HEREFOR D H A PPENINGS
18,000gns! NEW BREED RECORD AT A BREED SOCIETY SALE
Time is running out to book your advert for the 2025 Breed Journal so make sure you contact us if you haven’t already booked.
Please see p10 for a booking form and member rates. For businesses or non members please request rates.
Contact steve.rivers@ herefordcattle.org for further information
COUNCIL MEETINGS
2024/25
Dates for upcoming council meetings
12th November, AGM
Anticipation and excitement simmered as history was made at this year’s autumn show and sale, with the recently crowned 2024 bull of the year, Rempstone 1 Alpha N688 setting a new breed society record. It was smiles all round as he was tapped out as the supreme grand male champion in the morning parade with judge Steve Edwards from Leicestershire complimenting the bull on his incredible top line and correctness of his structure.
Fetching an impressive 18,000gns he is the highest priced bull to be sold through the ring at a breed society sale.
See full Autumn Show and sale report on page 4.
Announcement from our Chairman
Dear member,
We announce that our Director Of Operations, Paul Sneyd, will be stepping down to take on a new role as Commercial Director within the beef supply chain industry. Under Pauls leadership of the day to day running of the Cattle Society we have achieved numerous strategic milestones and celebrated some great times. His dedication and passion have helped shape our journey and we are deeply grateful for his contribution.
Paul will continue to lead Hereford Cattle Society on a day to day basis as normal until he leaves us on Friday 3 January 2025. In the meantime we will be working on a successor for Paul and will keep you all informed of this process.
We wish him every success in this new chapter and look forward to continuing to build on our 5 year strategy vision and to be a leading force in the Pedigree Cattle industry.
Kind regards,
Philip Allman, Chairman
AUTUMN SHOW & SALE
March 2023 born Rempstone 1 Alpha N688 is out of Danish imported dam Rosenkaer Miss World and sired by Dendor 1 Nairobi. Alpha was in good company standing alongside five other March born bulls in his class, but Mr Steve Edwards stated that the wellbalanced bull was looking fresh and showed true power and performance potential. He has made his way up to the Welburn herd in North Yorkshire and will make a tremendous stamp on their females.
Taking the reserve highest price of the day and the top female price of 5,200gns was Castle Mount 1 Tessa 421 from P Massey, Lancashire. This January 2023 born heifer was sired by Kinglee 1 Vanguard and is out of a homebred cow Castle Mount 1 Tessa. Winning her class earlier in the day proved successful as then went on to become reserve female champion, aiding her sale ring success.
Harveybros 1 Ace-of-Spades from George and Sophie Harvey, Glasgow, secured the second highest price bull of the day reaching 5,000gns. The young May 2023 bull has had a successful show season collecting numerous rosettes including junior and reserve overall male champion at the Scottish National and the morning show efforts were no different, claiming a first in his class. When asked, judge Steve Edwards said that he displayed breed characteristics and oozed style. He then went on to take the junior championship and securing the best pair of bulls alongside stable mate Harveybros 1 A-Ladies-Man, another successful bull for the father and daughter team. A-Ladies-Man also stood as the reserve junior champion alongside Ace.
Dendor 1 Anna Mary 45th secured the second highest female price of the day reaching 4,600gns and went home with Paul and Vicky Moyle of the Porton House herd. Anna Mary won her class amongst a strong entry of heifers born on or between 1st September to the 23rd of October 2022. This success carried on through as she secured the female championship. The heifer comes from a strong family line being sired by Pepperstock 1 Trigger and out of homebred cow Dendor 1 Anna Mary 40th.
Another bull in the money was Kingsland 1 Armalight from Vaughans Farms Ltd, Herefordshire obtaining 4,100gns. The reserve junior champion from the Royal Welsh Show 2024 was sired by Gouldingpoll 1 Moonshine and is out of Kingsland 1 Cassiopeia 5th and finds his way to JC Porter, Bridgwater, Somerset.
Making the trip down from Angus, Scotland was JM Cant and Partners from the Panmure herd. Bull Panmure 1 Admiral had a good start with the morning proceedings, winning the bull born before the 21st February 2023 class. This strong and powerful November 2022 born Romany 1 Thor FR T4 son, then went on to take the reserve senior male and overall reserve championship. Bred out of a Panmure 1 Plum T6 cow, he secured a price of 4,000 gns and will now reside with SC & GL Hartwright at the Spartan herd.
Many congratulations to all vendors on the day and we wish all the buyer’s luck with their new purchases. We would like to thank our sponsors for sponsoring the show and sale.
Visit our full report and results on the website here.
Castle Mount 1 Tessa 421 from P Massey
Harveybros 1 Ace-of-Spades from George and Sophie Harvey
Dendor 1 Anna Mary 45th from DE, ED & AL Jones
Kingsland 1 Armalight from Vaughans Farms Ltd
ANNUAL AWARDS 2024
The awards night, held at the Albrighton Hotel, Shrewsbury is a celebration of hard work and achievement. It’s great to recognise not just individual wins but also the overall commitment throughout the season from breeders who have been accumulating points to try and win one of the nine prestigious trophies on offer.
Much excitement and anticipation filled the room as everyone awaited the evenings proceedings, and to kick off the first trophy, winners Tom and Di Harrison of the Moralee Herd were up first, winning sire of the year with Moralee 1 RHS Prince KR R8. This March 2018 born bull was sired by Cornriggs 1 Knight Rider is out of Coley 1 Pippa 356. Having 33 progeny to his name, with many of his offspring being show winners and recently his daughters won the progeny group at the National Poll show this September, proving to be a prolific and successful sire for the Moralee team.
Tom and Di, the devoted husband-and-wife team, were invited to the front of the room for the second presentation of the evening, where they were honoured with the title of Show Herd of the Year. Achieving such an accolade is impressive, but to earn it for the second consecutive year speaks volumes about their commitment and hard work. Their success truly demonstrates that perseverance and passion yield remarkable results.
Another remarkable triumph was celebrated by Simon and Gemma Hartwright of the Spartan Herd. Stockman Luke Murphy was present to collect the award for Poll Female of the Year for Spartan 1 Victoria’s Secret. This exceptional show cow had a stellar start to the
year at the Shropshire County Show, with her success only escalating as the season continued. She concluded her year in style, being crowned Reserve Supreme Champion at the National Poll Show, a testament to her outstanding performance and the dedication of her team.
What a fantastic achievement for Rempstone 1 Alpha N688 and the Ludgate family to win Poll Bull of the year. It’s always exciting to see a young bull make such a significant impact in the show circuit, especially with the support of dedicated stockman like Joe Clarke. Winning both breed and interbreed titles is no small feat, and it was a proud moment for James and Joe to celebrate their hard work.
Unable to attend the evenings proceedings were PRJ & LR Vincent of the Pulham herd but were delighted to receive the accolade of Horned Herd of the year. Having exceptional success at this year’s National Hereford show with their own cattle and animals they have bred and sold on demonstrates the amount of hours Phil and Laura invest into showing and promotion, so it’s great to see them being recognised. This is also the second year in a row they have won this award, an amazing achievement for all concerned.
Returning to the front of the room for the third time that evening was Tom and Di Harrison of the Moralee herd to collect the trophy for the horned female of the year with Moralee Curly C1288. This young heifer is no stranger to this award winning it last year, at just under one years of age. This show heifer won her class at the Royal Welsh Show and was reserve intermediate champion at the National
Hereford Show.
Winning the Horned Bull of the year prize is quite an achievement, and this year it went to Edward Mills with Severnvale Rogue who is now in shared ownership with David Makin, ably assisted by Thea Woollatt. Rogue’s strong performance throughout the show season has displayed consistency and it’s great to see the horned contingent being well-represented.
James Ludgate and Joe Clarke proudly took to the stage again to take the coveted prize of Bull of the Year. Rempstone 1 Alpha N688 a March 2023 born bull is out of Danish imported dam Rosenkaer Miss World and sired by Dendor 1 Nairobi, has been expertly shown throughout the summer season, so it was no surprise to see them centre stage. The bull then went on to set a new breed record with achieving the highest priced bull being sold at a society sale, the following day.
Last but by no means least was overall Female of the Year, which went to SC and GL Hartwright with Spartan 1 Victoria’s Secret. With Solpoll 1 Perfection as her sire and Cleland 1 Glissade 26th as her dam, this 2020 born cow benefits from a lineage of topnotch genetics, so it was no surprise to see her clinch this significant award.
Congratulations to all the winners and participants. It’s inspiring to witness the strength and resilience within the breed, and it’s clear that everyone involved has put in a tremendous amount of effort, proving dedication at these events really highlight the passion of the community.
Visit our full report and results on the website here.
FARMERS WEEKLY FARMING CHAMPION OF THE YEAR 2024
Hereford breeder, Nigel Owens has been named Farming Champion of the Year at the Farmers Weekly Awards held recently. Nigel was recognised because of his honest and brave work on mental health and diversity. Raising awareness about the impact of TB, campaigning for Welsh and UK farmers, supporting the young farmers and being a sporting role model. Congratulations on the award Nigel from us all at the Hereford Cattle Society.
CHRISTMAS CALF SHOW
The Hereford Christmas calf show is being hosted by The Hereford Cattle Breeder’s Association at the Shrewsbury Livestock centre on Saturday 14th December 2024
For further information, please contact: HCBA Secretary Matthew Bailey matt@thefarmbosbury.com
BLUE TONGUE
For all blue tongue information please visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/bluetongueinformation-and-guidance-for-livestock-keepers
5-Year Strategic Plan
STRATEGY 1. Culture & Values
To establish a strong and positive culture that promotes member’s welfare and mental wellbeing as a core mission of the Society. To create a society loved by its members!
The improvement of the culture is the number one priority for the Society.
The values of the Society will be lived out and communicated at all times to members. Key actions will include the following:
• Behaviour at council meetings including the signing of a code of conduct.
• Behaviour at regional meetings.
• Council members and staff setting an example at all events and meetings.
• Calling out bad behaviour when it is seen and reinforcing the values of the Society.
• Communications strategy to include a distinctive presentation of the AGREE values on email footers, show banners, meeting slides, membership packs, newsletters and website.
• A campaign to launch the initiative based around the message of ‘a new voice emerging’.
AAccessible
Treat everyone equally. Encourage everyone to join in from all strands of the Society. Have an open and transparent council and staff team.
GGoals
To be the best Hereford Cattle Society possible within the resources available.
R Respect
Respect at all times. Respecting the Society, breed values, membership personal motivations and values & traditions of the organisation.
E Enjoyable
To make membership fun. To make enjoyment the main reason people want to join the Society.
Educational
ETo be a Society where members can grow in their knowledge and love of the breed. To create learning resources that members can use to establish successful pedigree herds and beef rearing enterprises.
MENTAL HEALTH
Poor mental health in farming is 46% higher than in other occupations. Yet rural communities have less access to support.
Sadly, every week, at least one person in the farming community will take their own life.
Thankfully there is help and support out there both locally and nationally and we aim to cover this subject more and provide information and links for our readers.
Through their helpline 03000 111 999, The Farming Community Network provide support for health issues including stress, drepression and addictions. https://farmwell.org.uk
YANA offer help for those involved in agriculture and other rural businesses affected by stress and depression. Their helpline is 0300 323 0400 or email helpline@yanahelp.org
The DPJ Foundation is a mental helath
charity supporting those in agriculture in Wales. they offer help and support via their helpline 0800 587 4262 or by text 07860 048799
UPCOMING EVENTS
1st November Borderway Agri Expo
6th November Agrifest South West
16-17th November English Winter Fair
25-26th November Royal Welsh Winter Fair
14th December HCBA Christmas Calf Show
For a full list of Shows and events visit the event page on our website here
rabi.org.uk offer bespoke mental health counselling in person, on the phone, via video call or click and chat. 0800 188 4444.
A Herefordshire charity, We are Farming Minds, offers 24hr support on 0808 802 0070 and can also provide funding for professional counselling. https://www. wearefarmingminds.co.uk
Farm Safety Foundation are an independent registered charity that helps farming organisations and young farmers to better understand farm safety, mental well being and promote change to attitudes towards risk-taking. For further information visit the website https://www.yellowwellies.org/
LINEAR CLASSIFICATION SCHEME
Council have decided that bulls over 30 months of age can now be classified. Pricing remains the same.
Click here for Full information and Prices https://www.herefordcattle.org/linear-scoring/
CALF MANAGEMENT LETTER
As from July 1st, the calf management letter transitioned to ‘C’.
While this change is not mandatory, it can greatly aid in managing your herd and simplify the process when registering new animals being able to quickly identify a batch or year.
Hereford Breed Journal 2025 Advertising Booking Form
Please complete and return to steve.rivers@herefordcattle.org
Date Name
Herd / Company:
Address
Size
Postcode
Position:ROP
Cost _________________________________________ (Prices are subject to VAT)
Copy Deadline 30th October 2024
Signed
Sizes and Specifications
Full Page (Portrait): ....................................................................................................................................
Bleed size = 210mm (width) x 297mm (height) trim plus 3mm bleed (216 x 303mm)
Type Area Size = 188mm (width) x 276mm (height)
Half Page (Landscape): ............................................................................................................................. @£250
Size = 188mm (width) x 133mm (height)
Quarter Page (Portrait): ............................................................................................................................ @£150
Size = 90mm (width) x 133mm (height)
Artwork should be supplied as final press ready pdf with all images and colours cmyk (not rgb) and minimum 300dpi and should be sent to steve.rivers@herefordcattle.org by 30th October
All copy and artwork should be sent to: Steve Rivers, Hereford House, 20 East Street, Hereford HR1 2LU
Tel: 01432 275566, steve.rivers@herefordcattle.org
For adverts requiring layout by us, please supply text in Microsoft Word format and images as 300dpi cmyk by 30th October To maintain the quality of the journal, please ensure submitted photographs are of the highest quality. Professional photography is preferred and we can supply a list of specialist livestock photographers from across the country if required. All advertisers will receive a proof for approval prior to final printing. Any major alterations to original copy provided will be subject to an author’s correction charge. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for any advice or assistance in laying out your advert.
Adverts will be invoiced upon publication. This will be approximately end of January 2025. Payment terms, within 30 days of invoice date made payable to Hereford Cattle Society. Bank details will be on your invoice for payment.
Hereford BREED JOURNAL
INTRODUCTION TO EMMA AND STEVE
Emma Edwards and Steve Rivers recently joined our marketing team at Hereford House.
Emma has been involved in the Hereford breed since 2015 joining forces with her now husband Richard, breeding pedigree cattle under the Classic prefix. Emma is also the UK Hereford Youth Coordinator founding the youth programme in 2016, growing the membership up to over 100 young members.
She is also an advocate for promoting the younger generation into the industry and is the director and founder of the brand YoungStock, helping children to improve their agricultural knowledge through the power of reading. A strong educational professional with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture and rural business management and a master’s degree in children’s publishing. Emma is also an NFU Farmers for Schools Ambassador, Just Farmers media trained and winner of inspirational women in agriculture at the Southwest Farmers Awards.
“I feel very passionate about our breed and look forward to working with members and the wider community to promote and enhance the Hereford breed, and relish the opportunity to connect with Hereford enthusiasts far and wide”
Steve has produced the Hereford Breed Journal for 17 years.
Working closely with staff at Hereford House he has also advised on and produced a wide range
of marketing and promotional material including leaflets, advertising, show stand display signage and banners and merchandise.
In addition to his work for HCS, Steve has, through his family business Rivers Media (based at Hereford House), worked for several Agricultural and Cattle / Sheep / Dog Breed Societys, including Three Counties Agricultural Society for many years producing Show Programmes, Livestock and Equine catalogues, marketing material, along with managing advertising campaigns.
He also serves on the committee of the National Vintage Tractor and Engine Club, whose magazine Vaporising is produced by Rivers Media.
A lover of rural life and the countryside he enjoys cycling around Herefordshire and beyond in his spare time.
Steve commented “Having worked on the Breed Journal for many years and gaining an understanding of the Breed and Society, I was delighted to be given the opportunity of extending my role for HCS and look forward to working with the team”
We welcome ideas and feedback from members and readers so please do contact us on hello@ herefordcattle.org”
WORLD HEREFORD CONFERENCE
BRIEF SCHEDULE
Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025
Pre-tour | Herefords in Big Sky Country
Friday, Oct. 17, 2025
Pre-tour | Herefords in Big Sky Country
Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025
Pre-tour | Herefords in Big Sky Country
Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025
Pre-tour | Herefords in Big Sky Country Young Breeders Competition, Manhattan, Kan.
Monday, Oct. 20, 2025
Pre-tour | Herefords in Big Sky Country Young Breeders Competition, Manhattan, Kan.
Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025
Pre-tour | Herefords in Big Sky Country Young Breeders Competition, Manhattan, Kan.
Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025
World Hereford Conference Welcome Reception, Kansas City, Mo. Young Breeders Competition, Kansas City, Mo.
Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025
World Hereford Conference Sessions, Kansas City, Mo. Young Breeders Competition, Kansas City, Mo.
Herefords in big sky country
Oct. 16 – 21, 2025
Breathtaking wideopen spaces and skies stretching for miles encapsulates the beauty of Montana. This pretour will take attendees on an experience seeing Hereford cattle, agriculture history and U.S. landmarks.
Sandhills Sights ANd Mountain views
Oct. 26 – 29, 2025
The sandy soil coupled with the rolling hills have deemed the land of Nebraska the Sandhills. Attendees will depart Kansas City, Mo., on a scenic drive through the Sandhills and will complete the tour taking in astonishing mountain views.
Friday, Oct. 24, 2025
World Hereford Conference Sessions, Kansas City, Mo. Young Breeders Competition, Kansas City, Mo.
World Hereford Conference Closing Reception, Kansas City, Mo.
Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025
American Hereford Association Annual Meeting, Kansas City, Mo. Young Breeders Fitting and Showing Competition, Kansas City, Mo.
American Royal National Junior Hereford Show, Kansas City, Mo.
International Genetics Sale, Kansas City, Mo
Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025
American Royal National Hereford Show, Kansas City, Mo. Depart for Post-tours
Monday, Oct. 27, 2025
Post-tour | Sandhills Sights and Mountain Views Post-tour | Southbound to Cowtown
Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025
Post-tour | Sandhills Sights and Mountain Views Post-tour | Southbound to Cowtown
Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025
Post-tour | Sandhills Sights and Mountain Views
Post-tour | Southbound to Cowtown
Southbound to Cowtown
Oct. 26 – 29, 2025
History and Herefords mixed with some of the most iconic stops on any tourist’s agenda. Flying south to Cowtown, attendees will make stops in the Lone Star and Sooner states on their way to Oklahoma City, Okla.
Young Breeders Competition
Oct. 19 – 26, 2025
Each country represented at the World Hereford Conference can bring a team of four young breeders to take part in the Young Breeders Competition hosted at Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kan., Oct. 19 – 22, 2025, and Kansas City, Mo., Oct. 22 – 26, 2025.
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PLAN YOUR TRIP
IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIELD FARM TOURS LTD
We are pleased to confirm details for those planning on attending the world Hereford Conference in October 2025.
In addition to the brief schedule opposite, the following details are now avaliable for Pre and post Tour options.
Click here for Booking form & conditions
PRE TOUR - HEREFORDS IN BIG SKY COUNTRY
This pre-tour will take attendees on an experience seeing Hereford cattle, agriculture history and U.S. landmarks. Breathtaking wide-open spaces and skies stretching for miles encapsulates the beauty of Montana. Located in the Western region of the United States, Montana is home to 2.5 million head of cattle and some of the most pristine Hereford operations in the country.
Attendees will need to arrive in Billings, Mont., by Thursday, Oct.16. On Friday, Oct. 17, the tour will kick off with ranch visits and will culminate with an evening welcome reception at the Northern International Livestock Expo (NILE) with the option to take in the rodeo. Another night in Billings and then pack your bags for ranch stops on the way to Bozeman, Mont. Attendees will have the chance to explore Bozeman on Saturday, Oct. 18, evening on their own. On Sunday, Oct. 19, enjoy seeing some of the leading Hereford breeders in the U.S. with a dinner that evening. Another night in Bozeman and
Monday’s events will allow attendees to choose to see the sights of the area including one option to go to Yellowstone National Park. On Tuesday, Oct. 21, all attendees will fly to Kansas City, Mo., to prepare for the opening of the World Hereford Conference. This tour includes five nights of hotel accommodations, meals, coach bus transportation and a plane ticket to Kansas City.
Thursday, October 16
Arrive in Billings, Montana
Friday, October 17
Tour NJW Polled Herefords Decker, Montana Attend Hereford Breeder Reception at Northern International Livestock Expo, Billings, Montana
Saturday, October 18
Tour the Public Auction Yards (PAYS), Billings, Montana Tour Mohican Polled Herefords, Laurel, Montana Tour L Bar W, Absarorkee, Montana
Sunday, October 19
Tour Storey Hereford Ranch, Bozeman, Montana Tour Churchill Cattle Company, Manhattan, Montana Cooper/Holden at Cooper Hereford Ranch, Willow Creek, Montana Evening Event at Cooper Hereford Ranch
Monday, October 20
Optional Activities: Explore Yellowstone National Park Gardiner, Montana Visit Historical Belgrade, Montana Local Outdoor Recreation
Tuesday, October 21
Travel from Bozeman, Montana, to Kansas City, Missouri (Airfare Included)
Tour organised by Field Farm Tours. Tel: +44 1636 616060 www.fieldfarmtours.co.uk
Click here for Booking form & conditions
POST TOUR OPTION TO TEXAS SOUTHBOUND TO COWTOWN
History and Herefords mixed with some of the most iconic stops on any tourist’s agenda as attendees head south. On the afternoon of Sunday, Oct. 26, attendees will fly to Fort Worth, Texas, and begin the tour through Texas and Oklahoma. Attendees will stay in Fort Worth Sunday and Monday night. These days will take attendees to leading Hereford operations, learn about marketing cattle via video marketing and take in the famous Fort Worth Stockyards. A visit to an elite cutting horse operation followed by a stop at a prestigious Hereford operation who are leaders in the show ring and also have a presence in the rodeo industry in America. Moving north to Oklahoma, attendees will visit another Hereford operation coupled with their famous Clydesdale horse operation. The tour will conclude in Oklahoma City, Okla., on Thursday, Oct. 30, with flights out of OKC or a continuation of your stay in the U.S. This tour includes coach bus transportation, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday hotel accommodations; meals and a flight on Sunday, Oct. 26, to Dallas-Fort Worth.
Sunday, October 26
Travel from Kansas City, Montana to Fort Worth, Texas
Monday, October 27
Visit GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas Visit Superior Livestock Auction, Fort Worth, Texas Evening in Fort Worth Stockyards, Fort Worth, Texas
Tuesday, October 28
Visit Pilot Point, Texas Tour EE Ranches, Whitesboro, Texas Tour Buck Cattle Co., Madill, Oklahoma Tour D&H Cattle Co., Ardmore, Oklahoma
Wednesday, October 29
Tour Express Ranches,Yukon, Oklahoma Visit National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Evening in the Stockyards, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
POST TOUR OPTION TO NEBRASKA - SANDHILLS SIGHTS AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS
At the conclusion of the World Hereford Conference, attendees will depart Kansas City, Mo., on the afternoon of Sunday, Oct. 26, by coach busses to see the wide-open spaces of Nebraska into Wyoming eventually ending in Denver, Colo., with stops along the way to see Hereford cattle in the U.S. The final stay will be in the historic city of Cheyenne, Wyo., where attendees will enjoy the charm of the city and its unique western style.
This tour will showcase the incredible variety of landscapes the country offers in the central with rolling Sandhills of Nebraska and end with majestic views of the Rocky Mountains in Wyoming and Colorado. At the conclusion, attendees will be able to depart out of Denver International Airport (DEN) or continue their stay in the U.S. This tour includes all meals, coach bus transportation, and hotel accommodations for Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Wednesday night hotel is not included in fee.
Sunday, October 26
Travel from Kansas City, Montana, to Lincoln, Nebraska.
Monday, October 27
Tour Hoffman Ranch, Thedford, Nebraska. Tour Snowshoe Cattle Company, Arthur, Nebraska.
Tuesday, October 28
Tour Van Newkirk Herefords, Oshkosh, Nebraska. Tour Olsen Hereford Ranch, Harrisburg, Nebraska.
Wednesday, October 29
Feedlot and Ranch Tours (Details to come) Attend National Western Stock Show, Denver, Colorado, facility hosted by Colorado State University
SHOWS ROUND UP
As we near the end of the Show season for 2024, we look back at the most recent successes. For full reports please visit our website here.
National Poll Show
The National Poll Hereford Show is icing on the cake for team Rempstone, with Rempstone 1 Alpha N688 dominating the show.
Out of Danish imported dam Rosenkaer Miss World, and sired by Dendor 1 Nairobi Rempstone 1 Alpha, from breeder M. Ludgate, Thame, Oxfordshire, took the male and supreme championships, marking a significant win for all concerned. Judge William Smith from Oldcastle, County Meath, Eire commented on this outstanding bull, saying he has exceptional plates and hind legs, excellent locomotion and has great balance. William went on to say that the bull had a great future within the breed.
The March 2023 born bull has had an impressive run throughout the summer, taking many championships up and down the country and most recently, Alpha won the breed and interbreed championships at the Edenbridge and Oxted Agricultural Show. It not only highlights Alpha’s exceptional qualities but also showcases the strength and potential of the Native breed.
Alpha took further victory in the interbreed championship and is a testament to his outstanding characteristics. Judge Becky Hurd from Somerset stated that he is flawless, especially given the high standards and competition from both native and continental breeds. Standing in the reserve supreme spot was Spartan 1 Victoria’s Secret from S.C and G.L Hartwright, also from Oxfordshire. It was no surprise that this veteran cow challenged the bull to the top position, as she also has many championships under her belt, including Great Yorkshire Show, Staffordshire and Royal Highland Show to name but a few. Taking nothing away from her on the day,
judge William stated that the cow looked fresh and carried herself exceptionally well.
With Solpoll 1 Perfection as her sire and Cleland 1 Glissade 26th as her dam, this 2020 born cow benefits from a lineage of top-notch genetics. Solpoll 1 Perfection’s track record of success and the quality of his offspring clearly shine through. This strong heritage not only contributes to Victoria’s own achievements but also reinforces the reputation of his breeding line. It’s clear that the combination of these winning genes has played a significant role in the outstanding performance.
Kington Show
Rempstone 1 Alpha N688, travelled up from M.Ludgate, Thame, Oxford to take the January to March 2023 Class, Male and Supreme Champion Hereford before going on to be Interbreed Beef Champion and Champion of Champions at the North Herefordshire Show.
Judge Richard Jackson, Eveter Herefords, Lancashire commented “Alpha’s got the length, width and locomotion. The kind of bull that you’d want to use.” Alpha is a son of Dendor 1 Nairobi and his dam is a danish import Rosenkaer Miss World, he now goes on to the Hereford Society’s Autumn Show and Sale in Shrewsbury Livestock Market on 12TH October.
Female Champion & Reserve Supreme Hereford came from Messrs Spooner, Leek, Staffordshire namely Dieulacresse Pansy 17TH. This 10 month old heifer calf sired by Haven Virtual and out of a home bred Dieulacresse Pansy 13TH caught Richard’s eye as soon as she entered her November & December 2023 class.
Industry Leaders
NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION UPDATE
Neil Shand – CEO
The farm gate price for beef is currently at record levels, with £5.25 plus per kilo readily available up and down the country. UK price is nearly £1/kilo ahead of the Irish average, such a large difference always makes me uncomfortable, and all the signs are that this disparity will likely increase.
On the back of these record breaking high beef prices, we have another, less welcome, record to contend with. The number of suckler cows in both Scotland and England has declined alarmingly, and in some cases continues to do so, we now have the lowest numbers of cattle in recent history.
It has been suggested that Scotland has lost over 8400 cows, or approximately 2.0% of the national herd in the past year and England 30,000 cows plus, over 5.0% of the national herd. We are approaching a point where in Scotland and England combined, there will be less than 1 million suckler cows, a frightening and dramatic decrease from the 1.5 million only a few years ago.
It’s bewildering that there is still industry rhetoric, in the press and on social media, which believes the conversion of the non-meat eaters back to beef is a priority. Rather than fight with those who have made a choice not to eat meat, it would be far more prudent to ensure we can offer those who do want to eat meat (the vast majority of our population), enough British beef to meet demand.
It does seem contrary to common sense that, with the current record prices, we appear unable to prevent the decline in numbers. Reasons for this are clearly many and varied and are likely to differ depending on which side of the border you are on. The two countries are miles apart in terms of CAP replacement schemes; England have ELM (Environmental Land Management), and SFI (Sustainable Farming Incentive), while
Scotland have nothing yet, just an agriculture framework bill that gives the existing, and future governments far too much power. That said, Scotland has had continuity of support, and this alone will have slowed down the decline in cattle numbers.
Whether this trend continues remains to be seen, there has been very little adaptation, no movement of policy to deal with the changing tides, just some ill thought out modifications to the beef calf scheme. It’s vital for the security of the industry that clarity is achieved at some point in the very near future, or the downward trend in numbers will continue. On the other hand, England has pressed ahead with new policies which propose farming methods which work in harmony with the environment.
One of the outcomes of this, intended or otherwise, has been the number of tenants removed – in some cases forcibly - as estates take land back, which has accelerated the decline in suckler cow numbers in the uplands of England. It’s a concern that the new schemes, which appear to have proved attractive for large estates to grow bird feed, have achieved the opposite results than the original commitment
intended. Large swathes of big estates are being rewilded, the returns for the owners outweighing the rents that family farms have paid for many years.
We also see large arable farms turning vast areas over to winter bird feed and flower rich grass margins. The uplift in arable farm applications for these standards has been such that, in March this year, a limit was set at a maximum of 25% total farmed acreage to attempt to ensure food production didn’t drop to seriously low levels. It may be too late. So how do we encourage the reverse of the suckler herd decline? Perhaps a minimum beef price, set annually, and let the peaks and troughs of seasonal demand resolve it from there?
It is imperative that confidence is returned to the sector, and financial policies determined to allow longer term business planning. In January 2020, the GB average price for cattle was £3.31; earlier this month it was £5.03, an increase of 52%. Whilst it’s accepted that inputs have been less than steady during that period, but, other than borrowing costs and machinery, they are more or less back to pre-covid/Ukraine levels.
Interestingly, although retail beef price has risen in the same period, the rise is less than 20%, which probably raises different questions! There appears to be plenty of reasons why the national suckler herd should be increasing, and those that go in the opposite direction from the masses will probably reap the benefits. It’s often said that if you see the majority of the industry lurching in one direction, then go the other way! Whilst short-keep finishers have had a another tough period this year, from expensive stores in the spring to a challenging beef price in the early summer, returns for suckled calf producers and breeder finishers remain positive; hopefully positive enough to invoke optimism and a corresponding increase in cow numbers. The previous and incumbent Westminster governments have both implied that food security is high on their agenda. Whilst there was evidence the Conservative government was trying to support agriculture, the £380
million underspend poses questions. The cautious introduction of new payment methods leading to an initial underspend is understandable, but the money that was allocated to agriculture should be committed to the cause. We must wait until the end of the month to learn what Labour’s commitment to agriculture really is; whether their money really is where their mouth is.
Meanwhile the Scottish government has kicked the can down the road for too long, waiting for an unlikely chance for another independence referendum and realignment with the EU. Hopefully agricultural policy in Scotland will now develop more rapidly as the sitting government tries to recover some of the ground lost at the Westminster election. In their own words “focus on the issues that matter in Scotland”. Now we have left the EU behind, the whole UK Agriculture budget comes from, and is passed at, Westminster. It remains to be seen whether the new Labour government will commit to agriculture or whether they will be open to exploitation from others.
As always, personal viewpoints are a real concern, and we can only hope that the government will remember that it’s farmers that produce food, not organisations with other agendas, who always appear to have a disproportionately loud voice at some of the negotiating tables.
A quick note on the long anticipated farm assurance review. which is now complete in terms of input from stakeholders, and we expect the report in November. Hopefully the results will be clear, positive and concise as the last thing we need now is a report that adds more debate to what has already been a talk heavy situation. Time to draw the line and move on. We do need a verification process for food production, and farm assurance needs to be balanced, fair and transparent. Post-BSE, we had British retailers advertising the fact they didn’t stock British beef; those were the ashes from which farm assurance grew. It was needed then, and it’s needed now.
Team announced for WHC 2025
After a lengthy process of challenges and events, the ten USA World Hereford Conference applicants have now been shortlisted down to five.
The process started back in May where all ten members went to Jimmy and Fiona Hodges of the Fellowhill herd and completed tasks that were set. Working together in teams they were asked to create a video for social media purposes to help the viewer better understand genetics and breeding of a cow. Not only did they attack the task with confidence, but they also had fun in the process. Another request was that they teach and assist the other members and attendees present on showing an animal, to explain knot safety and to demonstrate the basic handling skills required to present an animal in the showring.
August saw them attend an organised morning at the Sawley plant of Dunbia. This was an insightful introduction to meat quality and grading. It was sensory overload for the young breeders as they experienced many sights and sounds that not everyone gets the privilege of experiencing. The afternoons proceedings saw them enter the boardroom of the task, aptly named The
Apprentice meets Dragons Den. More team work prevailed, and challenges asked that nobody foresaw. It was a long day, with everyone giving their all, and that included the judges.
The final encounter was an interview over zoom. This enabled the judges to really talk in length to the individuals and establish their experiences, knowledge and ambitions for the future.
Fortunately for everyone involved there have been times of socialising and fun too. Bonding over the Hereford breed that connects them, sharing stories and facing the odd banter, contributes to the camaraderie of the time they have spent together. Unfortunately, however, only five could be selected and we are excited to announce that Will Awan, Iona Smith, Ethan Brook and Cara Doggett will be representing the UK and the Hereford Cattle Society. Emma Dexter, the fifth member of the team will be the ambassador and will play a vital role in promoting our society, values and the UK.
We would like to congratulate all ten for putting themselves forward and to the five who were successful.
CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS
Don’t forget to reach out and get involved with your local Club or Association
Midlands & East Anglia
Hereford Breeders' Association
Peter Moyes, secretary 07767 353205
petermoyes@btinternet.com www.meahba.co.uk
Hereford Cattle Breeders' Association
West Midlands
Matthew Bailey, secretary 07557 951830
matt@thefarmbosbury.com
South of England
Hereford Breeders' Association
Nick Williams, secretary 07977 135624
sehbasecretary@gmail.com www.southofenglandherefords.co.uk
North of England
Hereford Breeders' Association
Phil Massey, secretary 07878 665309
nehbasecretary@gmail.com www.northernherefordcattle.com
National - Traditional
Hereford Club
Sarah Cook, secretary 07771 333303
alcroftcattle@hotmail.co.uk www.traditionalherefords.org
South Western
Hereford Association
Shelly Locket, secretary 07472 998868
shellylockett@icloud.com www.herefordsouthwest.com
National - Hereford Club
Horned & Dehorned
Sarah Cook, secretary 07771 333303
alcroftcattle@hotmail.co.uk
www.nationalherefordclub.co.uk
Northern Ireland
Hereford Breeders' Association
Stephen Cherry, secretary 07779 036556
steviecherry_69@yahoo.co.uk www.herefordni.co.uk
Scottish
Hereford Breeders' Association
Pauline Wason, secretary 07855 237474
saltireherefords@btinternet.com
Dyfed
Hereford Breeders' Club
Liz Roderick, secretary 01792 390389
tombankfarm@aol.com www.welshherefords.co.uk
North Wales
Hereford Breeders' Club
Audrey Morgan, secretary 01745 833012
morganfardre@btconnect.com www.welshherefords.co.uk
Powys
Hereford Breeders' Club
Glenn Pritchard, secretary 07903 021680
gpritcharf@gmail.com www.welshherefords.co.uk
