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Cover photo: Sian Morgan with NWS Francisco Goya at the BAS National Show 2023 ©Ingrid Weel Photography
6 Retiring from public life
The Vauxhall City Farm alpacas, Ben and Jerry retire from public life after 17 years.
8 25 years of Alpaca magazine
26 Invest in grass machinery
A range of grassland machinery solutions to suit every budget, acreage and desired result.
The coronation of King Charles will be a visual display of royal history and pageantry with the Kings attire being an essential element of the show.
28 Don't bury your investment
A solution to your ground issues with game-changing Mudcontrol slabs.
10 BAS Board blog
The BAS goes to The World Alpaca Expo and Conference, Graz and Alpaca Show Sud, Hohenlohe.
14 BAS National Show
The National Show in Telford was a success. The Show Committee worked hard this year to produce a cracking weekend.
30 Pre-birthing tips
Be prepared.
32 Shearing tips from the vet
We look at the opportunities that shearing brings to carry out a check over on each alpaca.
42
Using commercially available software the coronation crown has been simplified for machine or hand knitting.
43 New books
Two new books will be promoted at this year’s Wonderwool Wales, the award-winning show that celebrates all that’s great about Welsh wool and natural fibres.
44 Craft & Create
24 Grassland management
Grassland is something more than an area for the animals to exercise; it is the most valuable source of cheap food there is.
36 New and improved Wool Testing Authority launched their new and improved website in late 2022, with the new facility to book and pre-pay for fleece tests.
An enthusiastic band of crafters gathered together at Essex Young Farmers Club Centre to celebrate the joys of working with alpaca fibre.
45 Dates for your diary
48 New member ‘Seven days a week, 52 weeks a year with the odd day off for good behaviour’. Carol Kirkwood shares her thoughts and feelings on keeping and breeding alpacas.
Spring and early summer are two of the most exciting seasons as the year opens up to long days and light nights, a green wonderland of grass and new leaves and of course, new life, with crias making their appearance.
It’s fascinating to see your breeding programme paying off in terms of quality, and it is the time to make more plans for the future. Shearing is also imminent and with that comes fleece evaluation and that too impacts on your future breeding plans. I’ve been learning about ‘noodling’ (see details of a course in June later on in the magazine, courtesy of HOEaG). I can imagine how good it would be to be able to unwrap a fleece that you
have stored away with this method, intact and easily identifiable, whether you are planning to show it, spin it or get it processed. Better than fishing round in a bag where it appears to have grown another life and twisted itself to be almost unrecognisable!
So I hope you enjoy the next few months and I certainly intend to do so. But do remember to send me your spring and summer photos, reports and views. This magazine is for you, and I want to hear from you. Whatever you do with your alpacas, let’s reflect your news and views in your magazine, Alpaca. Look out for the Summer issue of Alpaca published on 25 July and let us have your contributions by 19 June.
Interest in alpacas across the UK continues to grow. There are several measures that show this to be the case. The number of BAS members increased again over the last year topping 2000. The introduction of a junior member category has also gone well with 40 junior members. The 18 to 26 year-olds benefit from reduced registration fees and discounts on BAS education courses.
The number of alpaca walking and trekking businesses is also increasing year-on-year which means more members of the public get to meet an alpaca. After the national lockdowns many trekking businesses were inundated with enquiries, which was good for them and reflected a public need to get out and about.
Although not a strictly accurate measure of popularity the number of celebrity owners and alpaca appearances on the TV has also increased. Dame Kelly Holmes has alpacas and led the discussion on Loose Women recently
when Anne and Mike Shaw took a couple of their alpacas into the studio. The late Paul O’Grady also kept alpaca on his small holding in Kent. Alpacas have featured on This Morning with Holly and Phil (not sure Phil totally enjoyed the experience!), This Farming Life, Escape to the Country, The Farmers Country Show Down and Countryfile to mention some, but by no means all.
BAS education courses continue to be popular with courses being well subscribed from introductory level to advanced, including some judge training. The course dates and venues are advertised in the Weekly Newsletter so keep an eye on that for the latest opportunities to learn. The online version of the Introduction to alpaca assessment has proved popular with many members so we will run that again alongside some face to face meetings.
All the best of for a good summer and trouble free, shearing, birthing and mating.
The BAS is launching its third UK National Alpaca Farm Day to encourage anyone and everyone to come and meet alpacas. Last year this was very successful and all who took part found it an enjoyable and worthwhile experience. Visitors were enthralled by the alpacas and many were considering becoming alpaca owners.
The aim is to have dozens of alpaca herds open to the public on the same day(s) this year on Saturday 2 September and Sunday 3 September 2023.
All interested BAS members can register their event with BAS and have it listed on the website. The size and type of event varies according to the BAS members farm and capacity. It might be simple or “all singing and dancing”, but all are welcomed by the visitors and gives alpaca owners a chance to promote not only the animals but also the wonderful fleeces and fibre.
To qualify for BAS promotion entry to the event must be free. Charging for merchandise, refreshments and alpaca experiences is fine.
Perilla Ltd, founded 17 years ago, has built up a reputation as the foremost supplier of Alpaca socks and other luxury items. The current owners have decided that they wish to take retirement and are therefore offering the business for sale. Perilla has a trademark for “alpaca socks”.
The business is fully transferable; the assets are Goodwill, a well-designed Shopify platform website, marketing materials, customer database, suppliers and substantial stock offered. In short, everything to run the business other than premises.
The business has built a reputation for affordable luxury products, as evidenced by 5-star reviews on TrustPilot with a wide range of colours and styles. Primarily, but not exclusively marketing the products online, a mass of data on various forms of advertising has been built up to assist sales strategy moving forward. There are wholesale opportunities too. It would sit nicely alongside other businesses offering luxury apparel or as a small concern to be run in its current form.
For further information and interest in the business, please email bwphipps@btinternet.com
Financial information, amongst other data, is available but will only be provided after receiving a signed NDA.
Vauxhall City Farm’s famous alpacas, Ben & Jerry left last year for a quieter life in the countryside on Wednesday 23 February 2022. During their 17 years on the farm Ben & Jerry have starred in a Star Wars film, hob-nobbed with royalty, and featured on the BBC multiple times.
Ben, Jerry, and their late friend Tom, came to the farm in 2005, and were soon a star attraction at the Summer Sundae festivals on Clapham Common, run by Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream. This early taste of fame obviously left an impression, as in the years since they turned their toes to adverts, TV spots and supporting parts in films and television. They reached the giddy heights of Hollywood in 2015 when they featured in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, and a 2020 meeting with Prince Edward and Sophie, Countess of Wessex, which made national news.
Monica Tyler, the CEO of Vauxhall City Farm said: “Ben and Jerry’s contribution to Vauxhall City Farm has been incredible. They were some of the most popular animals here on the farm, and our alpaca Meet & Greet experiences were booked up months in advance.
They arrived a short time later to take over the role, and have fast become three of the most popular animals here at Vauxhall City Farm. They are now taking part in the VIP Meet & Greet experiences and mobile farms in the spring and summer this year are booking up fast. All three are very friendly and affectionate, and love getting grass nuts from our visitors!
It’s lovely that these beautiful animals can be seen and understood right in the middle of London where education on farm animals is top of the agenda for city farms. Their beauty and uses can be enjoyed by so many people – and it appears that the boys enjoy meeting their public.
Vauxhall City Farm is one of the oldest and most central of London’s City Farms, and although there is wealth in the surrounding area, the residents of Lambeth face many challenges, including low income and poverty of opportunity. VCF uses its animals as vehicles for education and change, providing local people with experiences that might otherwise preclude them. The farm also provides a vital green space in a heavily built up area, an escape from city life, and a chance to relax and reconnect with nature.
Spring 1998 saw the arrival of the Euro currency in Europe, Microsoft was the biggest company in the world, the second Harry Potter book Chamber of Secrets came out, Dana International won the Eurovision Song Contest and Carrie Bradshaw of Sex in the City may have worn Alpaca fibre in her high fashion romp on our screens. But more importantly Joy Whitehead (of Bozedown) and Lyn Scott put out the first issue of Alpaca magazine.
Joy Whitehead recalls that the first thing they needed to do was to get an ISBN number, and so she found out how to do that and had the ISBN number right from the first issue. She said: ”I have no memory of how we managed to do the layout though. BAS membership and membership fees were quite small in those days and the magazine was free to members, so we were on a tight budget!”
In that very first issue Pat Bentley who was Chair at that time said in her introduction: "Those of us who have entered alpaca ownership, understand that it is not a quick fix or an easy option – there is much work to be done and it is vitally important to plan for the future. Long term certainty lies in the production of animals which will produce high quality fibre in increasing quantities in all the colours. The only means we have of achieving this is through the careful breeding of the
alpacas we have so that each year the offspring outshine their parents.
"The time has come when owner breeders should establish reliable records, weighing, testing and diligently recording everything of moment. The spiral of quality must be ever upwards and incomes will follow (the opposite is also true). Not all animals are perfect and not all alpaca fibre is the heavenly stuff we envisage when we trumpet the glories of alpaca fibre, but each year we will get nearer the ideal."
The first issue covered feeding, handling and the use of Vitamin D, marketing the fleece –and a piece on alpaca fibre by Charles Dickens – yes really the Charles Dickens – which was in the archives of Shipley College.
As Alpaca has continued across 25 years, the passion to improve fleece has continued and the careful breeding has brought fine fleece in striking colours. The alpaca has also found other places in UK life with a natural aptitude for bringing calmness to troubled souls, giving
pleasure to many with alpaca walks and as much loved elegant and beautiful pets. The alpaca has certainly found its way into the hearts of so many people and there is no doubt that when people see them, they get pleasure from their striking looks.
Alpaca magazine has appeared throughout the year, over the subsequent years. Alongside the development of all aspects of alpaca keeping, the magazine has given a forum to new ideas, supported good welfare and management and kept the importance of fibre production as one of its main themes.
It's time to celebrate its success and say a huge thank you to everyone who has contributed to this magazine and cared about its future.
Did you know that magazine is the Arabic name for a storehouse? So appropriate for the wealth of information and inspiration in the last 25 years.
After several years of Covid-19, Brexit and various other world events the board felt it was time that all of our members should again be represented in Europe. Four board members agreed to travel to Austria to represent the British Alpaca Society at the World Alpaca Conference. Our goals were to reconnect with many of the European Associations and owners, dispel myths about the health of the national herd and to kickstart exports once more.
On a chilly morning a pre-arranged rendezvous in Kent saw a swift re-packing of Neil’s van before, we headed to the Eurotunnel. Travelling abroad with commercial equipment required export documentation to be in hand and off we headed. At check-in we were escorted off site by security and headed back to Ashford – a 24 mile round trip to acquire internal customs export stamps for the equipment we were taking – the BAS stand and associated bags, magazines etc. Once stamped we embarked the train and some 35 minutes later, we were in France with a very, very long drive ahead of us (1,744 miles round trip from Calais). We managed to experience many of the possible weather conditions, including substantial amounts of snow, sun, rain, sleet and arrived in Graz after some 18 hours of driving, including a brief overnight stop. We received a very warm welcome from other delegates, trade stand holders and alpaca owners alike.
The Austrians certainly know how to put on fantastic show which was held in an easily accessible, well-appointed venue. Kate, Elaine with Roger arrived later on Friday once we had had the pleasure of trying to put the
BAS stand together! One of our neighbouring trade stand holders, took pity on us, (battling with a very strange contraption) and kindly stepped in to assist for which we were very appreciative and we established a friendly German/UK relationship from the start.
There was an estimated footfall in the region of over 5,000 people over the three days achieved by the show organisers and venue. The entry fee was set at €17 per person with children at a reduced rate. To put this into perspective, the average hourly employment rate for Graz is €23 per hour, just short of €50,000 annual wage. We witnessed significant amounts of money exchanging hands.
During the conference, there was the opportunity (for an additional cost) to attend seminars. However, there was very little time to do so, and in fact, Emma was the only team member able to attend the Michells seminar presented by Raul C Rivera Velasquez on fibre production and processing in Peru which was presented in English and very informative.
Meanwhile there was the showing of alpacas (judged by Mr Robin Nasemann, and Dr Ritu Huayta) to one side of the hall with educational oral reasoning given in several languages. The fleece show was being judged live (judge Dean Ford and Mr Aturo Pena) as an educational opportunity for many to learn about the assessment of characteristics, attributes and faults. Again, translators were giving a running commentary throughout. Huge crowds were drawn to both learning opportunities and all judges were highly approachable to converse with and learn from, freely sharing information and knowledge.
>> Continued on next page
WONDERFUL STUDS. MAGNIFICENT GENETICS. HOME TO LEGENDARY CAMBRIDGE SAMSON. INCREDIBLE FLEECE.
• All our alpacas are BAS registered and microchipped.
• Stud males and junior herd sires
• Breeding females
• Full support for new owners
• Veterinary health certificates
• Farm set up advice
THE HIGH QUALITY OF OUR ALPACAS CONTINUES TO BE FURTHER DEVELOPED THROUGH A CAREFUL BREEDING PROGRAMME.
LacockAlpaca. Oakley Farm House. Lower Woodrow. SN12 7RB. Mob: 07976 985428
Website: www.LacockAlpaca.com
We were fortunate enough to secure an invitation to the buffet and fashion show on Friday evening, which showcased some beautiful attire from around the world both in pure and blended alpaca yarns from the top fashion houses who produce alpaca garments. Thank you Amanda (VandenBosch). This was followed by a showing of Vicuna Salvation – the incredible conservation story of a magnificent species that produces the finest, most expensive fibre in the world and the empowerment of an indigenous community that lives 15,000 feet above sea level in the Peruvian mountains. Mike Saffley took questions from the audience afterwards (www.quechuabenefit.org).
We said farewell to Graz late on the Sunday afternoon for the long drive home. During our time in Graz we made good contacts with breeders, judges, other associations and delegates who were very interested in purchasing alpacas from the UK to establish herds where none or few currently exist. All those we spoke with expressed a keenness to work with UK breeders, to be able to sell and share genetics in an attempt to reopen the import/export markets.
Currently many European associations implement strict restrictions on European herd owners who import alpacas from the UK. We were able to provide information leaflets in both English and German about exporting alpacas from the UK into Europe as well as statistical evidence of the health status of the national herd in the UK. This information was well received and accepted. Further, the BAS was invited on a reciprocal no attendance fee basis to attend one of Germany’s national shows – Germany has four associations – and Simon Klink attended the BAS National Show along with other (prospective) owners who travelled from Europe.
The board agreed that a further presence in Europe could only enhance the good groundwork achieved in Graz. Some three weeks later, the familiar faces of Neil and Emma retraced steps back to Hohenlohe (a 920 mile round trip from Calais) – a rural agricultural livestock venue in the middle of nowhere. Again, the format of the show was very much around the shopping experience of alpaca goods – finished products, yarns and goods as well as an array of husbandry items, local produce and demonstrations. There was no indication of sponsors and, as in Graz, the alpacas were housed inside an adjoining building and accessed the show ring via a one-way system to be judged by Jenny Jackson (Australia). As this was a smaller show than the conference, Emma and Neil were able to spend more time conversing with breeders, understanding the politics of the German industry, as well as learning of the complete restriction of alpacas entering Germany at this time. Sadly, due to this restriction, the organisers made us aware that there were fewer exhibitors than in previous years; however, the German breeders made up for that and were able to enter greater numbers than usual.
At both shows tote bags were handed out to breeders and visitors containing the BAS information document (in German and English) as well as information leaflets on herds, products and services from those members who wished to be included.
Again, good relationships were formed, and it is hoped that the BAS can initiate a future European conference for all the associations to meet face-to-face to try and further dispel concerns over import/exports and to aid the relaxation of some of the restrictions on purchases from the UK based on statistics, the high bio-security and health checks required by herds exporting to Europe. Grateful thanks must also go to Michelle Payne and Kate Ryan who each travelled to one event. Kate is a BAS young member as well as West Wight‘s farm manager and is engaged with the younger owners and breeders.
European shows centre their alpaca events very much around the products that are produced from alpaca fibre. Trade stand holders varied from wholesalers of Peruvian goods to wines, locally grown potatoes to soaps which all contributed to the huge footfall achieved by both events. The strangest alpaca related products that we found was an alpaca felt pillow filled with dried grass! Certainly, both events had been widely advertised and visitors travelled many miles to attend.
We weren’t happy with the worrying amount of man-made chemicals given to animals on a daily basis. So, we herbalists, we created a completely natural range of ways to support animal intestinal hygiene. And we’re really
decided to do something about it. proud of it.
Organic and made from 100% natural active ingredients, Verm-X Original can be fed to your camelids all year round and is safe for breeding mothers.
Vet approved
100% natural Intestinal control
al herbs
A herbal supplement to restore and maintain gut vitality
The National Show in Telford was a success. The show committee worked hard this year to produce a cracking weekend. Thanks to all involved; without the wider pool of volunteers playing their part it would not happen.
One advantage of going back to the same venue is that there is some familiarity with the layout, and you can accumulate “learnings” from year to year, which lead to improvements. This year, for example, the unloading procedures on Friday went very smoothly. Everyone got their alpacas to their pens in good time and the colour checking went well.
The National Show dinner on Saturday night included a charity auction for
the Quechua Benefit. BAS members were very generous with their donations and their purchase of the lots. The final amount raised came to £33,000. The showing of the film Vicuna: survival of the finest certainly did a great job of explaining the humanitarian and conservation work of the Quechua Benefit. It is a account of a 30 year conservation story that has increased the wild vicuna population from 5,000 to half a million and benefitted the people who live where the Vicuna live.
Watch out for 2024: March 22, 23 and 24 at Telford International
Popham Suri Armstrong
All our stock are British Alpaca Society registered with full documentation
Pregnant females with cria at foot
Live cria guarantees provided when purchasing pregnant females
Discount packages available Full documentation on the medical and health history of each animal
Halter trained Stud male services (All studs are either Supreme Champions/Champions/ Reserve Champions in either UK or New Zealand)
Pet males
quite
as
pronking
Having worn the hat of exhibitor and show organiser at the BAS National Halter Show for many years, it was good to see things from the judge's perspective. Certainly from this viewpoint, the show was extremely well run, with alpacas always waiting in the collecting ring ready to be judged. Stewarding was excellent and executed with good humour and a constant smile.
The quality at the show was high amongst both breeds and through the different age groups and co-judging the show was a great experience.
My advice to exhibitors would be to remember to walk behind your alpacas and observe from different angles to identify any potential conformational issues before entering. Also to practice having your alpaca inspected, to help avoid that alpaca who just loves to sit down as soon as the
judge gets hands-on. However, overall the alpacas were very well behaved in the ring and they were a pleasure to judge.
It was, I believe, another very successful BAS National Show.
Suri White Male
Champion: Evolution The Viscount (BNBAS16555) owned by Alpaca Evolution Ltd
Reserve: Evolution Cool Your Jets (BNBAS14400) owned by Alpaca Evolution Ltd
Suri White Female
Champion Dark Sky Kahlua (UKBAS39990)
owned by Dark Sky (Mr Tom Scott and Mrs Wendy Scott)
Reserve: Southern Sands Sweet As Candy (UKBAS40213) owned by Southern Sands (Mr Ben Robinson)
Suri Light Male
Champion: Popham Suri Armstrong (UKBAS42202)
owned by Southern Sands (Mr Ben Robinson)
Reserve: Lane House Zephyr (BNBAS15967) owned by Lane House (Mrs D Lane and Miss J Lane)
Suri Light Female
Champion: C-S Alpacas Happy (UKBAS42441) owned by C-S Alpacas (Mrs Julia Jack Corrigan-Stuart and Mr Jack Corrigan-Stuart)
Reserve: Lane House Belle of The Ball (UKBAS39821) owned by Lane House (Mrs D Lane and Miss J Lane)
Suri Fawn Male
Champion: Winsaula Trendseber (BNBAS16010)
owned by Winsaula (Mr Mark and Paula Winsor)
Reserve: Southern Sands Prince Caspian (BNBAS14992) owned by Southern Sands (Mr Ben Robinson)
Suri Fawn Female
Champion: Brackenfield Miracle (UKBAS40822)
owned by Brackenfield (Mr Andrew Mccormick and Sarah Jane McRow)
Reserve: Wellow Birthday Girl (UKBAS42016)
owned by Wellow (Mr Neil Payne and Mrs Michelle Payne)
Suri Brown Male
Champion: Springfarm King Arthur (BNBAS14302) owned by Springfarm (Mr Chris and Mrs Vicki Agar) Reserve: Winsaula Unforgoben (BNBAS14896) owned by Winsaula (Mr Mark Winsor and Mrs Paula Winsor)
Suri Brown Female
Champion: Dark Sky Hnoss (UKBAS42357) owned by Dark Sky (Mr & Mrs Tom and Wendy Scott) Reserve: Wellow Garlic Queen (UKBAS42023) owned by Wellow (Mr Neil Payne and Mrs Michelle Payne)
Suri Modern Grey Male
Champion: Snowshill Leonides (BNBAS15044) owned by Snowshill (Mr Roger and Mrs Mary Mount) Reserve: Winsaula The Influencer (BNBAS16012) owned by Winsaula (Mr Mark Winsor and Mrs Paula Winsor)
Suri Modern Grey Female
Champion: Snowshill Aerin (UKBAS42308) owned by Snowshill (Mr Roger Mount and Mrs Mary Mount)
Suri Grey Male
Champion: Lane House Grey Masquerade (BNBAS15971) owned by Lane House (Mrs D Lane and Miss J Lane Dam) Reserve: Park Side Invergowrie (BNBAS16565) owned by Mrs Vivien L P Hamilton
Suri Grey Female
Champion: Lane House Mystical Maeve (UKBAS42084) owned by Lane House (Mrs D Lane and Miss J Lane) Reserve: Winsaula Oscuro's Serendipity (UKBAS42102) owned by Winsaula (Mr Mark Winsor and Mrs Paula Winsor)
Barbara Hetherington was one of the four Judges. She gives her view from inside the ring.
Suri Male Black
Champion: Faraway Dusty Bun (BNBAS15884) owned by Faraway (Mrs Nikki Hayton)
Reserve: Snowshill Gallifrey (BNBAS15048) owned by Snowshill (Mr Roger Mount and Mrs Mary Mount)
Suri Black Female
Champion: Aylswood Gardner's Mollie (UKBAS41675) owned by Aylswood (Ailene Charlton)
Reserve: Faraway Irma Vep (UKBAS41924) owned by Faraway (Mrs Nikki Hayton)
Best Appaloosa Suri
Best: Aylswood Fernando (BNBAS16045) owned by Aylswood (Ailene Charlton)
Suri Supreme Champion
Champion: Popham Suri Armstrong (UKBAS42202) owned by Southern Sands (Mr Ben Robinson)
Best British Bred Suri
Champion: Popham Suri Armstrong (UKBAS42202) owned by Southern Sands (Mr Ben Robinson)
Ingrid Weel is based in Surrey and provides photography for weddings, families, businesses… and Alpacas!
Since entering the alpaca world through longtime friends, she has become more involved with these wonderful camelids and their loving owners as the years go on. She even provided a story and photos for this magazine in the September/October 2022 issue.
TOP TIP: If you need a close-up of your animal’s fleece and only have a mobile phone – the sun is your friend! Wait for a sunny day, make sure it’s in focus and fill the frame. paper-plane www.ingridweel.com
Huacaya White Male
Champion: Brillbury Elite Star (BNBAS14095)
owned by Brillbury (Mr Michael Shaw and Mrs Anne Shaw)
Reserve: Bozedown Generation Now (UKBAS34340)
owned by Bozedown Alpacas Ltd
Huacaya White Female
Champion: Legacy Tango In The Night (UKBAS42575)
owned by Legacy (Mrs Myerscough and Mr Henderson)
Reserve: Brillbury Five Star (UKBAS40510)
owned by Brillbury (Mr Michael Shaw and Mrs Anne Shaw)
Huacaya Light Male
Champion: Bozedown Secret Service (BNBAS16501)
owned by Bozedown Alpacas Ltd
Reserve: Bozedown Trailblazer (BNBAS16506)
owned by Bozedown Alpacas Ltd
Huacaya Light Female
Champion: Bozedown Sweet Sensation (UKBAS42868)
owned by Bozedown Alpacas Ltd
Reserve: Alpha Mercedes (UKBAS40351)
owned by Alpha (Miss D F Davies)
Huacaya Fawn Male
Champion: Artwork Jack The Lad (UKBAS40095)
owned by Artwork (Mr K Freivokh and Miss E Windsor)
Reserve: Cold Comfort Oleksandr (NONBAS4590)
owned by Cold Comfort (Mr Chris Herrmannsen and Mrs May Herrmannsen)
Huacaya Fawn Female
Champion: Artwork M.S. American Pie (UKBAS42520)
owned by Artwork (Mr K Freivokh and Miss E Windsor)
Reserve: C-S Alpacas Just Dance (UKBAS42440)
owned by C-S Alpacas (Mrs Julia Corrigan-Stuart and Mr Jack Corrigan-Stuart)
Huacaya Brown Male
Champion: Artwork B.R. American Hustle (UKBAS40085)
owned by Artwork (Mr K Freivokh and Miss E Windsor)
Reserve: Limestone Bengal (BNBAS16305)
owned by Limestone (Mr P Wills)
Huacaya Brown Female
Champion: Inca Prada (UKBAS40919)
owned by Inca (Tim and Tracey Hey)
Reserve: Lane House Ophelia (UKBAS39824)
owned by Lane House (Mrs D Lane and Miss J Lane Dam)
Champion Modern Grey Male
Champion: Evolution Firecracker (BNBAS11858)
owned by Alpaca Evolution Ltd
Huacaya Modern Grey Female
Champion: Snowshill Anna Blu (UKBAS36455)
owned by Snowshill (Mr Roger Mount and Mrs Mary Mount)
Huacaya Grey Male
Champion: Velvet Hall Finisterre (UKBAS36005)
owned by Velvet Hall (Mrs J MacDonald and Mr S Ramsay)
Reserve: Fellside Lynx (BNBAS16396) owned by Fellside (Mr Iain Smith and Mrs Shayne Smith)
Huacaya Grey Female
Champion: Capital Titania (UKBAS40302)
owned by Capital (Kim and Stuart Murray)
Reserve: Inca Grey Pretoria (UKBAS40894)
owned by Inca (Tim and Tracey Hey)
Huacaya Black Male
Champion: Inca No Strings (UKBAS40608)
owned by Inca (Tim and Tracey Hey)
Reserve: Inca Primero (BNBAS15487) owned by Inca (Tim and Tracey Hey)
Huacaya Black Female
Champion: Inca Panache (UKBAS40896) owned by Inca (Tim and Tracey Hey) Reserve: Inca Oklahoma (UKBAS39039) owned by Inca (Tim and Tracey Hey)
Best Appaloosa Huacaya
Best: Lane House Appaloosa Starstruck (BNBAS15966) owned by Lane House (Mrs D Lane and Miss J Lane)
Huacaya Supreme Champion
Champion: Legacy Tango In The Night (UKBAS42575) owned by Legacy (Mrs Myerscough and Mr Henderson)
Best British Bred Huacaya
Champion: Legacy Tango In The Night (UKBAS42575) owned by Legacy (Mrs Myerscough and Mr Henderson)
There were 50 entries in the Fibre Zone judged by Val Fullerlove. Val was impressed with the quality and inventiveness of the entries which included hand spun and hand made products as well as machine spun and machine knitted garments. Knitting, crochet and felting were all techniques employed to make the items on display.
The World of Alpacas (organised by Anne Cheston and Sue Loach the Chair) proved to be of great interest to BAS members and members of the public. The central theme was to explain and educate. The journey of fleece
was explained starting with Colin Ottery and his shearing model, followed by Emma Taylor and her skirting demonstrations, fleece was spun by members of the local Shropshire spinning guild and there were two portable weaving looms in action to complete the process. The BAS stand promoted good welfare and education opportunities and gave away many copies of the Yearbook as well as other BAS merchandise. Geoff Bugler was on hand to demonstrate his award winning alpaca handling system. An unexpected hit was the pen with four llamas which was included so people could see the difference between alpacas and llamas.
The 2023 BAS National Champion of Champions Fleece Show was held on 18th February 2023 and was the first BAS show judged under our newly adopted fleece judging system.
This new system includes a range of more current representative parameters and incorporates a dual approach to scoring. This means there are now two sections on the score card; one involving point allocations being made for breeding attributes and the other allowing the opportunity for deductions to be made in relation to fleece management.
Within the new system, we also see the introduction of various new
components. These include six new age categories, a revised table of weights and microns (and associated points), applicable for both Huacaya and Suri and the introduction of points for an annualised staple length.
It was a real honour to have been invited to judge the Champion of Champions Fleece Show and an absolute pleasure to have the opportunity to get hands on with and appraise such a large number of high quality fleeces.
As with all events, the show’s success reflected the astute level of forward thinking, planning and organisation on behalf of the organisers and so, I would like to thank and commend Mrs Julia Corrigan-Stuart and her team from the Heart of England Alpaca Group, on all of their hard work.
White Huacaya Fleece
Champion: Beck Brow Glory Daze (UKBAS35713)
owned by Beck Brow (Paul and Barbara Hetherington and Craig Kerr)
Reserve: Hilly Ridge Harmony (UKBAS36131)
owned by Hilly Ridge (Mrs Joanne Bridge)
Light Huacaya Fleece
Champion: Artwork Jack The Lad (UKBAS40095)
owned by Artwork (Mr K Freivokh and Miss E Windsor)
Reserve: Artwork B.R. Maverick (UKBAS40101)
owned by Orchard Corner (Mrs Charlie Major and Mr Scott Major)
Fawn Huacaya Fleece
Champion: Artwork B.R. Irma La Douce (UKBAS36242)
owned by Artwork (Mr K Freivokh and Miss E Windsor)
Reserve: Sheriff Little Miss Sure Shot (UKBAS40022)
owned by Sheriff (Miss Caroline Barugh)
Brown Huacaya Fleece
Champion: Dreamacre Orion (UKBAS42497)
owned by Dreamacre (Mrs Lorraine Chambers)
Reserve: Lythe Brow Cem (UKBAS36918)
owned by Lythe Brow (Steven and Tracey Ellershaw)
Grey Huacaya Fleece
Champion: Velvet Hall Finisterre (UKBAS36005)
owned by Velvet Hall (Mrs J MacDonald and Mr S Ramsay)
Reserve: Beck Brow Come As You Are (UKBAS35709)
owned by Beck Brow (Paul and Barbara Hetherington and Craig Kerr)
Black Huacaya Fleece
Champion: Inca No Strings (UKBAS40608) owned by Inca Alpaca Ltd
Reserve: Merryoaks Solitaire (UKBAS36509)
owned by Merryoaks (Mr & Mrs Alan and Helen Hogg)
Champion of Champions Huacaya Fleece
Champion: Beck Brow Glory Daze (UKBAS35713) owned by Beck Brow (Paul and Barbara Hetherington and Craig Kerr)
Reserve: Hilly Ridge Harmony (UKBAS36131)
owned by Hilly Ridge (Mrs Joanne Bridge)
Judges Choice Huacaya
Champion: Brillbury Eros (UKBAS41849) owned by Brillbury (Mr & Mrs Michael and Anne Shaw)
Best British Huacaya Fleece
Beck Brow Glory Daze (UKBAS35713)
owned by Beck Brow (Paul and Barbara Hetherington and Craig Kerr)
White Suri Fleece
Champion: C-S Alpacas Benedict Cumberbatch (BNBAS15546)
owned by C-S Alpacas (Mrs Julia Corrigan-Stuart and Mr Jack Corrigan-Stuart)
Reserve: Aylswood Benvenuto (NONBAS3618)
owned by Aylswood (Miss Ailene Charlton)
Light Suri Fleece
Champion: Springfarm Blizzard (BNBAS15407)
owned by Springfarm (Mr & Mrs Chris and Vicki Agar)
Reserve: C-S Alpacas Magic Mike (UKBAS40111)
owned by Ashford (Mr John Lunn and Mrs Paula Lunn)
Fawn Suri Fleece
Champion: C-S Alpacas Holly Willoughby (UKBAS40436)
owned by C-S Alpacas (Mrs Julia Corrigan-Stuart and Mr Jack Corrigan-Stuart)
Reserve: Park Side Gairloch (UKBAS38681)
owned by Park Side (Mr & Mrs Hamilton)
Brown Suri Fleece
Champion: Springfarm King Arthur owned by Springfarm (Mr & Mrs Chris and Vicki Agar)
Reserve: Balnuith Icon (UKBAS42379) owned by Balnuith (Mr John Wiseman and Mrs Alison Wiseman)
Grey Suri Fleece
Champion: Faraway Scarlet Fever (UKBAS41804) owned by Faraway (Mrs Nikki Hayton)
Black Suri Fleece
Champion: Faraway Blue Blood (BNBAS14662) owned by Faraway (Mrs Nikki Hayton)
Reserve: Amber Valley Black Tulip (UKBAS29546) owned by Snowshill (Mr Roger Mount and Mrs Mary Mount)
Champion of Champions Suri Fleece
Champion: C-S Alpacas Benedict Cumberbatch (BNBAS15546)
owned by C-S Alpacas (Mrs Julia Corrigan-Stuart and Mr Jack Corrigan-Stuart)
Reserve: Springfarm Blizzard (BNBAS15407)
owned by Springfarm (Mr Chris Agar and Mrs Vicki Agar)
Best British Suri Fleece
Champion: Springfarm Blizzard (BNBAS15407) owned by Springfarm (Mr Chris Agar and Mrs Vicki Agar)
Judges Choice Suri
Champion: C-S Alpacas Benedict Cumberbatch (BNBAS15546) owned by C-S Alpacas (Mrs Julia Corrigan-Stuart and Mr Jack Corrigan-Stuart)
Are you looking for or in need of a little extra help with your animals and their routine husbandry tasks?
KW animal services offers that extra pair of hands. Jobs include: Shearing of alpacas | Vaccinations | Worming Halter training | Foot trimming | Microchipping
I can also offer advice and help with a range of other issues such as matings, birthing, common husbandry problems and paddock management. Reasonable rates
Grassland is something more than an area for the animals to exercise; it is the most valuable source of cheap food there is. Do not destroy it through ‘over stocking’ (too many animals per hectare). Be aware that there is a limit to the capacity of any field or farm. Stocking rates differ according the type and quality of the grass, the positioning (eg lowland, well drained, mountainous), soil type, but it’s often quoted at four to six alpacas per acre. Less is more though, so it is best to aim for minimum rather than maximum stocking rates, especially when first beginning.
It is all too easy to start with a few breeding livestock, all of which are dearly loved, so none are sold and which multiply rapidly until they begin to ruin the grassland as a result of over stocking. Sometimes this can become a welfare
issue in terms of competing for food.
Topping is cutting, at a height of 10cm to 15cm, of surplus grass and weeds in pasture. Alpacas do not do well on taller grasses and prefer lower, more leafy grasses.
The most delightful feature of grass, is that it thrives on being cut or grazed and immediately puts additional effort into growing more aggressively.
Grassland weeds such as docks, thistles and nettles can however, be seriously weakened by cutting when the seed heads are forming, which means that topping pastures can greatly assist their management, encouraging the grass whilst weakening the weeds.
It is important NOT to top poisonous weeds like Ragwort, because once dead, they will then be eaten by livestock whilst still poisonous. Ragwort
is cumulative and although it rarely causes instant death it will cause damage leading to death over time. Most alpacas will not eat it if they have plenty of other grass, but it should not be in their grazing anyway especially as it spreads. It usually first arrives as a result of poor grazing management so the grass cannot compete but obviously seeds from road verges do not help.
Establishing grass seeds successfully is one of the most difficult farming activities you can attempt. An intimate knowledge of the soil and how to cultivate it correctly, at the right time of year, together with an understanding and predicting of the weather are important factors in achieving a successful re-seed, which is more productive than the grass which was there before. The exercise is rarely worth the cost, the risk and the loss of production during the process. It is
always better to try and improve the grass you have.
A pasture full of weeds can rarely be improved by re-seeding, because the soil will be full of weed seeds, all of which, being in their natural environment, will take advantage of the cultivations, to germinate and grow, swamping the carefully selected and sown grass, clover and herb seeds, which may be alien to that environment. If you are considering re seeding, shut off your paddock so it can rest and seek expert advice. Techniques like harrowing, rolling and eradicating weeds – you might need to spray – will encourage the grass to grow and you can try some extra grass seed in bad patches. You may need fertilizer but take advice, nitrogen is not usually the best one for damaged grassland, it needs longer lasting nutrients.
Clear thistles, brambles, conkers (these can cause digestive impactions if swallowed anyway), beech mast, cleavers, brambles and anything else which may invade your alpacas’ coats – time spent doing this will mean you have clean fleeces for processing, rather than spending hours picking out debris, or worse – just discarding their valuable fleeces. It will also further encourage grass growth.
W Field Agricultural incorporating Paddock Equipment, based in Somerset, offers a range of grassland machinery solutions to suit every budget, acreage and desired result.
Working as a small team W Field Agricultural offers a friendly personalised service to all customers. Director and lead mechanic Wayne Field is well known within the industry for his outstanding mechanical expertise with some considering him among the top in the country which enables W Field Agricultural to offer a high standard of aftercare to their customers.
Grazing should form the majority if not the entirety of an alpaca’s diet and with them not eating thistles, docks or nettles it makes sense to ensure your grazing land is of the best possible quality it can be. Regardless of acreage chain harrowing should form part of your grassland management routine. Regular chain harrowing helps to stimulate growth by aerating and removing the dead thatch out of the grass, other benefits include breaking up and levelling out soil and spreading fertiliser, visit www.chainharrows.co.uk for the full list of benefits or to purchase a chain harrow.
Regardless of whether you have a large agricultural tractor or a ride on mower the website offers a full range of solutions to suit all budgets and towing vehicles. A great complement to chain harrowing is to roll your grassland. Rolling helps level out any unevenness, firms up the ground and gently crushes the grass crowns, which encourages the grass to spread and also maximises its growth. Paddock Equipment W Field Agricultural offer what they consider one of the best rollers on the market, made with heavy duty steel, and supplied with many extra features as standard. Visit www.paddockrollers.co.uk for more information.
An unpleasant but essential management task for any alpaca keeper. A very simple tool to help prevent a worm burden is to collect faeces off the pasture, this will help to prevent eggs staying in the pasture and hatching out into infectious larvae during the warmer months. Paddock vacuum cleaners are available to purchase through Paddock Equipment. These come in a range of models so whether you want to pull, tow or require something self propelled there is something to suit. All the paddock cleaners on offer use the clean fan technique which means no muck or debris pass through the engine fan ensuring a long working life.
The paddock cleaner uses a suction hose to pick up the droppings leaving a very clean finish and no cross contamination which is essential for keeping your grazing clean and minimising the risk of a worm burden. The paddock cleaners are able to pick up a wide range of materials offering excellent value for money, visit www.paddockvacuumcleaners.co.uk for more information and to see the full list of benefits.
There are times it is necessary to substitute hay and/or haylage into your alpaca’s diet, for example during the winter months or during pregnancy and for lactating females. For those who have surplus grassland the opportunity is there for you to produce your own hay or haylage, the benefits of which are endless. No more waiting for your local farmer or contractor to fit you in, you can seize that small window the great British weather gives you yourself, not only this but you know the exact contents of your feed. W Field Agricultural are suppliers of Malone Farm Machinery, Malone being one of the market leaders in grassland equipment. Products include a range of toppers, disc mowers and tedders all of which demonstrate the latest grassland technology and the outstanding heavy duty build quality proves their equipment to be a fantastic investment.
Based in the South West of England just outside Weston-super-Mare, Paddock Equipment, part of W Field Agricultural Engineering & Services Ltd, is one of the largest suppliers of paddock equipment in the UK. We specialise in all types of paddock equipment from trailed and mounted chain harrows to paddock vacuums and field rollers.
Mudcontrol Ltd was established in the UK in 2018, supplying high quality, durable, 100% recycled plastic products, made from drinks bottles, plastic bags and so on, a solid, heavy-duty Playground Certified material, with a 20 year manufacturer's warranty.
The small, dedicated team of Kerry and James at Mudcontrol will help you find a solution to your ground issues with game-changing Mudcontrol slabs. They concentrate on providing great customer service as well as excellent quality products, with no minimum order and speedy delivery to anywhere in the UK. They offer a quick, rock-solid, DIY solution, for anywhere you have a mud problem. No machinery or preparation is usually required, so you can solve your issues almost instantly.
Each slab measures 50cm x 50cm x 5.3cm and weighs 7kg (one stone).
They interlink securely to support one another and are designed to work as the sub-base and base in one, laid straight onto the mud/soil/grass, (just remove any stones or lumps beforehand so that the slabs can lie flat.)
Then fill in the holes (5cm diameter) and top the slabs generously with sand, wood chip or animal bedding) if the area is for animal use.
The slabs provide a stable, self-supporting, free-draining surface, and they won’t flex and sink, even on heavy clay. Grass will grow up through the holes, and can be mown, grazed or left (or you can lay them on terram if you want to discourage vegetation), and they are rated to over 60 tonnes, so absolutely fine for farm traffic.
Using traditional methods such as stone and concrete often involves significant time, labour, machinery and materials expenditure, and in the case of stone or road planings, on certain ground types they may only last
For further information or to discuss your requirements:
for a year or two before more work and materials are needed. Plus, once the money is spent, it is gone forever, whereas Mudcontrol slabs have a high resale value.
To create a 6m x 6m pad of concrete 30cm deep takes approximately 11 cubic metres of concrete, which can cost over £1,200 for the concrete alone. The groundworks and preparation would be a significant extra cost, whereas our product is far cheaper, faster to install, and ecologically sound. These are also ideal for people on rented ground as you are able to take your investment with you if you move.
Mudcontrol slabs are strong and solid enough to be moved and re-laid, added to, or left in place for decades without losing your investment. Think of them as an indispensable piece of equipment, one that retains its value and is guaranteed for 20 years. Best of all, you can do the job yourself, no need for contractors or heavy groundworks.
Used on any soil type to create solid gateways, pathways, tracks, roads, loafing areas, feed areas, 'pony patios', parking or storage areas, quickly and easily with minimal mess and disturbance, Mudcontrol slabs are quite simply the proven solution. Customers are the best salespeople, this can be seen in countless positive customer testimonials.
While specialising in the revolutionary Mudcontrol slabs, a 100% recycled plastic fencing and associated products are also available from the same manufacturer, helping to make your yards, paddocks and other areas safe and secure for years to come. These products are solid and heavy-duty and can be installed (by machine or by hand) and used just like wood, but are the no-rot solution we have all been waiting for.
• Act now and control mud forever
• 100% recycled heavy plastic
• Solid, interlinking slabs create instant hardstanding
• Immediately transforms and protects the ground beneath
• Create access, yards & parking exactly where you need them
• Base & sub-base in one
• Removable and reusable
Weather:
Protecting against adverse weather
Ventilation:
Provide good air flow
Flies:
Shelter against summer heat and flies
Adaptability:
Water drinkers, troughs and deep bedding can all be added
Husbandry:
A great place to complete feet-trimming, vitamin drenches or as a quarantine area
Appearance: Practical and attractive
Size: Various options and sizes available. Please visit our website for more
Being an Alpaca breeder the welfare of our animals is paramount so the pods are designed and manufactured by ourselves taking this into account. We designed the Alpaca pods for our own herd and are now pleased to offer these for sale.
Understanding the signs that show the alpaca may be close to birthing plus having already prepared essential birthing equipment will give you confidence when this exciting season starts. It’s also especially helpful to be prepared if the weather is not spring like or its pitch dark. So what are the things to look out for?
The average time for this is 343 days, but parturition may occasionally occur earlier than eleven or longer than twelve months from last mating dates.
Regularly Body Condition Score. Ideally this should be recorded monthly throughout the year. Loss of body condition should trigger increased feeding to maintain pregnancy and avoid abortion or premature birth, as foetal growth occurs mainly in the last trimester of pregnancy.
This is the name of the first milk the dam produces and it is rich in antibodies. Colostrum is essential for all alpaca crias, and if a cria either doesn’t get enough, or it is of poor quality, then they may fail to thrive. It is good to have some frozen alpaca colostrum available, especially in case of premature birth. A very good alternative is a Colostrum Replacer called Immucol Platinum, available from www.ukalpacavet.com
Have this ready well before your birthing season. Include a towel, weighing scales and sling, umbilical clamp, iodine solution, ear tags and applicator. You should also have to hand: a thermometer, a lamb tubing kit, a lamb feeding bottle and teats (a baby bottle and teat will do, but the hole in the teat will need to be enlarged), a cria coat and a hair dryer in case you have a hypothermic cria. A very comprehensive birthing kit is available from www.ukalpacavet.com.
Try to have your females nearby for observation from at least a month before the first crias are due and check them more regularly as they near their due dates. Most crias will be born between 08.00 and 13.00 hrs, but this is not guaranteed. It is wise to monitor your females every few hours when they are due to give birth.
At three to five days before birth a ligament just beside the tail and between the two sides of the pelvis will relax to allow the cria to pass through the pelvis. It’s possible to feel this change in tension, and so you can monitor this to get a clue of when birth may occur. Stand by the hips facing rearwards: the ligament runs from the base of the tail to the point of the hip. Compare with a non-pregnant female if you're not sure! It feels like a thick guitar string.
Quite near to parturition the dam will probably visit the poo pile more than usual: she may roll, or she may go off on her own apart from the herd. The majority of alpaca births will be straightforward and trouble-free, but will still require monitoring.
For an unparalleled learning opportunity look out for the popular online training courses to be offered by specialist camelid vet Claire Whitehead later in the year. The Camelid Health Care course will be starting in late August, followed by the Breeding Management and Cria Care course starting in October. Please follow the Camelid Veterinary Services Ltd Facebook page for the latest information on courses for owners and vets.
Many will already know when the shearer is coming to provide alpacas with the welcome relief that comes with fleece removal. If you have struggled to find a shearer, local alpaca owner groups often have lists of reputable providers in your area.
The weather has proven to be rather inconsistent in recent years, so if shearing early, it is sensible to have rugs on hand to cover vulnerable older stock and youngsters if it becomes cold again. Later shearing means that you may avoid having to deal with early summer temperature drops, however it can increase the risk of both flystrike and heat stress.
On the day of shearing, you can expect to have your animals gently restrained, and this can provide a great opportunity for some important husbandry tasks and assessments, which are outlined below:
With animals on a shearing table, feet are much easier to get a hold of – you can take this opportunity to bring any over-long toenails back level with the pad, and also inspect the pads themselves for any cracks or foreign bodies that may need attention. Some shearers include this with their services.
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Tooth trimming should be undertaken on a case-by case basis and certainly incisor trimming should not be done as a matter of course. Teeth may not look perfect, but the decision to alter them should take into account an alpaca’s body condition, their ability to pick up and chew food normally, as well as their ability close their mouths fully. Trimming of incisors is legally an act of veterinary surgery due to the potential for entering into the sensitive pulp cavity, so shearing presents an opportunity to inspect teeth and condition score your animals before enlisting a vet to assess and treat. Sometimes bites that are abnormal at the front can be associated with poor alignment of the cheek teeth; thus a more detailed dental examination and treatment can be warranted. Fighting teeth may be burred down for the safety of handlers and other alpacas. If you have concerns about the dental health of any of your alpacas, you can perhaps book for the vet to visit at the same time as the shearer to reduce the potential need for further handling and any associated stress.
As you’re grouping alpacas ready for shearing, you have a chance to take some faecal samples to send to your vet or laboratory of choice to understand the particular parasite burden within your herd (if any!). It is not recommended to dose with wormer at shearing (or at any time) ‘just in case’; this can contribute to resistance, and since different wormers target different worm species (and none treat for coccidia- a protozoal parasite), you may not treat the potential burdens in your herd.
Your vet can best advise on sampling, but individual samples taken (gently) direct from the rectum yield the best quality information.
Relating to external parasites, it is very common for shearing to uncover lurking mite burdens, or even worse, flystrike. Luckily, both conditions are more easily treated when fibre is short, so if you note any lesions or crusting, scabbing or weeping skin, your vet should take samples and determine a course of treatment depending on the type of parasite responsible.
Fibre can really hinder our ability to determine an animal’s body condition, so condition scoring should always be a hands-on process. At shearing, you are well placed to determine which animals are perhaps over-conditioned, or those who could benefit from some extra TLC –through diagnostics or enhanced nutritional support. Knowing a herd’s condition helps you to group animals of similar scores together, to tailor their nutrition. Many use scales of 1-5 or 1-10 (one being thin and 5 or 10 obese). Body condition scoring assesses the level of tissue coverage over the bones of the spine and other areas. This is best performed over the spine between the ribs and pelvis, with covering ranging from a straight drop either side of the spinal process, or, if over fat, a ‘peachier’ shape. Alpacas should ideally sit in the middle of whichever scale you use.
It is common for shearing to be accompanied by vaccination for clostridial disease, often administered by shearers as part of the service. While convenient, it is not technically legal for contractors to perform as the medications are not licenced for alpacas but there are other reasons for this not being a recommended practice. Vaccines must be kept cold, or risk being inactivated. Therefore, whomever is administering the vaccines must preserve the cold chain. Clostridial vaccines also expire within hours of being broached, so care must be taken that you are not outwith the limit of your chosen vaccine. Lastly, shearing, though done with the utmost care and attention, can induce stress in alpacas, and it is not ideal to pose an immune challenge on a stressful day. Vaccination is ideally undertaken in the calmest, safest way with minimal interaction, especially in the case of pregnant females. Vaccination, including which product to use, is a personal decision, which should be made considering advice from your vet, your holding’s risk profile, handling facilities and capabilities.
Here's to a sunny summer, and a stress-free shearing season for you all.
so and nutritious, palatable grass feed. 100% pure, short-chopped grass
“Thoroughly recommended. The alpacas clearly find the Grass-tastic and Grass Pellets delicious. Definitely the most liked grass product on the market.”
Nikki Hayton, Faraway Alpacas.
Wool Testing Authority launched their new and improved website in late 2022, with the new facility to book and pre-pay for fleece tests.
Dr Courtney Pye, Managing Director of Wool Testing Authority
Europe discusses these changes and how WTAE ensure an accurate and reliable fleece testing service for the alpaca industry.
Asuccessful breeding program requires accurate and reliable fleece data. Our technical superiority, strengthened by our technical accreditations means we are the leaders in natural fibre testing which includes alpaca fibre. However, one question I often get asked is what WTAE can offer the alpaca industry given that we hold a licence to test sheep wool. It is a valid question and one I am more than happy to answer.
WTAE are audited annually to assess our ongoing compliance to industry standards and technical requirements. Now, I must be clear at this point
that these standards and requirements do not encompass fleece testing, but they do instil an ethos of quality assurance and are a key strength of the business. In having the relevant industry accreditations, we have demonstrated our technical competence and WTAE’s compliance to these standards forms the bedrock of the business. When a laboratory has these accreditations, you can be assured of its technical ability and integrity of test results, and we invest significant resources into maintaining these licences and accreditations.
“Quality assurance is embedded in our laboratory policies and procedures”.
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Advantages of alpaca colour testing:
- Get “colour breeding instructions” of your alpacas to increase the chance of getting the most desirable results
- Improve colour uniformity
- Improve your sales ads with combining the DNA colour test results
- Helps you not to sell the wrong animals... Visit www.futuregen.fi to learn more & order online Carita
Saarinen +358 451398374
A common belief is that WTAE can only test sheep wool. The short response to that is yes, we do test sheep wool, however, it is important to acknowledge that there is no regulated testing industry for alpaca fibres. This is a real shame, but every problem has a solution. The clear solution is to utilise other fibre testing technologies which WTAE possess, including the OFDA 2000. There are no viable alternatives meaning other natural fibre producers would be at a real disadvantage if they didn’t use this technology.
Through our knowledge of quality assurance and internationally recognised test methods, we are more than qualified to test other natural fibres. So, despite there being no internationally recognised alpaca certified test, this does not stop us applying the skills we have learned through our sheep wool testing to other fibres. We have a plethora of satisfied customers who trade in alpaca, mohair, cashmere, silk and even pineapple fibres. All are immensely satisfied with our service and the quality of our test results.
We are acutely aware of the differences between alpaca wool and sheep wool, and we treat the two types of fibre differently when it comes to testing. In their raw form, natural fibres are coated in grease/lanolin which has an impact on the diameter of the fibre. In sheep this can increase the diameter by as much as 3µm depending on the breed, so its presence cannot be ignored.
During a routine “IWTO certified test”, the samples must be completely stripped of their grease content before measuring fibre diameter. The samples are scoured, dried to complete dryness, and then conditioned to the IWTO standard atmosphere of 65% relative humidity and 20°C. Once fully conditioned, the sample can be measured for fibre diameter. This is the most accurate way of determining fibre diameter of any natural fibre, but the sample preparation is lengthy and resource intensive especially when dealing with smaller staple sized samples. The OFDA 2000 offers a much more cost-effective approach by being able to test the greasy staple straight from the animal’s back.
The obvious question is, what about the grease content? Well, we can correct for this using a grease correction factor which is applied by the OFDA 2000 software. We simply determine what the grease correction is for a particular fibre whether it be alpaca, cashmere or wool and program this into the software. Through internal trials, WTAE have determined the grease correction factors for a variety of natural fibres including alpaca fibres, which are applied accordingly when we perform a test. We can determine the grease correction factor for individual flocks if this was required.
In conjunction with this, we implement policies and procedures adopted
from our knowledge of recognised test methods such as; scrupulous quality control systems, rigorous staff training programs and a stringent calibration schedule. This ethos is adopted from technical standards and applied to our fleece testing service as well. Our staff are highly trained to think analytically, and all have attended quality assurance and technical auditing training courses. Our policies and procedures are driven by this culture.
We place strong emphasis on quality control. Now this isn’t unusual in any testing facility and should form the basis of any testing procedure whether accredited or not. How do you know if equipment is functioning correctly if you don’t check it? We perform two quality control checks per day – one in the morning and one in the afternoon. These checks assess the performance of the OFDA 2000 by testing wool tops of known fibre diameter. The tops are measured in the same way as during routine fleece testing and the values are compared to the assigned value issued by the manufacturer. If the values issued by the OFDA 2000 fall within the allowable tolerances, the machine is deemed to be functioning satisfactorily and testing can commence. If the results fall outside of the allowable tolerances, the quality control check fails, and a non-conformance investigation is initiated – another policy adopted straight from our technical standards. No results will be issued until the deviation is rectified.
Finally, the OFDA 2000 is calibrated twice a year – this speaks for itself. Without a correctly calibrated machine, the test results are not going to be accurate or replicable. The QC checks outlined in the previous paragraph monitor these calibrations. Deviations in the QC checks will highlight if a calibration due date needs to be brought forward.
In addition to our quality assurance, we offer cost effective fleece testing. The OFDA 2000 is a game changer for high throughput fleece testing meaning the laboratory uses less resources. We pass these cost savings onto our customers meaning we offer good value for money with no compromise on quality.
At the end of 2022 we took the decision to upgrade our website. We thought it was time for a refresh as the old website had served its time. We hope that this new website is more streamlined and user friendly.
Our Alpaca Testing page explains our services and what we offer the alpaca industry. There is now also the facility to book and pre-pay for fleece tests via the website, a feature our customers were crying out for. We listened to this feedback and added the feature along with the overall website overhaul.
We look forward to forging new relationships in the future and providing our expert services where they are needed.
Happy testing!
Dress has always played a powerful part in signifying the status or role of a person in society and this is still true today. The coronation of King Charles will be a visual display of royal history and pageantry with the Kings attire being an essential element of the show. As alpaca owners we know that only Incan royalty were permitted to wear garments made of coveted vicuña fibre and equally only the finest silks, embroidered with golden thread and dyed with the most expensive dyes were the chosen fabrics of our monarchs to signal their superiority and status.
The historic coronation robes are steeped in history and worn in a specific order during the ceremony. The King will enter Westminster Abbey
wearing the Robe of State, a magnificent scarlet robe followed by the Colobium Sindonis, a pure white robe designed to symbolise purity before God, this is worn for the most sacred moment of the ceremony, the anointment. Once anointed the Supertunica, a coat of golden silk is placed over the Colobium sindonis for the investiture. The King is crowned wearing another golden robe; the Robe Royal, or Pallium Regale, and finally at the end of the ceremony the newly crowned sovereign will exit the Abbey wearing the Imperial Robe; a 15lb, 6 1/2-meter velvet robe of deepest purple. That is a lot of costume changes! each representing a significant moment in the ceremony. It is thought that King Charles may utilise fewer of these historic robes in an attempt to promote a more modern monarchy, but he will still want to retain the essential pomp and
pageantry key to the event and it is expected that the purple Imperial robe will certainly be worn.
The material of the cloth is not the only indicator of the status of these robes, the colour of the fabrics have an essential role in portraying rank and power. Gold of course plays a major part of this exhibition with many of the robes made of or embroidered with golden thread – the silken threads would have been hand dyed yellow and then wrapped in finely cut golden wires to make a shimmering fabric. However, the final robe worn is deep purple to represent the power and pre-eminence of the newly crowned monarch.
Historically golden thread and purple dye are the two most exclusive and expensive materials that a garment could have been made of and as such would be reserved for only the most important members of a society. Images of Roman emperors are synonymous with the colour purple due to vast expense of producing clothing made of such a colour. The purple dye used was so rare and so valuable that wearing it was reserved for the elite, eventually only the emperor was allowed to wear full garments of this colour.
Purple dye was literally worth more than its weight in gold and came to symbolise the wealth and power of the Roman Emperors, even wearing imitation shades of purple made with cheaper materials resulted in punishment. This dye was known as Tyrian purple, made from a particular sea snail native to the area now known as Lebanon and made by crushing thousands of sea shells – Mediterranean Murex. It took 10,000 Murex molluscs to make enough pigment to dye just one toga!
Due to its vast expense and rarity the colour purple became synonymous with royalty, power and wealth. Queen Elizabeth I created specific laws dictating the colours and fabrics that people were permitted to wear based on their social rank and wealth, and specifically forbad anyone except close members of the royal family to wear the colour purple.
Purple only became accessible to lower classes about a century and a half ago with the somewhat accidental creation of a purple compound by English chemist William Henry Perkin. Perkin was attempting to synthesize quinine to make an anti-malaria drug but noticed
Annie Nickerson of Burnt Fen Alpacas looks at the richness of natural dying and its links to the Coronation
that the compound formed during one of his experiments could be used to dye fabrics purple. Perkins patented the dye and manufactured it making a fortune in the process. The colour was called Aniline or Perkin’s purple, but the deep association of royalty and purple continues and is the reason that to this day the final coronation Imperial robe is of deepest purple.
Tyrian purple pigment is still highly valued today, produced by just a handful of people around the world, each with their own secret techniques and still trades for eye watering prices! However, thankfully, it is possible to make a purple dye using natural materials without mashing up hundreds of sea snails or breaking the bank!
Logwood is a tree that grows abundantly in Central America and the West Indies and is grown and exported as a sustainable natural dye. The heartwood of the tree can be used as either shredded wood chips or powder and gives a wide range of beautiful purple dyes from light lavender to deep purple. To achieve good colours a mordant is needed for the dye to fix properly to fabric or yarn and colour will vary depending on the PH of the dye bath. For protein fibres like alpaca, an alum mordant is best.
Most probably the purple of our Tudor monarchs was created using a combination of cochineal overdyed with indigo rather than Tyrian purple, as access to the secrets of Tyrian dyeing was mainly lost with the fall of Constantinople in the 15th Century. Cochineal and Indigo would have both been extremely costly as they had to be imported and needed skilled dyers to create the desired purple and as such continued the elitist nature of purple as a colour worn by only the most powerful and wealthy in society.
However both cochineal and indigo are readily
accessible today giving a fantastic range of reds, pinks, and blues that when combined produce varying shades of purple. The red of the cochineal comes from a female scale insect (Dactylopius coccus) that lives on a particular prickly pear cactus plant and is normally imported from South America, whilst the beautiful blues of Indigo are extracted from the leaves of the many varieties of indigo plant cultivated in tropical areas throughout the world.
Achieving purple using cochineal and indigo is a more complex process than using Logwood as firstly the yarn or fabric is dyed with cochineal and then overdyed using a indigo vat, but this method does create a more lightfast dye and although a long process the variation in colours is well worth the effort!
Understanding how royal purple was created and valued allows us to admire its historic importance and perhaps have greater appreciation for the work and thought behind these magnificent robes of state.
Emma Taylor (East Anglia Alpaca Mill, Alpacas of East Anglia, Exclusively Alpaca Mill Shop & Experience Alpaca) predominantly works with pure undyed alpaca yarns from her own herd. Using commercially available software the coronation crown has been simplified for machine or hand knitting.
The pattern can be knitted in one continuous piece until the shaping if required and the pattern is easy to follow as a hand knitting task remembering to k1r, p1r.
For machine knitting you will require a colour changer (or patience) and DBJ (double bed jacquard) is the method of knitting of choice. If you do not have a ribber you will need to use fair isle and manually reknit stitches in rows where you have more than two colours in each row; alternatively use intarsia. Specific instructions for each machine
As given, this pattern is designed for a standard gauge 4.5mm knitting machine.
Not suited to beginners but feel free to use the pattern to experiment with. It’s not been fully tested due to time constraints – we wanted to get this to you for the Coronation!
Tensions 32 stitches to 40 rows per 10cms for 4 ply yarn. Use DBJ. Each section is approx. 17.8cms at the given tension.
Make 3 (4 or 5) identical as required for size and join seams along straight vertical sides. You may choose to omit the top section or join over the crown to suit. As this is predominantly knit stitch you may experience some edge curl until sewn together. To increase the length simply repeat rows 2-9 as required.
Choose and vary colours to suit. Perhaps consider using purl for some of the white stitches to add further texture.
Pattern design inspiration taken from the St Edward’s Crown made for Charles II in 1661.
and method will be in your machine manual.
Emma has been machine knitting on a variety of domestic machines for six years and has recently embarked on commissions predominantly for the UK market. More recently machine and hand knitting together with other hand crafts including weaving, peg looming, crochet, drop spindle & hand spinning are all making a comeback and are all taught in workshops held in the Mill workspace.
With modern technology and social media platforms learning has been made easy but there is nothing like one to one tuition which Emma offers in machine knitting during the winter months.
TOFT founder Kerry Lord’s latest publication, Alexandra’s Garden: Flowers, which features patterns to make 30 crochet flowers will be launched at the end of March at the 17th Wonderwool Show, held at the Royal Welsh Showground in Builth Wells on 22 and 23 April 2023.
Ria Burns, who designs and makes sustainable knitwear in Bristol, has chosen to launch her new book, Dyeing Yarn Naturally, published by the Crowood Press, which will also be promoted at Wonderwool Wales.
Ria makes small batch, artisanal clothes from local, traceable wool. She hand dyes her garments with homegrown and foraged native plants, handmaking each piece to create a locally made, long-lasting and unique product that works with, not against, the environment.
The knitwear is designed for longevity and Ria takes pride in showcasing the natural hues and qualities of British wool as a soft, warm, and durable textile.
Dyeing Yarn Naturally is a step-by-step guide to the process of dyeing yarn naturally from start to finish. This practical book explains the basics of how to colour yarn successfully with plant-based dyes.
It starts with a detailed account of how to source materials and equipment, then moves on to how to prepare yarn and finally how to dye.
Packed with advice and illustrated with inspiring photos, this guide will launch readers on a sustainable and creative journey that explores and celebrates the dyeing potential of everyday plants.
“Wonderwool Wales will be the book’s first official outing after publication, so I think it technically counts as the launch, which is very exciting,” said Ria whose website is www.riaburns.co.uk.
Kelly’s much-anticipated book, Alexandra’s Garden: Flowers, celebrates TOFT’s 30 favourite flowers, travelling through the four seasons of the garden.
Flowers range from the first snowdrop shoots pushing through the frost to the delicate and intricate petals of the alstroemeria and on to the fantastical displays of the dahlia.
Accompanied by stunning floral photography,
readers will also find pages of handy tips and tricks, sewing up instructions and guides for tension, basic stitches and much more.
TOFT is a British craft company based in the rural Warwickshire village of the same name, which is home of the Edward's Menagerie and Alexandra's Garden collections of crochet animals and flowers by Kerry.
Bringing traditional crafts and contemporary designs together using luxury materials, the business specialises in beginner knit and crochet kits and has a wide range of pattern books and British wool. Everything is sold online at www.toftuk.com to customers worldwide.
TOFT was launched at Kerry’s parents’ alpaca stud farm in 2006, originally to produce alpaca yarns. Today, the company sells both alpaca and premium sheep wool yarns and has a global following.
All of TOFT's yarn – whether alpaca or premium wool – is spun in the UK by the best mills in England. The wool itself is of the highest quality, both in terms of the raw fibre the company uses and the workmanship that goes into creating the yarns.
Animal welfare is extremely important to TOFT as well. All wool yarns are museling free and all of the alpaca yarn is from the fleeces of the company’s own herd.
In addition to the development of TOFT yarns, Kerry has written a series of best-selling books, including ‘Edward's Menagerie’. During the last weeks of her pregnancy with her son Edward in 2012, she taught herself to crochet and made a toy elephant for her new baby.
This began the collection of amigurumi animals – there are now more than 200 –which is now a phenomenon in the global craft industry. Edward's Menagerie began as an ebook that was exclusive to TOFT until 2014 when it was turned into a book and appeared on the shelves of bookshops all around the world.
Since then Kerry has designed hundreds more crochet patterns and written more books.
Two new books will be promoted at this year’s Wonderwool Wales, the award-winning show that celebrates all that’s great about Welsh wool and natural fibres.
On Saturday 28 January an enthusiastic band of crafters gathered together at Essex Young Farmers Club Centre to celebrate the joys of working with alpaca fibre by Kath Shearer (EAG Secretary).
It was one of the first in person events that Eastern Alpaca Group had hosted since lockdown and the pleasure of spending time amongst friends and new acquaintances again was clear to all.
A range of crafters had kindly offered their time and skills for the day. Jo Bridge (Hilly Ridge Alpacas), Simon Ilett (Moat Alpacas) and Di Wain were spinning using drop spindles and spinning wheels. Jo Parker (Rushmere Alpacas) was creating peg loom rugs. Kath and Neel Shearer (Free Range fibre) were crocheting and weaving, and Emma Taylor (East Anglia Alpaca Mill, Alpacas of East Anglia and Exclusively Alpaca) was demonstrating machine knitting.
A small cafe area had been set up, and in between slices of cake and cups of tea, participants were learning to spin alpaca yarn, crochet squares, set up looms, knit hats and weave rugs. Lots of beautiful yarns and finished products were also on display and available for sale.
The day was a huge success with the atmosphere in the room alive with chat, laughter and love of all things alpaca. Lots of new crafters left the Centre with ideas for their own alpaca fibre and plans are already afoot to host another Craft & Create next year!
www.bas-uk.com/alpaca-shows-and-events/bas-alpaca-shows
The shows in this list all have alpaca classes. Always best to check that the show is running, the timings or if the classes are going ahead (especially if weather is bad) if you are going as a spectator rather than waste time travelling.
Unsure of how to skirt a fleece, or want to recap?
Want to present your fleeces to the best of their ability at shows, but don’t know how to noodle? Then this workshop is for you.
Run by BAS judges, Shirley Bettinson and Julia Corrigan-Stuart this is a practical workshop, starting with how to skirt a fleece and then explaining how to noodle them in garden fleece to keep them intact and present well for fleece shows for Judges to judge, or just to store them neatly. You can bring your own fleeces to work on, or there will be fleeces provided. The workshop is being held at CS Alpacas, Yeat Wood Farm, Wotton Underwood, Bucks HP18 0RL and the cost is £10/person (HoEAG Member) and £15/person (non-member).
More details on www.heartofenglandalpacagroup.co.uk/event
Breeding quality, friendly alpacas on the Romney Marsh, we pride ourselves on the relationship we have with our animals and our high welfare standards.
Many of the herd have been halter trained and are great walking companions. We can help you find anything from a fleecy friend to a show winning fleece.
For new keepers we have well bonded starter herds available with a full support package including – training with our head herdsperson, home visits, shearing, ongoing phone/ face-to-face support and a ‘Home for Life’ guarantee as standard. So please come on down and meet the herd!
TEL: 01303 870527
EMAIL: office@alpacaannie.com
WEB: www.alpacaannie.com
A proud family run business who love and cherish each and every one of our beautiful, happy and healthy, prize winning alpaca.
Providing the highest quality service for all your needs...
• Alpacas for sale • Coloured Alpaca • Males and females
• Halter Trained • Backup Support • Suit your budget
• Agistment Services • All BAS registered.
TEL: 07554 675543
WEB: www.bridevalleyalpacas.com
The PennyBridge Herd and Stud. One of the first alpaca farms set up in the South of England, still producing show winners from champion stock. Good quality starter herds, proven and potential stud males, fancy grazers and sheep guards available.
‘Home of The Alpaca Experience’.
Situated in North Hampshire, close to the Surrey and Berkshire borders with good access to ports and airports, less than five minutes drive from both J5 and 6 of the M3.
TEL: 01256 764824 or 07801 132757
EMAIL: joy@pennybridgealpacas.co.uk
WEB: www.pennybridgealpacas.co.uk
Here at White Peak Alpacas, we have been breeding alpacas for over 30 years. Originally located in the Peak District, we are now located in Cheshire.
We offer a wide variety of pedigree alpacas. We are happy to discuss your requirements, just get in touch!
PHONE: 01565 872 012
EMAIL: adrian@whitepeakalpacafarm.co.uk
WEB: www.whitepeakalpacafarm.co.uk
Lightfoot Alpacas are situated in Hawkhurst in the Weald of Kent. We have been breeding alpacas since 1997 and have over 250 Huacaya. Lightfoot is a closed herd, we believe that the bio security and health of our animals is paramount to their breeding and care. We have a range of colours and ages, mainly Huacaya and some Suris. Our animals are known for being friendly as we spend time with them and know them individually.
We provide after sales advice and back up services when we sell our animals. Whether you are looking to improve or expand your herd or just thinking of alpacas as pets, why not contact us to arrange a visit.
TEL: 07802 263589 WEB: www.alpacabreeder.co.uk
EMAIL: graham@alpacabreeder.co.uk
Located in rugged and beautiful North Cornwall, we focus on Suri and have a herd of elite alpacas with some of the best and varied Suri genetics in the country. Alongside our own animals we have invested in top quality alpacas from specialists in the UK and New Zealand. Our farm has been ‘custom made’ for alpacas, with biosecurity and welfare of paramount importance, and we love and care for the herd ourselves.
We offer full stud services and in particular Suri starter herds, quality breeding stock and luxury alpaca products.
WENDY: 07712 136949TOM: 07825 105530
EMAIL: tomandwendy@darkskyalpacas.com
WEB: www.darkskyalpacas.com
We are a family run farm in Warfield, Berkshire, breeding high quality Huacaya and Suri alpacas from show winning sires. We would like to welcome you to Scotlands Farm to see our wonderful herd of both white and coloured animals.
We are happy to discuss your requirements, be it for pet males, stock guards, or breeding females to suit your budget but with no obligation to purchase. We have over ten years of experience with these adorable animals. Give us a call and let us see if we can help you.
TEL: Sue Hipkin 07770 455533
Lisa Hipkin 07770 455534
WEB: www.scotfieldalpacas.co.uk
Located on the Solway Firth, in Cumbria, King Garth Alpacas is a family-owned herd where we aim to breed beautiful, happy, healthy and friendly alpacas with top show winning genetics. We have alpacas to suit everyone and all budgets; from pet boys to starter herds, elite females and stud males. We offer full support and advice before and after sales.
Please feel welcome to get in touch and chat about your alpaca needs.
We also offer stud services, alpaca experiences, luxury alpaca products.
TEL: 07762 286050
WEB: www.kinggarthalpacas.co.uk
Moralee is a family-run alpaca farm in West Sussex. We care for a herd of high-quality Huacaya alpaca with award-winning genetics.
Our mission is centred on breeding for improvement –focussing on white and light-coloured alpacas with fine fleece in a gentle and caring environment. All our alpaca are kept in small groups, so are used to human contact and receive lots of attention.
Our services include: the sale of Females for Breeding, Drive-by Stud services and Male-Field Pets.
TEL: 07809 731164
EMAIL: claire@moralee.farm
WEB: www.moralee.farm
We specialise in breeding the rare and majestic Suri Alpaca, which account for approximately 7% of the overall UK Alpaca population. A multiple UK award winning ‘Best Small Breeder’ we are home to multiple Champions and Supreme champions in all Alpaca colours, but primarily specialising in top quality black and the very rare grey Suri. We have animals to suit all budgets from groups of pet boys, to elite pregnant female starter herds with Cria at foot, and champion stud males. We also offer stud services from champion fawns and browns to multiple supreme champion grey studs and Champion black studs imported from New Zealand, bringing the top black genetics into the UK if you are looking to introduce new genetics into your herd.
TEL: Paula 07540 124768 Mark: 07748 844990 EMAIL: prwinsor@icloud.com / mwinsor@me.com
Established in 2002 and situated on the North Cotswold hills close to the picturesque village of Snowshill, the current herd numbers over 300. We breed both Huacaya and Suri alpacas (approximately 80% are Huacaya). Although our breeding programme is biased towards the darker colours, we do also have superb quality whites and beige alpacas.
Full range of alpacas for sale, attractive pets to top show quality breeding girls and stud boys. Large choice of stunning stud males available to service your girls. Also offering natural alpaca fabrics made in the UK from the fleece of our own herd.
TEL: 01386 853841 or 07711 044106
EMAIL: snowshillalpacas@btinternet.com
WEB: www.snowshillalpacas.com
Pottery Alpacas are a family run farm located in Blackburn, Lancashire, we focus on breeding high quality animals from elite bloodlines. We have a wide range of alpacas for sale, with everything from Pet Quality males and females to Stud males and show quality stock. We offer first class support and advice with every purchase and are more than happy to discuss your requirements with no obligation. We are here to help you every step of the way on your alpaca journey! Herd Reduction Sale
MARK: 07540 115329 AMANDA: 07882 456084
EMAIL: mark@potteryalpacas.com
WEB: www.potteryalpacas.com
The Specialist Country Store in Herefordshire.
Breeders of Huacaya Alpacas, Pygmy goats, Poultry, Zwartble and Ouessant sheep. Point of lay Hybrid hens available ALL YEAR – Seasonal selection of bantams, ducks and quail. Extensive range of supplies, equipment, bedding and poultry housing. Specialist feed merchant: Alpaca; Pygmy goat; Pot-bellied pig; Poultry pellets with wormer; Organic Range, Hay, Straw, Dog Food (Skinners, Dr John, Vet Spec, Hypoallergenic) Visitors welcome:
Tuesday-Friday 9am-4.30pm Saturday 9am-12.30pm
Hope under Dinmore, Leominster, Herefordshire. HR6 0PX.
TEL: 01568 797314 EMAIL: info@wynnes.co.uk
WEB: www.wynnes.co.uk
Based in North East Warwickshire we offer over 120 pedigree alpacas in all colours, ages and price ranges. We run a number of prizewinning stud males and offer on farm and mobile mating services. We are confident that our prize winning herd will live up to all your alpaca expectations. Shirley and I have been qualified BAS judges for a great number of years and have judged throughout the UK and Europe. We run regular alpaca husbandry workshops every month throughout the year. We have been breeding alpacas for 25 years and are dedicated to sharing our extensive experience to guide you towards realising your own alpaca aspiration whatever that maybe. Please ring to book.
TEL: Shirley 07970 626245 / Rob 07973 123008
EMAIL: shirley@toftalpacastud.com / rob@toftalpacastud.com
WEB: www.toftalpacastud.com
15 years of selective breeding and dedication has successfully proven our genetics both in and outside the show ring, winning multiple championships and of course one of the British Alpaca Futurity’s major Best Breeder awards.
We offer a range of courses including: ‘Introduction to alpacas’, ‘Birthing’, ‘Husbandry’, and a day long ‘Advanced’ course. Alpacas for sale in all colours, at prices to suit all pockets, but more importantly from elite herd sires and proven bloodlines.
Our farm in Hertfordshire offers: feed, supplies, coats, halters etc. Importantly we deliver total customer care. See website for customer reviews and details of our award-winning herd sires.
tel: 01763 271301 or 07802 433155
emAil: beckwith904@aol.com
Web: www.hertsalpacas.co.uk
Faerie–Tale Alpacas is a small family run farm based in Kenilworth in Warwickshire J15 of M40. We focus on breeding sound, healthy, friendly, elite alpacas with gorgeous fleeces and top class genetics at very reasonable prices.
We know each alpaca and have most colours available from blue black to dazzling white. Whether you are new to alpacas or wish to expand your herd we have an alpaca to suit you! Prices to suit all budgets and with full after sales support given.
We offer:
• Quality breeding stock • Starter herds • Stud services
• 2 hour alpaca experiences • Alpacas for weddings and events
• Luxury range of hand knitted alpaca garments and accessories using our own fleeces
TEL: 07950 671672 FACEBOOK: Faerie Tale Alpacas
EMAIL: info@faerietalealpacas.co.uk
WEB: www.faerietalealpacas.co.uk
FIBRE BUYERS AND PROCESSORS
Classic Carder produce a full range of British, handmade drum carders for fibre preparation. Featuring our unique interchangeable drum system which allows quick and easy drum change for carding different fibres.
TEL: 01746 714130
EMAIL: paulbrittain@mac.com
WEB: www.classiccarder.co.uk
ALPACA FIBRE
COLLECTION 2023
We buy fibre shorn from all parts of the alpaca and collect from your door in most areas of the UK.
We will purchase fibre from current/previous seasons if kept in good condition so don’t let it go to waste!
Collection times/dates to suit your shearing schedule.
Part of the Standard Wool group
TEL: Michael Cooke 07494 151166
EMAIL: michaelcooke@dbwools.co.uk
WEB: www.standardwool.co.uk
The family run JandJ Alpaca herd was established in 2005 with four breeding females, today we have over 90 beautiful animals. We are located in Lincolnshire on the Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Leiceistershire border just off the A1.
With years of experience our aim is to help you choose the best alpacas to start you journey, whether it be breeding females, stud males or pet boys.
Stud services also available from top coloured genetics.
TEL: Martin or Clare 01636 626990
EMAIL: sales@jandjalpacas.co.uk
WEB: www.visitalpacas.co.uk
RETAILERS/WHOLESALERS IN BRITISH ALPACA PRODUCTS
M.R.Harness was founded in 1995 after existing part time for a number of years. Mary herself is a qualified engineer and is well placed to assess materials and their useage. Company policy is to test as many of the webbing designs as possible before release, as each item is unique to the animal it is designed for. This has led M.R.Harness to become the supplier of choice for headcollars, leads, coats and harness for all the various smallholding animals, but specialising in alpacas and llamas, and working ponies.
All items are hand crafted ‘in house’, in England, so you can be assured of good workmanship and quality products that last.
So please come and try the ‘Choice of Champions’.
TEL: 01299 896827 EMAIL: mary@mrharness.co.uk
Everything you need for your alpacas delivered to your door! We are a one-stop-shop for alpaca supplies, including headcollars and leads, vitamins and nutritional supplements, healthcare and welfare supplies, colostrum, coats for cria and adults and microchipping equipment.
We also have a good selection for your other animals, including dogs, chickens and horses, as well as a range of farmhouse items and gifts, including our famous home cheese-making kits.
We are alpaca owners ourselves and we are always happy to help with your questions and enquiries.
Order direct from our website or by phone. You can expect fast, friendly service and advice.
TEL: 01295 713188 EMAIL: homesteadfarms@btinternet.com
WEB: www.homesteadfarmsupplies.co.uk
ANIMAL HEALTH
High specification organic chealated nutritional supplements suitable for all camelids.
• Premier Camelid Drench
• Premier Mineral Supplement
• Premier Mineral Bucket
• A, D3 & E Paste
TEL: 07866 607466
EMAIL: jganimalhealth@aol.com
WEB: www.jganimalhealth.co.uk
Chatting to Carol Kirkwood is humbling as she constantly plays down her obvious achievements and experience but peppers her chat with brilliant insight into alpaca behaviour which can only be gleaned by a real passion combined with keen observation of how they interact. In addition her obvious joy in the beauty of these animals, their calm natures and a desire to the best possible in terms of breeding, make her an inspirational interviewee.
But why alpacas? Carol returned to the family farm and wanted something she could look after herself and she says that by and large she can, with some help from Gina, her daughter. Carol also wants to give a big ‘shout-out’ to Mark, her husband for all his support.
Carol said: “They lend themselves to quiet care as they are calming by nature (to be around them we need to be calm and not erratic in voice or movement). An alpaca is a flight animal so if you throw your arms around they will end up in the furthest part of the field and not come anywhere near you’. Quietly confident – that's what you need to be! They each have their own quirks and you get to know how each one will react.”
She cites the example of a male that she had purchased for walking. “When he came he was fine but as time went on he got more difficult, almost angry with me to the point that I stopped walking him, then one day while feeding them I noticed that even though he was big and bossy he was getting forced away from his food by the other boys, so I started feeding him myself holding a bucket, so the others didn't push him out. Now I can do everything I need to do, just because he trusts me! Even when it's time for injections or toe nail trimming he will just stand because he trusts me”.
Carol said that the stunning views around the Derbyshire countryside near to the peak district were not only beautiful but useful as she can more or less see most of the farm and the alpacas. The weather can be quite breathtaking as well as the scenery so they have just finished renovating a barn. They now have lots of indoor space which is more pleasant for both animals and humans in harsh weather.
They also keep a small herd of Golden Guernsey goats which are a smaller goat but with quality milk. They are also extremely attractive and are as the name suggest, golden in colour. The main reason for keeping the goats was so that when the birthing season starts they have plenty of fresh goats’ milk for the cria.
Carol said: ”The cria don’t often need help but it is definitely a bonus to have milk on tap so to speak. I tend to milk the goats then freeze some of the milk into ice cube bags each cube is about 10ml. This way it thaws quickly when I need it. The goats and alpacas get along with each other just fine but they do live in separate areas.”
Carol has dipped her toe into several activities with alpacas and used to offer experience days which were well received. They’ve also tried alpaca poo briquettes which she says works well but you need to get the fire hot before you put them on. Gina made soap felt (a bar of soap wrapped in alpaca felt so you can wash your face or your dishes with it). She also had some chunky wool made which is great for crafting (cotton core knitting yarn).
>> Continued on next page
‘Seven days a week, 52 weeks a year with the odd day off for good behaviour’. Carol Kirkwood shares her thoughts and feelings on keeping and breeding alpacas with Liz Wright.
Is your relationship with your animals all you had hoped for?
How can Camelidynamics techniques help me on my alpaca journey?
Camelidynamics is an approach to and collection of methods that represent the most positive, least intrusive techniques for training and managing alpacas.
This two day handling course will change the relationship you have with your animals forever.
Understand why camelids behave the way they do and learn kind and e cient methods that are science-based, for safe handling and husbandry that’s fun.
Tell your vet that we have courses for them too. For those interested in nding out how this approach can inform and support your human/alpaca interactions in the therapeutic arena, we are now o ering courses for owners and professionals. Working with Alpacas in Animal Assisted Activity or Therapy.
For more details and to book your places go to www.SimplyAlpaca.co.uk SENIOR
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Commonside Alpaca are breeding Huacaya alpaca as they produce a dense soft crimpy fleece and it is our aim is to improve our gene pool to produce the best fibre possible. Our carefully controlled breeding program means we have alpaca available for new homes.
All interesting things to do but she feels now she wants to concentrate on breeding the best quality alpacas and is putting all her efforts into achieving this.
“I have some good stud males that have been working very hard, so in the future I will have some well made animals that I can sell and hopefully set other people on to the path of keeping alpacas, be it for fun, breeding or guarding their sheep or chickens. Fibre has to be the first objective but there are so many ways for people to enjoy keeping alpacas (whilst getting a good fibre crop)."
One of the joys of keeping alpacas she believes, is that you can enjoy spending time with like minded people and there is always different ways of looking at things such as management and breeding choices. “There is always so much you can learn” she adds enthusiastically.
This year Commonside attended the BAS National Show for the first time with some of their alpacas. She admits they were nervous!
“I must say Gina and I were scared but the animals had no idea what was going on. Before the show we halter trained and then taught them to walk and be handled. We also got them used to walking on unfamiliar surfaces and to go into the trailer but you can't explain to an alpaca that everything is ok when they are in a strange place. Again, it’s down
to trust. We were so happy to be awarded rosettes; we were over the moon. It was a bit of a confidence boost for me, and just made me think that we are going in the right direction and gives us something to work towards. There were some fantastic animals there and breeders who were very supportive. I want to say a big ‘thank you’ to you all for being so welcoming. I can’t wait until next year.”
“Absolutely yes”, she replied without hesitation. “But only if you understand their origins as wild animals and not just fluffy pets to be cuddled”.
Carol’s aim is to breed the best animals she can, to learn as much as she can and to enjoy every single moment spent with them.
“Alpacas have changed my life forever and I could not imagine life without them now” she says sincerely, “I want other people to be able to feel that way too.”
