in the five figure prices at 10,000gns was a first prize intermediate bull from youngsters Kate and Alan McNee, whose parents Robert and Hazel run Over Finlarg Farm at Tealing, near Dundee. The brother and sister duo’s first bull ever sold at sale was the June-2018 born Finlarg Jaguar, by Team Drambuie. Finlarg Jaguar sold to S McClymont & Son, Tinnis, Selkirk.

£64

Topping the female trade of the day was the Female Champion Annick Duchess 19th, bred by Mr L D Quarm, Holehouse Farm, Annick Lodge Estate, By Irvine, Ayrshire. Sired by Wolfstar Gold Digger 15 and out of a Skerrington Visa daughter, she was sold for 4,200gns and another to the judge Phillip Simmers, Backmuir Farm, Keith.

Wolfstar Jackaroo 18,000gns

Wolfstar Jimmy Choo 17,000gns

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A R A N CE R

The reserve overall champion –Corskie Jalex, by Dirnanean Bradley from the Greens at Corskie – sold for 7,000gns to C & G Thomson, Wester Tulloch, Midmar. The Stronach family, which runs the Islavale herd at Berryleys, Grange, sold to a top of 7,000gns for Islavale Jeronimo, by Ranfurly Confederate. He sold to the Maxwells at Jaw Farm, Fintry. The Smiths, who run the Drumsleed herd at Fordoun, Laurencekirk, sold to a top of 6,000gns for Drumsleed Jakarta, by Wolfstar Gordy. He sold to DN Campbell, Bardnaclavan, Westfield, Thurso.

AVERAGES: 86 bulls £5039 (+£64) 16 females £1995 5 Cows and calves £2415

breeder Heather Duff’s sole entry, Pitmudie Joskin, by Dellfield Goldeneye sold for 7,200gns to JW Fullerton, Corsbie, Earlston.

Other leading prices included 8,000gns for Blackford Jumbo, by Blackford Galaxy, from the MacPhersons at Blackford, Croy, Inverness. He sold to A Wright, West Lundie, Argaty, Doune. Brechin

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67% C

SELLING TO AVERAGE

UP S E G A R E V A

86 BULLS

WOLFSTAR BULLS AT 18,000GNS & 17,000GNS LEAD THE WAY AT STIRLING FEBRUARY BULL SALES

SALES

Finlarg Jaguar 10,000gns

Saltire Jaguar 9000gns

Corskie Jackpot 9000gns

Ranfurly Jackpot 9000gns

Broombrae Joey 8200gns

Manor Park John 8000gns

Blackford Jumbo 8000gns

Annick Duchess 19th 4200gns The Review 2020

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SALES

Aberdeen February

£4,494 UP BY £84

THE ALL-BREEDS AVERAGES

83% LE

SELL TO AVERAGE

SIMMENTAL TOPS

10 BULLS

8,500GNS ISLAVALE JESTER TOPS THE FEBRUARY SALE AT ABERDEEN

A R A N CE R

opping the trade at Aberdeen and Northern Mart Spring Sale at Thainstone Centre, Inverurie, on 26th February was the 8,500gns Islavale Jester 18 bred by W S Stronach, Berryleys Farm, Grange, Keith, Banffshire. Sired by the well-known Ranfurly Confederate C24 11 EX 94, out of Islavale Eleanor 2 EX 91, a daughter of the 22,000gns Dirnanean Bradley 10 EX 93, this bull sold to Gill & Co, Ross-Shire.

UP S E G A R E V A

Judging the pre-show sale was Ian Goldie, of Greenhill, Cummertrees, Annan who put up Blackford Jaguar 18, from Mr W G Macpherson (A Firm), Blackford Farm, Croy, Inverness, as his Champion. Sired by the noted Blackford Galaxy 15, and out of Silver Wells Belle EX 91, a Kilbride Farm Strabane daughter, this bull sold for 5,800gns to G Ramsay, Keith. Third top price on the day and the Reserve Champion bull was Tillyeve Jason 18, from Messrs C & M Bruce, Tillyeve, Ellon,

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Aberdeenshire. An Overhill House Ghandi son, out of Tillyeve Gemma, a Grangewood Columbus 11, this bull sold for 4,800gns to B Norburn, Freswick.

INNERWICK & BRAIDWOOD S I M M E N TA L S

GREENCAP JAEGER

Junior Male Champion, Overall Junior Champion and Res. Male Champion at the Royal Highland Show, 2019 SOLD FOR 7,500GNS

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WELSTON SIMMENTALS

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EX93

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Current Herd Classification AVERAGE SCORE COWS 89

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AVERAGE SCORE HEIFERS 85

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Stephens Green, Milton, Tenby, Pembs SA70 8PD

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SALES

Stirling May

7600GNS ISLAVALE JAMMYDODGER HEADS UP STIRLING MAY BULLS SIMMENTAL BREED INCREASES ITS SALE AVERAGE BY £375

21 BULLS SELLING TO AVERAGE

£4814

AGES UP R E V A L A SIMMENT ON THE YEAR BY

slavale Jammydodger 18 from Mr WS Stronach, Berryleys Farm, Grange, Keith, sold for 7600gns to lead the trade for Simmental bulls from United Auctions’ Stirling Bull Sales May catalogue. From a strong line-up of bulls offered from the herd, Islavale sold five bulls in all at over 6000gns to gross £33,968 at an average of £6794. Due to the lockdown and restrictions in place with the Covid-19 pandemic, this year’s sale was conducted via direct marketing instead of a live sale at Stirling Agricultural Centre. A very solid demand for Simmental bulls saw 21 sell to average £4814.15, up by a mighty £375.15. Of the six breeds offered for sale in the catalogue, only one other breed saw an increase in averages on the year. The November 2018 born Islavale Jammydodger, the youngest catalogued Islavale bull, is by the AI sire Team Celtic 11 and is out of Islavale Elisha EX 91, a Curaheen Bandit daughter. Heading down south and to a pedigree home, Islavale Jammydoger was purchased by Rhys Grenham, Boars Head Farm, Crowborough, Sussex to join his Boars Head Simmental herd. Commenting, Mr Grenham said: “We saw the bull advertised in the pre-sale catalogue, and whilst we hadn’t seen him in the flesh we saw the pictures of him and also spoke to Stewart Stronach. The bull has a combination of good breeding and performance figures that we like. We could see in the pics, and now confirmed when he’s home, he’s got terrific conformation, length, width and power, and carries a real Simmental presence.” After settling into his new surrounds, Islavale Jammydodger will be heading out to work in the herd which presently comprises of 10 pedigree cows with youngstock coming through behind. The Boars Head herd was established in the early 1970s and has carried on through three generations to present. “We very much try and produce the best stock we can to sell good Simmental bulls commercially, and to support pedigree sales with both bulls and females. Purchasing Islavale Jammydodger is an investment for the herd to continue to meet that quality aim”, said Mr Grenham. The Simmental breed has enjoyed a strong trade into the Scottish islands in recent years and this was continued when the second top

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£375

5 ISLAVALE BULLS AVERAGE £6794

priced bull, Islavale Jordi 18 (TF) also from the Stronach family, sold for 6500gns to JR Rendall, Whitehow, Orkney. This bull, October 2018 born, is by the herd’s stock bull Corskie Highlander and is out of another Curaheen Bandit daughter, Islavale Topaz 3. A maternal half-brother to the noted 25,000gns Corskie Gingersnap, Corskie Highlander’s first calf at sale for the Islavale herd, Islavale Jackpot, made the 15,000gns sale top price when selling at Stirling in October 2019. Continuing the May 2020 sale run, Islavale Javelin 18 sold for 6250gns. This calf is sired by Ranfurly Confederate C24 11 EX 94, and is out of Islavale Freda, a Woodhall Walker daughter. October 2018 born, Islavale Javelin was purchased by Islay Estates, Isle of Islay. A prolic sire, Ranfurly Confederate sons have previously sold up to 24,000gns for the Islavale herd. Heading to the same buyer was Islavale Javan at 6000gns. October 2018 born, Islavale Javan is by Atlow Dixon 12 and is out of another Woodhall Walker daughter, Islavale Cassie. Islavale Javan is a full brother to Islavale Gambler who was the Overall Simmental Champion at Stirling in February 2017. The last bull at 6000gns was Islavale Jabba who was purchased by Gavin Brown for his Springfield pedigree herd at Springfield Farm, Penicuik. This bull, November 2018 born is by the Team Celtic 11 son, Wolfstar Elusive 13, and is out of Islavale Eleanor, another Curaheen Bandit daughter. Selling at 5200gns was the polled bull Corskie Journal PP 18 from Mr WJ & J Green, Fochabers, Moray. This November 2018 bull is by Linde General and is out of Lykke Isabella who was imported from Denmark as a heifer after Iain Green judged her as overall junior female champion at the Danish National Simmental Show in 2015. Buying this bull was J C McLaren & Partners, for their Dargill pedigree herd at Crieff, Perthshire. AVERAGES: 21 Bulls £4814.15 (+£375.15)

SALES

ISLAVALE JAMMYDODGER 7600gns

ISLAVALE JORDI 6500gns

ISLAVALE JAVELIN 6250gns

ISLAVALE JABBA 6000gns

ISLAVALE JAVAN 6000gns

CORSKIE JOURNAL 5200gns

Carlisle May

3400GNS HEPPLEWHITE JUPITER 18 TAKES THE TOP PRICE AT CARLISLE

rom a small show of online bulls at Carlisle’s May Simmental Sale, the October 2018 born Hepplewhite Jupiter 18, a heterozygous polled bull from John & Olive Trafford, Springfield, Cockermouth made the top price of 3400gns. By Sneumgaard Imperator and out of Hepplewhite Champagne 23rd, the purchaser was Robert Davison, Crowhall Farm, Hartley Lane, Whitley Bay, Tyne & Wear.

The second top price of 3000gns was paid for Bosahan Kestrel from John & Bridget Olds, Bosahan Farm, Falmouth, Cornwall. Another heterozygous polled bull, Kestrel is by Heathbrow Freddie Starr 14 (P), and is out of Bosahan Briony. Buying this bull was AM&VR Pascoe, Lower Boskenwyn Farm, Gweek, Helston. In all four bulls were sold at the fixture which was entirely online due to the Covid-19 situation. The Review 2020

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SALES

Stirling October

SELL TO AVERAGE

Islavale Kristoff 14,000gns

wo bulls from the Islavale herd of Mr WS Stronach, Berryleys Farm, Grange, Keith both made 14,000gns to lead a solid Simmental trade at the Stirling October Bull Sale held at United Auctions Stirling Agricultural Centre on Monday 19th October. Held under the restricted Covid conditions, the sale saw four bulls making five figures and over, and twenty-six in all selling at 5000gns or more. The fifty-two bulls sold, the most by any breed in the week, averaged a healthy £5589 which was up by £411 on the year. The clearance rate was 64% of the bulls forward. Bulls to produce top quality breeding females were very much in demand from commercial breeders who led the bidding. Commenting on the bulls, John Roberts of United Auctioneers said: “It was a strong show and there was a ready demand for long, clean bulls with a bit of size and style and with good milk figures.” Bulls sold into all areas of Scotland and into the islands with eleven going to Orkney and further bulls also going to the Isle of Islay, and Isle of Bute. The first of the Islavale bulls at 14,000gns was the April 2019 born Islavale Kristoff 19. Semen tested prior to sale, this bull is by Corskie Highlander who has had previous sons to 15,000gns, and is out of the seven-year-old Islavale Ethel EX 91. Purchasing the joint top price was Pitgaveny Farms who run the Pitgaveny pedigree herd at Elgin, Morayshire.

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FEMALE OUTFITS SELL TO 5500GNS

64% LE

£5,589 UP BY £411

SIMMENTALS LEAD

THE BREEDS IN NUMBERS SOLD

52 BULLS

TWO ISLAVALE BULLS MAKE 14,000GNS AND LEAD A SOLID TRADE AT STIRLING

A R A N CE R

Islavale Kai 14,000gns

Speaking after the sale, Geoff Anderson who manages the herd at Pitgaveny Farms said; “We had seen the Islavale bulls on farm prior to the sale and Islavale Kristoff is just our type of bull. He’s got power, great depth and width, and is good on his legs, just a very complete bull. First and foremost we liked the bull but it is a bonus that he also has some very good performance figures.” The plans for the bull are to put him to some of the herds’ 12 pedigree cows before mainly using him on the 225 strong herd of commercial Simmental cross cows. In the commercial herd females that are not retained as replacements are sold as bulling heifers at 18/19 months, with the male progeny left entire and put through a bull beef system. Also from the Stronach’s at 14,000gns was Islavale Kai 19. Again April 2019 born, this bull is by Curaheen Giant 2 whose progeny have sold at Stirling up to 16,000gns, and is out of the Popes Laird daughter Islavale Britney. This bull was purchased by commercial producers J&J Pattullo at Sandyford, Kirriemuir, Angus. Commenting, Ian Pattullo said; “This bull was very pleasing to the eye and carried a lot of length and style. We run 150 Simmental x Limousin bulls and are looking to breed our own heifers. This is the most we’ve paid for a bull and it’s very much an investment for the herd to produce and leave the quality of progeny we’re looking for. We want to have plenty of length in our cows and also good milk.” Prior to the sale Mr Pattullo said that he had studied a lot of the bulls and their breeding on the Society’s Simmental Market website which he had found very helpful.

SALES

From a strong pen of bulls, all pre-sale semen tested, the prolific Islavale herd sold six bulls in all to gross a mighty 50,800gns and to an average of £8,889. Further Islavale bulls sold at 6500, 6000, 5800, and 4500gns. Another good pen of bulls, semen tested and with excellent performance figures, came in the shape of the offering from the Strathisla herd of Strathisla Farms, Moolies, Meigle, Blairgowrie. Topping this pen at 11,500gns was the April 2019 born Strathisla Kinloch 19. In the top 1% of the breed for milk and with a Self Replacing Index of +118, this bull is by the noted sire Atlow Dixon 12 EX 91, and is out of Strathisla Foxys Mira VG 88, who is from the ‘best breeding line’ in the herd. Strathisla Kinloch was bought by R&N Barclay, (Harestone Farm), South Road, Insch, Aberdeenshire for their 400-cow commercial herd which is heavily influenced by Simmental genetics. Speaking of his purchase Stuart Barclay said; “The Strathisla bull had extreme length, was clean, and well grown for his age. We liked the breeding with him being by the proven Atlow sire and from a strong female line. We’ll be aiming to use the bull to breed dark red female replacements which in turn will be put to the Charolais bull. We find that combination produces very marketable progeny that meet a ready demand at both Huntly and Thainstone markets commercial sales.” Through the sale the Strathisla herd sold six bulls in all to average an excellent £6352.50. The final bull in the four figure prices was Broombrae Kojac 19 who made 10,000gns for the breeder Mr GL Clark, Broombrae Farm, Auchtermuchty, Cupar, Fife. This bull is by the herd sire Lisglass Goldstar 15, who this year won the senior bull class in the Society’s Virtual Show, and is out of the Team Wisconsin daughter Broombrae Delight. Purchasing the March 2019 born Broombrae Kojac 19 was Mr D Lowry who runs the Keeldrum pedigree herd at Newsteadings Farm, Cartland, Lanark. After the sale Mr Lowry said; “This bull is full of breeding and from a very strong female line. I know the sire very well and the mother, Broombrae Delight, is one of the best cows I’ve seen. The bull in himself is long and clean, has a bit of power about him, an excellent top, and is very correct on his legs. This is the most I’ve paid to date for a bull and with the aim of continuing to build the quality in the herd.” The Keeldrum herd presently comprises of seventy plus cows. Through the winter the bull will be given a few cows to settle in before being given a batch of cows in the spring. Finishing on a high note, the last bull in the sale ring, the June 2019 born Greencap Kane 19 from Colin Inglis, Dalachy Farm, Aberdour, Fife, made 9000gns. Another bull with strong performance figures, Greencap Kane 19 is by Denizes Fabio 14, and is out of the Omorga Volvo daughter Greencap Darcy. Heading north, Greencap Kane was bought by D&R Durno & Sons for their Auchorachan pedigree herd at Auchorachan Farm, Glenlivet, Ballindalloch. Of his purchase, Michael Durno said; “I was taken by the length and correctness of this bull and he’s been bought for the pedigree job but will double up with the commercial herd as well. I liked the breeding in the bull and had seen pictures of the cow prior to the sale, and also liked a half-brother of this bull that was sold at Stirling to a pedigree herd last year.” Mr MA Barlow, Four Oaks, Ulnes, Nr Leyland, Lancashire, sold Denizes Kylian 19 for 8500gns. This January 2019 born bull, carrying width and muscle, had tremendous performance figures across the board for calving ease, milk, and with a top 1% Self Replacing Index. By the homebred stock bull Denizes Hamish, Denizes Kylian is out of Denizes Trixi Belle 3rd. Another bull going to a commercial producer,

Denizes Kylian 19 was snapped up by DM Keay & Son, East Balloch, Kirriemuir, Angus. From the Backmuir team of Reece & Andrew Simmers, Backmuir Farm, Keith, Banffshire, the March 2019 born Backmuir Knight 19 made 8000gns. By Corrick Hayden 16, a Kilbride Farm Delboy son, this bull is out of Starline Karina 50th. Heading back to Keith, Backmuir Knight 19 was purchased by EM Smith & Sons, Towiemore, Drummuir, who are top end commercial Simmental consignors at sales at Aberdeen and Northern Marts. Another from the Simmers, Backmuir Knox 19, also made 7000gns when selling to WJ Fraser & Sons, Auchnarrow, Glenlivet, Ballindalloch. April 2019 born, this bull is another by Corrick Hayden 16 and is also out of a Starline female, Starline Eva 23rd. The Starline breeding is from the herd of RH Widdicombe, Ashprington, Totnes, Devon. Also at 7000gns was Drumsleed Karate 19 from Mr GW Smith, Drumsleed, Fordoun, Lawrencekirk, Aberdeenshire. This March 2019 bull is by Wolfstar Gordy 15, a Team Celtic 11 son, and is out of the Popes Barclay daughter Drumsleed Faye 14. Another bull with excellent performance figures, Drumsleed Karate 19 sold to the islands and N&M McLellan, Kilchiaran Farm, Port Charlotte, Isle of Islay. Also a Wolfstar Gordy 15 son, Drumsleed Know-how 19 sold for 6800gns to S&J Urquhart, Bogloch, Lumphannan, Aberdeenshire. An April 2019 born bull, Drumsleed Know-how is out of the nine year old Drumsleed Calypso. Further bulls from the Drumsleed herd sold for 5500, 5000, and 3500gns to yield a very solid average. Other leading prices: Lot 636 6500gns Islavale Kiddo to AH Smith, Low Arkland Farm, Celton, Castle Douglas, Kirkudbrightshire. Lot 644 6000gns Islavale Kuzco to Scottish Government Bull Stud, Knocknagael, Inverness Lot 633 5800gns Islavale Khan to GW & KP Lawrie, Hillhead of Careston, By Brechin, Angus. Lot 666 5800gns Strathisla Kruger to A&J Craig, Craigton, castle Douglas, Kirkudbrightshire. Lot 603 5500gns Drumsleed Kayak to G Angus & Co, Binzian Farm, Forgandenny, Perth. Lot 610 5500gns Jaw Kabull to T Clark & Sons, Abbey farm, Madderty, Crieff Lot 620 5500gns Team Knockout 19 to R McNee Ltd, Woodend Farm, Armadale, West Lothian Lot 670 5500gns Annick Kevlar to C&M Bruce, Tillyeve, Udny, Ellon.

Strathisla Kinloch 11,500gns The Review 2020

229

SALES

Stirling October

Broombrae Kojac 10,000gns

Greencap Kane 9,000gns

Denizes Kylian 8,500gns

Backmuir Knight 8,000gns

DENIZES FEMALE ‘OUTFIT’ SELLS TO 5500GNS

rom the small female offering the seven-year-old Denizes Melody 17th, from Mr MA Barlow, Ulnes, Nr Leyland, Lancashire, along with her polled bull calf at foot, Denzies Lynx made 5500gns when selling as separate lots. Denizes Melody 17th, an Ashland Tornado daughter Pd’d in calf to Blackford Galaxy, was bought by Fulton Ronald, Duntuim, Aberfeldy, for 2700gns, whilst Denizes Lynx, a Slievenagh International 17 (PP) sired calf was bought for 2800gns by GMR & FM Sandison, Hindatoon, Harray, Orkney. A further seven year old cow Cairnview Sonia 2nd and her bull calf at foot Cairnview Loyal 20, from Mr AJ Wilson, Westcroft Farm, Kilwinning, Ayrshire made a combined 5100gns when sold as separate lots but both being snapped up by WR Simmers & Sons, Backmuir, Keith, Banffshire. Cairnview Sonia 2nd, a Bruchag Awesome 09 9 daughter and AI’d to Woodhall Ferrari, made 2100gns, whilst her bull calf, Cairnview Loyal 20, sired by Woodhall Ferrari, made 3000gns. The Denizes herd also made 4800gns when selling the March 2017 born first calved heifer Denizes Trixie Belle 12 to OF W Stevenson, Ballingry Farm, Ballingry, Fife. This heifer is by Dinton Nautical and out of Denizes Trixie Belle 8. She was sold, Pd’d in calf to Blackford 230

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

Denizes Melody and Lynx 5,500gns

Galaxy, with her May 2020 born polled heifer calf at foot, Denizes Trixie Belle 17, by Slievenagh International 17 (PP). AVERAGES: 52 Bulls 10 Females 4 Calves AUCTIONEERS: United Auctions

£5589 (+£411) £2877 (+£549) £4541.25

Dungannon October

SALES

WELLBRAY SIMMENTAL BULL SELLS TO 3,500GNS AT DUNGANNON Breed average increases by £516

small entry of pedigree bulls sold to a top of 3,500gns at the Northern Ireland Simmental Club’s autumn sale, hosted by Dungannon Farmers’ Mart on Friday, 23rd October.

The sale, sponsored by Bimeda, saw four bulls sell to average £2,861 each – an increase of £516 on this time last year.

the eye of pedigree herd owner Aaron Smyth who runs the 8-cow Gortnacarry Herd alongside a 40-cow commercial suckler enterprise based at Culnady, Maghera. “This bull is a long, clean and deepbodied, with a level back, breed character and good legs and feet,” said Mr Smyth.

Taking the the day’s top price, and setting a new herd record of 3,500gns, was local Pomeroy breeder David McElmurry, who established his 12-cow Wellbray herd in 2014. The fifteen-monthold Wellbray Kingbee 19 is sired by Kilbride Farm Warren, and is the first calf from the home-bred Kilbride Farm Dragoon daughter Wellbray Bella. Kingbee is in the breed’s top 10% for milk and caught

Second highest price of the day at 3,000gns, went to William Nelson, and son George, from Rosslea, for the fourteen-monthold Drumacritten Kyle. This bull was sired by the 2014 and 2015 Balmoral Show breed champion Dermotstown Delboy, and is out of the home-bred Omorga Volvo daughter Drumacritten Gaby GP84. Ranked in the breed’s top 15% for calving ease at +3, this one sold to suckler farmer David Wright from Caledon.

Wellbray Kingbee 3500gns

Drumacritten Kyle 19 3000gns

The Review 2020

231

SALES

SOCIETY SALES CHECKLIST To help members with entry and inspection requirements for Simmental Society Sales, please use the following checklist, and supporting sale requirements, and sale precheck notes.

Required

Additional Notes

DNA test bulls and first calving females –12 weeks prior to sale recommended

All bulls and first calving females must be sire verified before the sale. It is recommended that samples should be submitted 12 weeks prior to sale to allow time for testing and possible re-sampling if required

Submit performance data ready for inclusion in catalogue

All scanning weight data should be submitted prior to close of entries so data can be included in the catalogue. Only bulls that have been scanned and weighed will have figures published in the catalogue.

Check closing date for entries

On auctioneer website, Simmental website and Facebook

Submit entries to auctioneers

Either via auctioneers on-line entry system or postal entries

Submit Herd Health Declaration – All herds must be testing for Johnes and have a Risk Level 1-4

Herd Health Declarations to be submitted with entries. Details will be checked with relevant CHeCS scheme providers and must be up to date at the time of the sale.

Carry out BVD testing and vaccination

Animals must be BVD Accredited free or tested for BVD. All entries must be BVD vaccinated prior to sale.

Check pedigree and passport details correspond

Advise the Society immediately of any discrepancies between pedigree and passport information

Check ear tags

Ensure these meet the required legislation

Scrotal Circumference

Minimum size Under 18 months – 36cm Over 18 months – 38cm

Semen testing

If bulls have been Semen Tested and this is included in the catalogue or announced at the sale a copy of the semen test paperwork must be provided to the auctioneer.

Presale Inspection

All cattle forward at the sale will be veterinary inspected by a Society appointed vet. Eyes, teeth, testicles/udders, temperament and general health will be checked. Bulls will be weighed and must meet the minimum weight criteria specified in the Bye Laws.

REQUIREMENTS FOR ENTERING OFFICIAL SOCIETY SALES • All vendors must be members of a CHeCS approved Health Scheme • All entries must be tested/vaccinated for BVD (testing does not apply to accredited herds) • All vendors must be screening for Johnes and a risk level included on the Herd Health Declaration • All bulls must be DNA sire verified • All females that have not had a registered calf must be DNA sire verified • DNA samples should be with the Society by the close of entries • Herd Health Declarations should be with the Society by the close of entries. Details will be checked with the relevant scheme and must be up to date at the time of the sale. • For EBV’s to be printed in the catalogue, all males must be scanned and have an authenticated weighing

232

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

• All females will have EBV’s printed in the catalogue • All bulls listed as semen tested must have appropriate official certification presented to the market office along with the animal’s passport.

IBR Testing and vaccination of heifers is no longer compulsory for Official Society Sales. Members are encouraged to continue with the testing of their herds via the CHeCS health scheme. The IBR status of a herd will continue to be requested within the sale herd Health Declaration and included in the vendor index in the sale catalogue.

SALES

SALE PRECHECKS Please be aware of the following before entering Simmental Cattle to any of our Society sales: •

Testicles Bull’s testicles will be measured and inspected by the veterinary surgeon. They must be a minimum size of 36 cm in circumference (14 Months), and 38 cm (over 18 months), measured at the widest point of the scrotum. The vet retains the right at his discretion to reject any bulls with uneven or soft testicles. Progeny from bulls with small/uneven/soft testicles which fail inspections will not be accepted into the BSCS herd book 10 months after the sale inspection date. Bulls which may have suffered injury will be considered on a case-bycase basis.

•

Warts Animals with active warts must be treated by the member’s veterinary surgeon and a vet’s certificate should be available for inspection at the Sale

•

Teeth Teeth must make proper contact with the dental pad of the upper jaw but due allowance will be made for the age and dental development of the animal. Any animal with severely undershot or severely overshot jaws will be rejected and progeny from such animals will not be accepted into the BSCS herd book 10 months after the sale inspection date. Where the veterinary surgeon declares that an animal is marginally overshot or undershot that animal may still be offered through the sale but will be excluded from the show. The Auctioneer will announce that at the point of inspection of animal was found to be marginally overshot or undershot

•

General Health Animals with active infections, a contagious disease, or a disorder or condition, may be rejected by the veterinary surgeon. Minor injuries may be treated by a veterinary surgeon in the market but this must be announced at the time of sale. The decisions of the veterinary surgeon appointed by the Society are final and binding. Any animal which is considered by the vet to be not in a healthy and proper condition to be presented as representing a good specimen of the breed at an official collective sale, will be rejected.

•

Feet Please ensure that feet and legs are sound and locomotion is satisfactory.

•

Check that the animals are of good conformation/condition and meet the required minimum weight for age as per the chart below:AGE IN DAYS 365 370 375 380 385 390 395 400 405 410 415 420 425 430 435

WEIGHT 573 580 586 593 600 607 613 620 625 630 635 640 645 650 655

AGE IN DAYS 440 445 450 455 460 465 470 475 480 485 490 500 505 510 515

WEIGHT 660 665 670 675 680 685 690 695 700 705 710 720 725 729 734

AGE IN DAYS 520 525 530 535 540 545 550 555 560 565 570 575 580 585 590

WEIGHT 738 743 747 752 756 761 765 770 774 779 783 788 792 797 801

AGE IN DAYS 595 600 605 610 615 620 625 630 635 640 645 650 655 660 665

WEIGHT 806 810 815 819 824 828 833 837 842 846 851 855 860 864 869

AGE IN DAYS 670 675 680 685 690 695 700 705 710 715 720 725 730 735 740

WEIGHT 873 878 882 887 891 896 900 905 909 914 918 923 927 932 936

AGE IN DAYS 745 750 755 760 765 770 775 780 785 790 795 800

WEIGHT 941 945 950 954 959 963 968 972 977 981 986 990

IT IS THE PURCHASER’S RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE THAT THE HEALTH STATUS OF THE CATTLE PURCHASED MEET THE CRITERIA OF THEIR EXISTING HERD HEALTH SCHEME. If in any doubt or we can help any further please contact the Society for further information.

The Review 2020

233

AUCTIONEERS, VALUERS, LAND AND ESTATE AGENTS SUCCESSFULLY OPERATING 5 LIVESTOCK MARKETS IN CATTLE COUNTRY

Further details of all our livestock and professional services from

McCartneys LLP, The Heath Meadow, Nunnery Way, Worcester WR4 0SQ Tel: 01905 769770 Fax: 01905 769772 Email: Worcester@mccartneys.co.uk

234

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

TIDKIN

Selectively breeding Simmentals since 1984 incorporating super female lines from well respected herds which include Hockenhull and Raceview

Youngstock available to advance order and reared to buyers requirement HiHealth Herdcare member Accredited Free of BVD Risk Level 1 Johne’s disease status

Herd sire :- Clonagh Joker Poker

by Clonagh Tiger Gallant

Below a snapshot of our produce, Tidkin Leon & Tidkin Liberty aged around 6mths, both sired by Joker Poker

Junior sire :- Clonagh Lexus (P)

by Manor Park Hansome

Contact - Gerald Towers, Turners Arms Farm, Yearby, Redcar, TS11 8HH (gerald@tidkin.co.uk) Mobile: 07939582966

The Review 2020

235

FEMALES

BULLS

236

Suggested Names for 2021 beginning with M Mack

Marksman

Max

Millar

Maestro

Marouane

Maxwell

Milord

Magic

Marquis

Mayor

Minor

Magnificient

Mars

Mcgregor

Minstrel

Magnus

Marshall

Mckenzie

Mischief

Major

Martin

Memphis

Mohamed

Malcolm

Martinez

Mercury

Monarch

Manny

Mascot

Merlin

Moneymaker

Manuel

Mason

Micah

Monty

Maradona

Masterpiece

Michael

Morgan

Marcel

Mata

Mickey

Morris

Marcopolo

Matador

Midas

Moses

Marek

Matteo

Midge

Mourinho

Mariner

Matthew

Mighty

Mungo

Mario

Mattie

Mike

Munroe

Marius

Maurice

Mikel

Murphy

Mark

Maverick

Milan

Murray

Mabel

Margo

May

Miriam

Madam

Maria

Megan

Misty

Maddison

Mariah

Melanie

Modesty

Madeleine

Marigold

Melinda

Moira

Madge

Marilyn

Melissa

Molly

Madonna

Marion

Melody

Mona

Maeve

Marquise

Mercedes

Moneypenny

Maggie

Marta

Mia

Monica

Maisie

Martini

Michelle

Monroe

Majesty

Mary

Milady

Morag

Mandy

Matchmaker

Millie

Mulberry

Marchioness

Matilda

Minnie

Mulan

Marcia

Maud

Mint

Muriel

Margaret

Mavis

Miranda

Myla

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

Semen for Private Sale from Society Members SIRE

H.B NO

VENDOR OF SEMEN

Contact Details

Atlow Dixon

M082827

Mr W S Stronach

07779 782777

Auchorachan Wizard

M072755

Mr J Wilson

07517 461408 / 028 406 31863

Auroch Ace

I000891

Mr G W Smith

01561 320555

Beeches Kestrel

M053174

Mr G W Smith

01561 320555

Bel Dhu Capercaillie

M079624

Mr J Green

01343 870387

Blackford Galaxy

M045303

Mr M A Barlow

01772 601403 / 07921 674041

Blackford Worzel

M072312

Mr C Houldey

07703 488277

Bosahan Dynamo

M082581

Mr M A Barlow

01772 601403 / 07921 674041

Cairnview Snazzy

M066099

W H Robson & Sons

028 933 40304 / 07968 814 180

Camus Brandy

M029502

Mr J Wilson

07517 461408 / 028 406 31863

Chegwidden Alfie

M073024

Mrs V Hall

07831 834013

Chestermann Varney

M070859

Mr W S Stronach

07779 782777

Clonagh A Super Star

I000967

Mr W S Stronach

07779 782777

Clonagh Tiger Galland

I000656

D & R Durno & Sons

7718 467868

Clonagh Tiger Gallant

I000656

D & R Durno & Sons

07718 467868

Corskie Highlander

M090778

Mr W S Stronach

07779 782777

Craighill Laser

M055418

Mr G W Smith

01561 320555

Curaheen Bandit

I000966

Mr W S Stronach

07779 782777

Curaheen Giant

I001673

Mr W S Stronach

07779 782777

Curaheen Vobster

I000776

Mr W S Stronach

07779 782777

Denizes Exclusive

S002913

Genus

01270 616616

Denizes Hamish

M090827

Mr M A Barlow

01772 601403 / 07921 674041

Denizes Imperial

S003116

Mr & Mrs Fitton

07870 645916

Denizes Inferno

M095434

Genus

01270 616616

Dermotstown Delboy

S002885

J L & C J Weatherup

07875 728826

Dirnanean Bradley

M076366

Mr J Green

01343 870387

Drumlone Anchor

M074121

Mr WE & KM Nelson / Mr LA Richardson

028 67751625 / 077644895100 / 07855 436203

Heathbrow Tristar

M067265

Mrs Hayley Clarke

07799 693582

Hirwaun Rooney

M064400

Mr A Davies

07866 282 766

Islavale Echo 2

M085472

Mr W S Stronach

07779 782777

Islavale Jerico

M096342

Mr S A Gummow

01637 880523

Kilbride Farm Delboy

M082204

AI Services (Robin Boyd)

028 90833123

Kilbride Farm Escalop 13

M084884

W H Robson & Sons

028 933 40304 / 07968 814 180

Kilbride Farm Hans (PP)

M092351

W H Robson & Sons

028 933 40304 / 07968 814 180

Killiworgie Emperor 13

M083562

Mr S A Gummow

01637 880523

Lakeside Warrior

M071338

Mr S A Gummow

01637 880523

Manor Park Handsome

M092520

Mr C Houldey

07703 488277

Milnafua Graduate

M045753

W H Robson & Sons

028 933 40304 / 07968 814 180

Omorga Baldwin

M076745

AI Services (Robin Boyd)

028 90833123

Omorga Isaac

M093767

AI Services (Robin Boyd)

028 90833123

Popes Laird

M055700

Mr J Green

01343 870387

Promi (PP)

I001148

Mr & Mrs L Moffat

01368 840270

Ranfurly Confederate C24

M080428

Mr W S Stronach

07779 782777

Shacon Hannibal

S003142

AI Services (Robin Boyd)

028 90833123

Shanehill Victor

M070321

Mr C Houldey

07703 488277

Slievenagh International 17 (PP)

M094872

Mr M A Barlow

01772 601403 / 07921 674041

Sneumgaard Imperator (PP)

I001191

W H Robson & Sons

028 933 40304 / 07968 814 180

Team Fergus

M086029

D & R Durno & Sons

07718 467868

Team Fergus

M086029

D & R Durno & Sons

07718 467868

Tiset Darwin

I000865

Judith Cockerill

01295 690274 / 07979 404388

The Review 2020

237

PROMOTIONAL GOODS 2021 All Garments Are Supplied With The Simmental Logo Or SYMA Logo Embroidered On The Left Breast HERD NAME PREFIX PLEASE ADD £3.50 1

For orders please contact the Society on:

02476 696513 or information@britishsimmental.co.uk JACKETS

10. Front Row Long Sleeve Rugby Shirts

1. Regatta Thor 111 Long Sleeved Zipped Fleece Colours: black/red/navy/royal blue

Sizes: XS to 4XL (unisex)

£26.00

Sizes: XS to 4XL (unisex)

£55.00

Sizes: S to 3XL (ladyfit available)

£75.00

4. Mens Urban Cheltenham Diamond Jacket Colours: Navy/Black

Sizes: XS to 3XL

£38.00

Sizes: XS to XL

£45.00

5. Ladies Padded (like down) Jacket Colours: Navy/Black 6. Result Ultra Quilted Gilet Colours: Red/Navy/Black

Sizes: XS to 3XL (unisex)

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

Sizes: S to 2XL (unisex)

£25.00

12. AWD Varsity Hoodie Colours: Navy with Red lining, Kelly Green with White lining, Bottle Green with Red lining

ACCESSORIES 13. Ties £14.00

Colours: Navy/green/Burgundy

£12.00

Colours: Red Colours: Navy/Red Peak, Forest Green/ Beige Peak

Sizes: Collars 14” to 22” Lady-fit Sizes: 8 to 20

£25.00

Sizes: S to 3XL (unisex)

£15.00

Sizes: XS to 2XL Ladyfit: 10 to 18

£23.00

One Size adjustable

£12.00

One Size

£12.00

16. WOOLEN HATS Colours: Navy/Black/Red/Royal Blue/Bottle Green

9. Henbury Classic Polo Shirt

238

£29.00

15. CAPS

8. Screen Stars Basic Polo Shirt

Colours: any colour

Sizes: S to 2XL (unisex)

14. 50 Anniversary Tie £40.00

7. Oxford Shirts

Colours: White/Navy/Black/Forest Green/Red/ Royal Blue

Colours: Navy with Red lining and zip, Kelly Green with White lining and zip, Red with Black lining and zip

SHIRTS / POLOS Available in long sleeve or short sleeve. Colours: white/silver/pale blue Lady-fit: White/Pale Blue in

£28.00

11. AWD Varsity Zipped Hoodie

3. Regatta Defender 3 in 1 Jacket Colours: Black/navy/royal blue

Sizes: S to 2XL. Ladyfit: S to 4XL

CASUAL TOPS

2. Russell Performance Softshell Jacket Colours: Navy/Red/Black

Colours: Navy/Bottle Green/Royal Blue/ Purple/Red. Ladies fit Colours: Navy/Hot Pink/Red.

SIZE GUIDE Advice: Lady-fit sizes are tapered at the waist and shorter in the length to unisex. Lady-fit Sizes: S - 10, M - 12, L - 14, XL - 16, 2XL - 18 , 3XL - 20 , 4XL - 22 Men’s/Unisex Sizes: XS - 34”, S - 36”, M - 38/40”, L - 42”, XL - 44/46”, 2XL - 48” 3XL—50/52” 4XL—54” Some colours are not available in 4XL

Denizes Simmentals QP

Advert

Blackford Galaxy

Denizes Hamish

Royal Highland Show Champion 2018

“Muscle Machine”

Sire: Curlieu Knight Dam: Blackford Aero First two sons sold for 11,000gns each at Stirling Feb 2019. We are very impressed with Galaxy’s calves. – £10 per straw, £60 Royalty –

Sire: Dinton Nautical Dam: Auroch Eve Dam Auroch Eve was two-time Royal Highland Show Champion 2015, 2016. – £50 per straw, no Royalty –

Denizes Hamish Sons

Denizes Kylian

Denizes Jamie

Denizes Kingston

Sold for 8500gns Stirling October 2020

Sold for 7000gns Stirling February 2020

Sold to the Midhope herd privately

HP Advert Denizes Melody 17th & Denizes Lynx (P) Sold for top price female Stirling October 2020 for 5500gns

Stock and Semen for sale

Visitors welcome by appointment

Denizes Trixiebelle 12th Sold Stirling October 2020 for 4800gns first calved heifer

Barlow Brothers Littlewood Hall Farm, Croston, Lancashire Call 07921 674041 or 07850 602679 The Review 2020

239

PEDIGREE BULL LEVY SEMEN (ROYALTY) SCHEME T

he Society’s levy scheme enables semen from a bull to be sold for both pedigree and commercial use at a standard price. The owner of the bull can set a levy price over and above the cost of the semen. This means that if the semen is used for a pedigree registration, then the levy fee is charged to the breeder of the calf. The Society’s ILR2 system automatically collects this fee and credits it back the owner of the levy bull on a quarterly basis.

had semen distributed from them for either pedigree or commercial use are eligible for entry to the scheme. A levy fee is charged for calf registrations from both AI and natural service.

The scheme gives the opportunity for sensible and realistic pricing to both the pedigree breeder and commercial producer, and the opportunity for extended choice and increased use of the given bulls. If you have a bull that you would like to enter onto the scheme, then please email information@britishsimmental.co.uk for an application form and further information. Only bulls that have not

Bulls registered under the Pedigree Bull Levy (Royalty) Scheme are listed below. Members should note that the pedigree registration levy is additional to the purchase of semen and payment must be made to the Society at the time of registration either by direct debit for TelReg/ online, or by cheque for paper registrations. Owners of the Levy Rights receive payment on a quarterly basis from the Society.

*Please note that the entry fee to place a bull on the Society’s Levy (Royalty) Scheme has been reduced from £273 + VAT, to £100+VAT. This fee reduction is applicable from 1st January 2021.

ANIMALS NAME/HERD NO

LEVY OWNER NAME, PHONE, FAX & EMAIL

LEVY FEE (EX VAT)

VAT

TOTAL

Auchorachan Wizard (M072755)

Mr J Wilson Tel: 028 302 63342/61938 Fax: 028 302 67919 Tel No2: 028 406 31863

£30.00

£6.00

£36.00

Ballinalare Farm Galaxy 15 (M089523)

Mr J Wilson Tel: 028 302 63342/61938 Fax: 028 302 67919 Tel No2: 028 406 31863

£25.00

£5.00

£30.00

Banwy Wonderboy (M073205)

M/S J H & V G Wood Tel: 01254 878971 Mobile: 07813 063431 Email: vgwood@tiscali.co.uk

£40.00

£8.00

£48.00

Bel Dhu Capercaillie (M079624)

Mr J Green Tel: 01343 870211 Email: iain@wjjgreen.co.uk

£50.00

£10.00

£60.00

Blackford Falcon (M042486)

Mr J H Ede Tel: 01538 723283 Email: folesimmentals@btinternet.com

£30.00

£6.00

£36.00

Blackford Galaxy (M089467)

Mr M A Barlow Tel: 01772 601403 Mobile: 07921 674041

£60.00

£12.00

£72.00

Blackford Rory (M012204)

Boddington Estates Ltd Tel: 01242 680609 Fax: 01242 680998 Email: manager@ sterlingsimmentals.co.uk

£22.00

£4.40

£26.40

Bruchag Glenfiddich (M090175)

M/S R & P McAlister Tel: 01700 831276 Mobile: 0780 3127073 Email: randpmcalister@ btconnect.com

£37.50

£7.50

£45.00

Camus Beaver (M075223)

Genus Breeding Ltd Tel: 01270 616616

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Camus Brandy (M029502)

Mr J Wilson Tel: 028 302 63342/61938 Fax: 028 302 67919 Tel-Number 2: 028 406 31863

£40.00

£8.00

£48.00

Carnkern Titan (M015902)

William Jones & Son Tel: 028 944 32069

£45.00

£9.00

£54.00

Clonagh Tiger Gallant (I000656)

D & R Durno & Sons Tel: 01807 590213

£40.00

£8.00

£48.00

Coose Gambler (I001762)

Cogent Breeding Ltd Tel: 01244 622000

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Coose Jericho (I001991)

Cogent Breeding Ltd Tel: 01244 622000

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Coose Las Vegas (P) (I002328)

Cogent Breeding Ltd Tel: 01244 622000

£45.00

£9.00

£54.00

Corrick Kentucky Kid (M054467)

P Clements & Partners Tel: 01359 251233 Fax: 01359 251233 Mobile: 07770 773752

£40.00

£8.00

£48.00

Corskie Jeffery (M096178)

Genus Breeding Ltd Tel: 01270 616616

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Darsham Playboy (M061211)

P Clements & Partners Tel: 01359 251233 Fax: 01359 251233 Mobile: 07770 773752

£40.00

£8.00

£48.00

Denizes Exclusive (S002913)

Genus Breeding Ltd Tel: 01270 616616

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Denizes Ibraham (M095584)

Genus Breeding Ltd Tel: 01270 616616

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Denizes Inferno (M095434)

Genus Breeding Ltd Tel: 01270 616616

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Dinton Nautical (M058805)

Genus Breeding Ltd Tel: 01270 616616

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Dirnanean Bradley (M076366)

Mr J Green Tel: 01343 870211 Email: iain@wjjgreen.co.uk

£50.00

£10.00

£60.00

Dirnanean Nugget (M008567)

Moncur Pedigree Herds Mobile: 07768257528 Email: russell@taypack.com

£40.00

£8.00

£48.00

240

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

Drumlone Anchor (M074121)

Mr L A Richardson Tel: 07855 436203 Mr W E & K & M Nelson Tel: 07764895100 (Keith) Email: keithnelson39@tiscali.co.uk

£30.00

£6.00

£36.00

Falondene Cincinnati (M079495)

Cogent Breeding Ltd Tel: 01244 622000

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Garmouth Kingston (M098967)

Genus Breeding Ltd Tel: 01270 616616

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Grangewood Baron (M077594)

Mr & Mrs Ward & Sons Tel: 01555 840497 Email: jward@wardplant.com

£25.00

£5.00

£30.00

Heathbrow Tristar (M067265)

Mrs Hayley Clarke Tel: 07799 693582 Email: info@williamslivestock.com

£33.33

£6.67

£40.00

Heywood Andrew (ET) (S001297)

Mr C J G Clarke Tel: 01473 890287

£25.00

£5.00

£30.00

Hockenhull Maverick (M057803)

Genus Breeding Ltd Tel: 01270 616616

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Keeldrum Clio 11 (M079129)

Genus Breeding Ltd Tel: 01270 616616

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Keeldrum Schubert (M065739)

Genus Breeding Ltd Tel: 01270 616616

£30.00

£6.00

£36.00

Kilbride Farm Comber (M078617)

M/S J H & V G Wood Tel: 01254 878971 Mobile: 07813 063431 Email: vgwood@tiscali.co.uk

£40.00

£8.00

£48.00

Kilbride Farm Delboy (M082204)

Mr R J Boyd Tel: 028 2582 0070 Mobile: 07799 346784

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Kilbride Farm Escalop (M084884)

W H Robson & Sons Tel: 028 933 40304 / 07968 814180 Fax: 028 933 49486 Email: robsons31@btinternet.com

£40.00

£8.00

£48.00

Kilbride Farm Glenhead (M089513)

Mr R J Boyd Tel: 028 2582 0070 Mobile: 07799 346784

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Kilbride Farm Newry (M059151)

W H Robson & Sons Tel: 028 933 40304 / 07968 814180 Fax: 028 933 49486 Email: robsons31@btinternet.com

£40.00

£8.00

£48.00

Losning Iver (P) I001195

Cogent Breeding Ltd Tel: 01244 622000

£30.00

£6.00

£36.00

Mendick Butch (M076345)

Boddington Estates Ltd Tel: 01242 680609 Fax: 01242 680998 Email: manager@ sterlingsimmentals.co.uk

£30.00

£6.00

£36.00

Omorga Baldwin (M076745)

AI Services (NI) Ltd Tel: 02890 833123 or 07799346784

£30.00

£6.00

£36.00

Omorga Isaac (M093767)

AI Services (NI) Ltd Tel: 02890 833123 or 07799346784

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Omorga Prince (M060676)

J L & C J Weatherup Tel: 028 933 40971 Mobile: 07875 728826

£30.00

£6.00

£36.00

Popes Barclay (M078191)

Cogent Breeding Ltd Tel: 01244 622000

£30.00

£6.00

£36.00

Popes Grandslam (M090828)

Cogent Breeding Ltd Tel: 01244 622000

£30.00

£6.00

£36.00

Popes Jameson (M098086)

Cogent Breeding Ltd Tel: 01244 622000

£33.33

£6.67

£40.00

Popes Jasper (M098084)

Cogent Breeding Ltd Tel: 01244 622000

£33.33

£6.67

£40.00

Popes Kontiki (M099054)

Cogent Breeding Ltd Tel: 01244 622000

£33.33

£6.67

£40.00

Popes Laird (M055700)

Mr J Green Tel: 01343 870211 Email: iain@wjjgreen.co.uk

£50.00

£10.00

£60.00

Sacombe Juggernaut (M096599)

Cogent Breeding Ltd Tel: 01244 622000

£33.33

£6.67

£40.00

Sacombe Kestrel (M101305)

Cogent Breeding Ltd Tel: 01244 622000

£33.33

£6.67

£40.00

Shacon Hannibal 16 (S003142)

Mr R J Boyd Tel: 028 2582 0070 Mobile: 07799 346784

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Silver Birch A Mans A Man 09 (S002610)

Cogent Breeding Ltd Tel: 01244 622000

£25.00

£5.00

£30.00

Skerrington Franklyn (M086236)

A J & S D Heath Tel: 01952 541374 Mobile: 07971 814082

£30.00

£6.00

£36.00

Starline Klassik (M054547)

R H Widdicombe Tel: 01803 732277 Fax: 01803 732277 Email: susan.widdicombe@ btconnect.com

£30.00

£6.00

£36.00

Sterling Cotswold 11 (S002721)

Boddington Estates Ltd Tel: 01242 680609 Fax: 01242 680998 Email: manager@ sterlingsimmentals.co.uk

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Sterling Flint (M042435)

P Clements & Partners Tel: 01359 251233 Fax: 01359 251233 Mobile: 07770 773752

£40.00

£8.00

£48.00

Sterling Gino 15 (M088452)

Jake Gregory Tel 07712463354

£33.33

£6.67

£40.00

Sterling Viking 2 (M069308)

Boddington Estates Ltd Tel: 01242 680609 Fax: 01242 680998 Email: manager@ sterlingsimmentals.co.uk

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Woodhall Ferrari (M086256)

Cogent Breeding Ltd Tel: 01244 622000

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Wroxall Cocker-Leeky-Soup (PP) (M080195

CH Evans & Son Mobile 0774 777 3815

£40.00

£8.00

£48.00

The Review 2020

241

MEMBERSHIP FEES Due to the Society’s charitable status the Membership Subscription fees are not subject to VAT on the full amount and therefore the proportional breakdown has been clearly stated.

FEE £

VAT AT 20%

TOTAL

Initial Joining Fee & Prefix Registration

£44.68

£8.94

£53.62

Full Annual proportioned £24.68 zero rated VAT

£24.68

£0.00

£24.68

Full Annual proportioned £35.00 plus VAT @ 20% for DD Members

£35.00

£7.00

Full Annual Subscription Total is split into Vatable and Non Vatable totals £42.00 £66.68 Full Annual proportioned £40.00 plus VAT @ 20% Non DD Members

£40.00

£8.00

£48.00

Full Annual proportioned £24.68 zero rated VAT

£24.68

£0.00

£24.68

£72.68

Life Membership Total is £850.00 & is split into Vatable & Non Vatable Totals ( Joining Fee & Prefix Registration included ) Life Membership proportioned £23.10 plus VAT @ 20%

£23.10

£4.62

£27.72

Life Membership proportioned £822.28 zero rated for VAT

£822.28

£0.00

£822.28

£850.00

Associate Membership Total is split into Vatable & Non Vatable Totals Associate Membership proportioned £6.34 plus VAT @ 20% for DD Members

£6.34

£1.27

£7.61

Associate Membership proportioned £24.68 zero rated for VAT

£24.68

£0.00

£24.68

£32.29

Associate Membership proportioned 11.34 plus VAT @ 20% for Non DD Members

£11.34

£2.27

£13.61

Associate Membership proportioned £24.68 zero rated for VAT

£24.68

£0.00

£24.68

Overseas ( including Republic of Ireland ) Zero rated for VAT

£33.60

£0.00

£33.60

Initial Joining fee & Prefix Registration

£10.72

£2.14

£12.86

Annual Subscription ( Zero rated for VAT )

£21.00

£0.00

£38.29 REGISTERING YOUNG MEMBERSHIP ( Max age limit 25yrs ) £21.00 £33.86 NON REGISTERING YOUNG MEMBERS ( Max age limit 25yrs ) Annual Subscription

£5.25

£0.00

£5.25

Young Life Membership Total is £378.58 & is split into Vatable & Non Vatable Totals ( Joining Fee & Prefix Registration included ) Young Life Membership proportioned £23.10 plus VAT @ 20%

£23.10

£4.62

Life Membership proportioned £350.86 zero rated for VAT

£350.86

£0.00

£350.86

£378.58

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

£30.00

£6.00

£36.00

£26.00

£5.20

£31.20

Birth Notify within 27 days of birth - Paper / Tel-Reg / On-line

£8.00

£1.60

£9.60

£27.72

REGISTRATIONS

£55.51

£11.10

£65.41

£250.00

£50.00

£300.00

£400.00

£80.00

£480.00

Embryo Registration On Paper

£35.00

£7.00

£42.00

Embryo Registration By Tel-Reg

£30.00

£6.00

£36.00

Embryo Registration On-line

£26.00

£5.20

£31.20

Graded Registrations On Paper

£22.89

£4.58

£27.47

Graded Registrations by Tel-Reg ( Cannot be processed on-line )

£17.53

£3.51

£21.04

Performance Recording Records / Steers

£1.05

£0.21

£1.26

Birth Notification can ONLY be processed 27 days from the date of birth, no late Birth Notifications will be accepted. Calves born dead should be notified free of charge. Calves sired by a breed other than Simmental should be notified as Performance only at the rate of £1.26. We encourage all Performance recording members to record all births but please note Performance only records CANNOT be taken up to full registration at any time. Freemartins should be Birth Notified within 27 days of birth and must be registered within 12-36 months maximum. Please contact the BSCS for further information. 242

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

Amended or Replacement Pedigree Certificate

£5.00

£1.00

£6.00

DNA Typing kit per animal

£27.50

£5.50

£33.00

Polled DNA test

£5.50

£1.10

£6.60

Embryo Flush Form (ET1) price per form

£10.00

£2.00

£12.00

Imported Embryo Fee

£50.00

£10.00

£60.00

Importation ( Including Republic of Ireland ) to be entered into the British Simmental Herdbook

£50.00

£10.00

£60.00

£16.53

£3.31

£19.84

Graded

£5.36

£1.07

£6.43

Bull used from a Non Member ( Commercial Man ) ( including semen purposes )

£16.53

£3.31

£19.84

CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP ( Payable by Purchaser ) Sale / Private Purebred

* Transfer of Ownership form/s must be completed for privately sold animals * Exportation Certificate ( Embryo Purposes ) Exportation Certificate ( Live Animal Purposes ) UPGRADING ( Grade inspection of animal on farm )

£10.00

£2.00

£12.00

£18.50

£3.70

£22.20

Price on Application

£100.00

£20.00

£120.00

£54.96

£10.99

£65.95

10%

ROYALTY SIRE Registration of Levy Sire Annual Fee to Maintain Levy ( The Annual Levy Fee is invoiced from 1 January following the year of Registration ) st

Administration Fee ( per Levy Registration )

LATE REGISTRATION MATRIX • The following pricing matrix and late penalties will apply to all members who are registering calves under these circumstances. • Calves not registered within the 27 days after date of birth are subject to the fee schedule below. • Cattle may be registered after 12 months of age, subject to proven DNA parentage testing. • Please note the fee that is quoted includes the parentage test for the calf only. The DNA typing of the Sire and Dam is £27.50 + VAT, if not already on file • Please contact the Registration Department to process any registrations over twelve months of age as this cannot be processed on-line. 1-3 Months

4-6 Months

7-9 Months

10-12 Months

Registrations that are received after 27 days of birth will then fall into the pricing matrix for late fees

Birth Notification fee £9.60 plus the 12 month registration fee of £65.41

Birth Notification fee £9.60 plus the 12 month registration fee of £65.41 plus late penalty fee of £18.90 ( £15.75 + VAT )

Birth Notification fee of £9.60 plus the 12 month registration fee of £65.41 plus late penalty fee of £37.80 ( £31.50 + VAT)

TOTAL

£19.03 will be added to the cost of Registration

£75.01

£93.91

£112.81

Over 12 Months Previously Birth Notified

Over 12 Months NOT Previously Birth Notified

£250 + VAT = £300

£400 + VAT = £480

This includes the cost of the DNA test for the calf. Sire & Dam tests are not included and are £27.50 + VAT each if the profile is not already on our file.

This includes the cost of the DNA test for the calf. Sire & Dam tests are not included and are £27.50 + VAT each if the profile is not already on our file. The Review 2020

243

ADVERTISING INDEX Advertiser

Prefix

Page no

Advertiser

Prefix Stralongford

AB Europe

MR J J Hanna

AI Services

184

Harbro

Page no 57 210

Mr V C Bailey

Mixbury Hall

Miss J M Hawkins

Chates

184

Mr M A Barlow

Denizes

238

Mr WD & JD Hazelton

Ranfurly

148-149

219

A J & S D Heath

Eaton

Barlow Trailers

201

F I & E J Barnes & Sons

Highcross

165

Hi Health

G Behan

Clonagh

185

Mr D C Houldey

Manor Park

169

Mr & Mrs P B & J A Borlase

Sacombe

103

J & G Houliston

Saltire

235

Mr R J Boyd

Slievenagh

190

Mr A King

Wolfstar

163

Mr D Lowry

Keeldrum

191

Team

Caisley Tags

201

Mr G L Clark

Broombrae

Mr R J MacGregor

Andrew W Clarke

Breaghey

186

MacGregor photography

McCartneys

234

48-49

Cogent

160

Cornwall Club

27, 69

Crystalyx

Richard McCulloch

Overhill House

175

Mr N F McGowan

Incheoch

Mr A Davies

Hirwaun

185

Cecil and Scott McIlwaine

Corrick

171

Mr A G Davies

Welston

225

Mr & Mrs L Moffat

Innerwick

225

Mr & Mrs L J Dowley

Theberton

Mr H J W & J C Moore

Omorga

224

D & R Durno & Sons

Auchorachan

Mr & Mrs Mark Evans

Dewisland

C H Evans & Son

Wroxall

ISBC

122

NWF

Mr & Mrs J Olds

Bosahan

OSBC

Mr L D Quarm

Annick

161 34-35

Farmers Guardian

214

W H Robson & Sons

Kilbride Farm

Genus

187

D A & L A Sapsed

Heathbrow

Ghost Design

205

Reece and Andrew Simmers

Backmuir

117

Drumsleed

190

Jim & Patricia Goldie

Newbiemains

18-19

Mr G W Smith

WJ & J Green

Corskie

ISFC

Spread-a-bale

Mr Gregory

Kurlycoat

SRUC vet services

Mr R J Grenham

Boars Head

177

R & L Storer Smith

Storersmith

Mr S A Gummow

Killiworgie

Strathisla Farms

Strathisla

116

Jonathan Sinclair Gunn

Mavsey

Mr W S Stronach

Islavale

Dafydd Gwynne

Castlegwynne

114

Mr G Towers

Tidkin

235

Messrs N & N Gwynne

Chestermann

115

United Auctions

Frank Gwynne

Castlewigg

114

C W C Waters

Goldcross

184

Mr R S & M E Weatherup

Roma

M/S J H & V G Wood

Popes

B R Wynter

Bolankin

H&H Mrs V Hall

244

Chegwidden

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

187 163

234

5 186

APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP (Please write clearly in BLOCK CAPITALS) NAME: (All Corporate bodies must have a nominee)

ADDRESS:

TELEPHONE:

POSTCODE:

(Include STD Code)

EMAIL:

MOBILE:

If you wish to join as a FLECKVIEH member, PLEASE TICK - Full Membership Only *Young Membership Only - Date Of Birth

Only FULL/LIFE members can register cattle, enter Society Sales, vote in Society business, or be elected to Council. The Society year runs from 1st August to 31st July. Members joining in June and July will have their subscription rolled over into the next year.

MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES

PLEASE TICK

Joining Fee & Prefix Registration Fee £44.68 + £8.94 VAT

£53.62

Full Annual Subscription £42.00 + £24.68 for DD Members

£66.68

£72.68

£850.00

£32.29

£38.29

£33.60

Joining Fee & Prefix Registration £10.72 + £2.14 VAT

£12.86

Annual Subscription (zero rated for VAT) £21.00

£21.00

Life Young Membership (VAT on £23.10 only) £373.96 + £4.62 VAT

£378.58

£5.25

(£24.68 @ zero rated VAT, £35.00 @ 20% rated VAT)

Full Annual Subscription £48.00 + £24.68 for Non DD Members (£24.68 @ zero rated VAT, £40.00 @ 20% rated VAT)

Life Membership (VAT on £23.10 only) £845.38 + £4.62 VAT (Inclusive of Joining & Prefix Registration Fee)

Associate Membership £24.68 + £7.61 for DD Members (24.68 @ Zero Rate VAT, £6.34 @ 20% rated VAT)

Associate Membership £24.68 + £13.61 for Non DD Members (24.68 @ Zero Rate VAT, £11.34 @ 20% rated VAT)

Overseas £33.60 (zero rated for VAT) *YOUNG MEMBERSHIP MAXIMUM AGE LIMIT 25 YEARS

NON REGISTERING YOUNG MEMBERS (MAX AGE LIMIT 25 YRS) Annual Subscription £5.25 (zero rated for VAT)

Due to the Society’s charitable status the Membership Subscription fees are not subject to VAT on the full amount and therefore the proportional breakdown has been clearly stated. The Review 2020

245

PREFIX REGISTRATION - HERD NAME - ONE WORD ONLY - MAXIMUM 16 LETTERS: Please give 2 Choices:

1st Choice:

2nd Choice:

UK Herd Number

GIFT AID The British Simmental Cattle Society Ltd is a registered charity and as such if you are a UK Taxpayer, have a membership subscription with The Society then you could increase the value of every £1.00 you have subscribed in membership fees to be worth £1.28, by joining the Gift Aid Scheme, and it’s at no extra cost to you.

GIFT AID DECLARATION I want the Society to treat all subscriptions and \or donations I have made since 6 April 2000, and all subscriptions and\or donations made from the date of this declaration until I notify you otherwise as Gift Aid.

SIGNED:

DATE:

NOTES 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

You must pay an amount of income tax and\or capital gains tax at least equal to the tax that the charity reclaims on your donations in the tax year [currently 28p for each £1 you give]. You can cancel this declaration at any time by notifying the charity. If in the future your circumstances change and you no longer pay tax on your income and capital gains equal to the tax that the charity (The Society) reclaims, you can cancel your declaration [see note1]. If you pay tax at the higher rate you can claim further tax relief in your Self-Assessment tax return. If you are unsure whether your subscription and\or donations qualify for Gift Aid tax relief, ask the charity (The Society), or ask your local tax office for leaflet IR 65. Please notify the Society if you change your name or address.

DECLARATION I HEREBY APPLY FOR MEMBERSHIP OF THE ABOVE SOCIETY & CONFIRM 1. That I am the owner of at least one Pure Bred Simmental Animal (Full Membership only). 2. That I will during the period of my Membership comply with the rules and By-Laws from time to time made by the Society’s Council of Management and that my membership is subject to approval by the Council of Management.

SIGNED:

DATE:

SIGNED:

DATE: (When membership is in two names, please ensure that both signatures appear on the application form)

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www.britishsimmental.co.uk

AUCHORACHAN

HERCULES SEMEN FOR SALE Sire: Auchorachan ACDC Dam: South Park King Kong

SOME OF OUR HERCULES PROGENY AUCHORACHAN AUTUMN Overall Champion, Scottish Simmental Club’s Virtual show, Summer 2020. Her Calf AUCHORACHAN LUXURY NANNY, a daughter of Hercules.

AUCHORACHAN HILLY35, BY HERCULES Class winner in the Scottish Simmental Online Show

D&R DURNO & SONS AUCHORACHAN, GLENLIVET, BALLINDALLOCH, BANFFSHIRE. AB37 9DN 07718467868 michaeldurno@gmail.com CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK

@AUCHORACHANSIMMENTALS

SEMEN AVAILABLE FROM: AUROCH HUDSON P. AND TEAM FERGUS

GREENCAP KANE New Junior Herd Sire Purchased for 9,000gns October 2020

WROXALL SIMMENTALS Breeding Tomorrow’s Cattle Today

COOSE GAMBLER P VOTED THE RESERVE MALE CHAMPION OF EUROPE 2020

www .wroxallsimmentals.co.uk Email. info@wroxallsimmentals.co.uk

Tel. 0774 777 3815

Visitors welcome by appointment

C.H. Evans & Son Abbey Farm Wroxall Warwickshire CV35 7ND

2020 50th Anniversary Simmental Review

Articles inside

Sales

Pedigree Bull Levy Semen (Royalty) Scheme

Harbro Advertorial

Canadian Simmental

Dansk Simmental

Simmental NZ

South West Simmental Club Report

NI Simmental Cattle Breeders’ Club Report

North East Club Report

Ballystrone Herd Feature

Midlands Club Report

East Anglian Simmental Club Report

Regional Club Area Officers

Centre West Club Report

Welston Herd Feature

Simmental Young Members

Spotlight on Cumbria

Sacombe Herd Feature

News

News

News

Theberton Herd Feature

Council Members

Bunchrew Farm Feature

Bowley Herd Feature

Golden Cow

President’s Message