Hereford Happenings Feb 25

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Benefits for members:

Support DNA testing for pedigree identification and disease services

Updates with the latest developments and research that may affect Hereford Cattle Management and promotion of regular Hereford Cattle Society shows & sales, along with the annual Awards Dinner.

Collects and compiles available performance data on Hereford Cattle

Collaborates with academic research wherever possible

An online database search facility

Annual Breed Journal

1,227 Members

12 Associations & clubs

Dedicated support

And much more...

Scan the QR Code to vist our new members page

Access to premium Beef Schemes

BREED JOURNAL 2025

With the recent arrival of the 2025 Breed Journal in members mailboxes, the society would like to thank everyone who played a part in its creation.

AUTUMN SHOW & SALE - DATE CHANGE!

Please note the date for our Society Autumn Show and Sale at Shrewsbury Auction Centre has changed from the originally published 18th October 2025 to Saturday 4th October 2025. The Annual Awards Dinner will take place on Friday 3rd October at the Albrighton Hotel, Shrewsbury.

This change was necessary to avoided clashing with other events

Whether through reports, farm visits, stories, attending shows, or advertising, your contributions and support have been invaluable in making the Breed Journal possible.

Additional copies can, of course, be collected from the Society’s Office or at any of the Shows and Events at which the HCS has a presence, free of charge. Alternatively, a digital version is also avaliable online via the website.

Plans for the 2026 Breed Journal will soon be commencing and we would love to hear your ideas, stories and news for possible inclusion. Please contact steve. rivers@herefordcattle. org or emma.edwards@ herefordcattle.org

UPCOMING EVENTS

7th-9th March

18th April

19th April

14th - 17th May

16th May

24th May

4th October

& Sale, Borderway, Carlisle

Show & Sale, Shrewsbury Auction Centre

For a full list of Shows and events visit the event page on our website here

SALES ROUND UP

The 2025 Sales season is allready underway with some impressive results.... For full reports please visit our website here

Top trade at February Stirling Bull Sales

This Spring’s February Stirling bull sale was a success with strong demand and solid results. A 100% clearance rate highlights the quality of the animals that were entered. With the bulls reaching good prices, it’s a clear sign that buyers were willing to pay top money for strong genetics and performance.

Sundays live stream added a great element, allowing buyers who couldn’t be there in person to still participate and get a close look at the bulls. It created a great atmosphere, with the show hall full of spectators and discussions buzzing about current trends and high prices in the beef market.

These high prices reflect the confidence in the breed, with two bulls finding homes in Somerset and Orkney, proving that distance is no barrier when purchasing good, strong solid bulls. The healthy competition at this sale, and these prices should encourage breeders to invest in the breed.

Auckvale 1 Almighty 2276A 7000gns price is a clear indicator of the strong demand for top-quality Hereford genetics. Coming from the Kemp family in Durham, this powerful March 2023 bull is sired by Auckvale 1 Tundra 2009T and is out of Auckvale 1 Beauty 1867S. Notable family lines including Dendor and Solpoll have contributed to the muscular structure and success of this bull.

Next in the money was Harveybros 1 A-Ladies-Man from G & S Harvey seeing a price of 4,800gns. This May 2023 born bull has been successfully shown so it was no surprise that he caught the bidder’s eye. Out of a homebred cow Harveybros 1 Crocus N1 and sired by Gouldingpoll 1 Stockman he showed class and power, securing a new home.

1 Apollo from the Criffel Pedigree herd realised a price of 4,500gns. Sired by

Peace P198 and out of

1 Shona, the

red bull oozed style in and out of the ring. The young June 2023 bull demonstrated to the market to favour bulls with solid breeding potential.

Finally, Moralee 1 Bond DC313 from T & D Harrison made a significant impact and is out of the renowned Moralee 1 Kylie cow and sired by Days Calibre G74. The youngest bull on the day displayed strength and conformation to compliment the breed and the four bulls power packed a punch.

Criffel
Wirruna
Criffel
dark

Strong trade for N.I.H.B.A Dungannon opener

There was fantastic trade for Hereford bulls at the Premier Sale held at Dungannon Farmers Mart on Tuesday 11th February with bulls topping at 4500gns leaving an average of £3623 with an 86% clearance rate.

Leading the days prices was Solpoll 1 Alberto from John & William McMordie, Ballygowan. Sired by Herberry 1 Humberto and from the homebred dam Solpoll 1 Amber S13, with a pedigree full of easy calving sires he was victorious in Class 1 in the mornings judging and after a flurry of bids for auctioneer Trevor Wylie to deal with he was eventually knocked down to Nigel Patterson, Portadown.

The same exhibitors also bred the champion and winner of class 2, Solpoll 1 Arizona. Sired by the 2023 Sire of the Year Solpoll 1 Promoter and from the Panmure 1 Henry daughter Solpoll 1 Starlet L6. This powerful and long bull caught the eye of Judge James Nelson and then purchaser Ivan Haire, Dundrod who paid 4100gns to get him.

The youngest class was won by Dungannon based Alan Shaw with Benburb 1 Bert. A son of Moorside 1 Panda out of the imported Fabb 1 Northern Star daughter Appel 1 Starlight this well muscled young bull had been a 1st prize winner at both the calf show and national show and sold for 4300gns to William Toner, Coleraine.

Mark & Lawrence Moore sold the 3rd prizewinning Annaghbeg Flavia for the next best price of 2800gns to J & J Herron, Whitecross. A son of Cave Hill Max his dam is full of home bred genetics.

Ervie Spring Sale of Hereford Bulls

C&D Auctions conducted the annual Spring sale of Hereford and Aberdeen Angus Bulls at Mains of Airies, Kirkcolm on Thursday 6th February 2025 on behalf of John Douglas and Family.

Hereford bulls sold to £4000 for Towford Achiever 333273 from the Achievement family, selling to regular buyer The Campbell Partnership, Galashiels. Followed by Ervie Advance 303095 from the Pansy family, at £3800 which headed to Briscoe Farmers in North Yorkshire.

Official Show Partner of the 2028 World Hereford Conference Confirmed

We are delighted to announce that the Royal Three Counties Show has been declared as the official host show for the 2028 World Hereford Conference.

Established in 1951, the World Hereford Conference (WHC) is hosted by a different country every four years, connecting Hereford breeders from around the globe. In 2028, Britain is at the helm, holding a week-long event consisting of conference sessions, herd visits and a show of cattle that will no doubt be a truly spectacular sight.

Following a competitive process, the official host show is announced as the Royal Three Counties Show, which will be held in June 2028. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Malvern Hills - an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - the show is a notable event in the calendar of Hereford breeders and the

turnout is expected to be bigger than ever. Incidentally, the show, which features one of three neighbouring counties every year, will be hosted by Herefordshire in 2028.

David Prescott, CEO of the Royal Three Counties Agricultural Society said:

"Everyone at the Three Counties is absolutely delighted to have been selected as the host of the 2028 World Hereford Conference. With a history dating back to 1798, when a Hereford Bull took first prize in the first show in Broad Street, we very much see the 2028 Hereford World Conference as a homecoming. It’s a privilege to be asked to showcase Herefords to breeders and enthusiasts from all over the World for what will be fantastic spectacle.”

Matthew Rollason, Chairman of the 2028 World Hereford Conference Committee said:

"The WHC committee were hugely impressed with the ambitious proposal put forward by the Royal Three Counties team, which set them apart from the competition.

The professional support that they have shown so far, coupled with excellent infrastructure and livestock facilities on their modern showground, made it an easy decision.

We look forward to working closely with the team in the coming years."

Further details will be shared with Hereford Cattle Society members and WHC delegates when possible.

If you have any queries, please email Matthew Rollason (matthew.rollason@ herefordcattle.org) or Mike Shaw (thornysure@gmail.com)

DNA & REGISTRATIONS

Submitted calves for registration but not received your pedigree certificate(s)??

1. Have you paid all fees that are due?

2. Was the dam a first-time calving heifer (female having a calf registered for the first time)? If so, have you collected and submitted the required DNA sample from her?

3. Was the calf got by AI? If so, have you supplied a copy of the relevant AI documentation?

4. Did you use a bull owned by another breeder? If so, have they supplied the required service certificate confirming your use of the bull?

5. Is the calf a result of Embryo Transfer? If so, have you collected and submitted the required DNA sample for it?

6. Did you submit a late registration which requires a full DNA parentage verification? If so, have you collected and submitted the relevant sample(s) to our office and supplied a copy of the appropriate passport(s)?

If the applicable criteria have not been met, your certificates will not be issued. Should you have any questions or require assistance on the above please contact Tracey Tracey Thomas - DNA and registrations manager 01432 377520 – Direct line 07494 009226

REGISTRATIONS FEE INCREASE

Due to falling revenues and no price increase in this area for many years council have decided to increase registration fees by 20%. This decision has not been taken lightly and became effective for calves born from 1 February 2025 onwards.

CALF MANAGEMENT LETTER

As from July 1st 2024, 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.

UKHY Update

The start of 2025 has been a busy one for UKHY with three members attending the British Cattle Breeders Conference at the end of January. Cerys Mai Jenkins, Jorja SnookBevis, and youth director Maddie Clarke made the trip to Telford, with the first workshop on myth busting and breaking down barriers of EBV's. This session was organised by AHDB and provided the girls opportunities to network and discuss with other farmers, breeders and industry people about the tool and what gains it may have. Both Maddie and Jorja got on the microphone, not shying away from the challenge.

The conference was aptly titled 'The Herd of the Future' and the following day focused on the beef enterprise with many industry experts and presentations. It was a day of interesting discussions, debates and visions which gave everyone present some thought provoking ideas.

The USA team had their first training session with Emma in Bristol. A great start was made to the planning of their trip with many fundraising chats, logo designs and responsibility decisions. Emma made them take a personality test, which created some fun and interesting conversations. It got

them thinking about their individual traits, alongside teamwork. Preparations are now well underway for their next session being held in March, kindly hosted by Tom and Di Harrison of the Moralee Herd, supported by other breeders.

A sneaky team building exercise in finding the Beefy Boys van proved successful with everyone sampling a tasty Hereford burger.

Stay tuned as they progress through their training programme.

USA TRIP FOR UK HCS

Chairman Phil Allman and Council Member Dave Makin were given a fantastic opportunity to explore the differences between Hereford genetics in the US and the UK. The trip, funded and organised by the government, provided valuable insights into the functionality of the breed in America and how breeding regimes may differ. The mix of discussions and cultural experiences gave them a well-rounded perspective on how Hereford cattle are managed and improved in the US compared to the UK.

Discussions between Phil Allman, Dave Makin, and their American counterparts focused on some important trial initiatives, particularly around gas release and feed efficiency in Hereford cattle. Since the USA has already completed five of their own trials in these areas, it makes sense that they would want to expand that knowledge by conducting similar trials in the UK. By comparing results from both countries, they can better understand which genetics work well in each environment and which may not be as suitable.

This cross-border collaboration could also open up new opportunities to improve environmental sustainability and farming practices. It’s exciting to think about the potential impact this could have on both the UK and US cattle industries.

President and Vice-President 2025

Steve Edwards was elected as our President for 2025. He has been active within the breed for 54 years.

Steve brings with him a wealth of knowledge and expertise having worked across three prolific herds throughout his career. Starting out at Mrs Hardy of Beaudesert Herefords, he then progressed on to Coates and family of the Costhorpe herd. His journey spanned across 30 years where he had many show and pivotal breed changing moments.

After the herd dispersed, he found himself with Mr Pete Cobley of the Kinglee enterprise where he manages the 30-cow herd, with much of the Costhorpe breeding coming with him. Now a breeder in his own right Steve is involved in

syndicate Genesis Livestock alongside Pete and son Richard.

When asked about becoming the president, he said ‘I’m looking forward to networking with breeders old and new, and observing cattle at shows and on herd visits. It is an honour and privilege to be asked and I am very much relishing the opportunity’.

Caroline Davies was elected Vice President and is sure to provide Steve with great support and back up with her own vast experience in the breed.

Steve Edwards receives the presidents badge from outgoing president Allen Massey
Vice-President Caroline Davies

TRIPLETS FOR DYFED BREEDER

Dyfed based member Tony Cadogan of the New Shipping herd, witnessed the rare arrival of triplets by his home bred Cow.

According to google the chances of triplets are 1 in 100,000. Tony needs to buy a lottery ticket!

Herefords of the Year Competitions 2025

Each year the society runs the Hereford of the year competitions, with silverware presented at the society’s annual awards dinner.

Exhibitors flock to the qualifying points shows across the country for their chance to win the society’s prestigious silverware.

Qualifying conditions

Points will only be awarded for shows where there are at least four exhibitors and 20 entries present.

Only the highest points awarded in respect of five of the shows listed will count.

In all instances of the bull of the year competitions, any bull over three years of age will only be awarded points if it has sired three

or more calves registered with the society by its third birthday.

In respect of the poll bull and poll female of the year competitions, no points will be awarded to any animal that is horned or de-horned.

National bull and female of the yearQualifying shows

Ashby, Anglesey, Buckingham, Burwarton, Devon County, Edenbridge and Oxted, Great Yorkshire, Kington, Newbury, Northern Ireland National, Northumberland, Pembrokeshire, Royal Bath and West, Royal Cornwall, Royal Highland, Royal Lancashire, Royal Norfolk, Royal Three Counties, Royal Ulster, Royal Welsh, Scottish National and Shropshire County.

Available points

Grand champion: 5 points; Reserve grand champions: 3 points. Class winners: First: 10 points; Second: 8 points; Third: 6 points

National show herd and national sire of the year - Qualifying shows

Ashby, Anglesey, Buckingham, Burwarton, Devon County, Edenbridge and Oxted, Great Yorkshire, Kington, Newbury, Northern Ireland National, Northumberland, Pembrokeshire, Royal Bath and West, Royal Cornwall, Royal Highland, Royal Lancashire, Royal Norfolk, Royal Three Counties, Royal Ulster, Royal Welsh, Scottish National, Shropshire and the official spring shows and sales. Also, the official autumn shows and sales from the previous year.

Available points

Grand male and grand female champions: 5 points; Reserve grand male and reserve grand female: 3 points; Supreme champion: 2 points; Reserve supreme champion: 1 point

Section champions where applicable

Senior male and senior female champions: 5 points; Reserve senior male and reserve senior female champions: 3 points; Intermediate male and intermediate female champions: 5 points; Reserve intermediate male and reserve intermediate female champions: 3 points; Junior male and junior female champions: 5 points; Reserve junior male and reserve junior female champions: 3 points. Class winners: First: 10 points; Second: 8 points; Third: 6 points

National poll bull and poll female of the yearQualifying shows

Ashby, Anglesey, Buckingham, Burwarton, Devon County, Edenbridge and Oxted, Great Yorkshire, Kington, Newbury, Northern Ireland National, Northumberland, Pembrokeshire, Royal Bath and West, Royal Cornwall, Royal Highland, Royal Lancashire, Royal Norfolk, Royal Three Counties, Royal Ulster, Royal Welsh, Scottish National, Shropshire County and *National Poll Show.

Available points

Grand champion: 5; Reserve grand champion: 3. Class winners: First: 10; Second: 8; Third: 6. Points awarded at the National Poll Show: Grand champion: 6; Reserve grand champion: 4. Class winners: First: 12; Second: 10; Third: 8.

National horned bull and horned female of the year - Qualifying shows

Ashby, Anglesey, Buckingham, Burwarton, Devon County, Edenbridge and Oxted, Great Yorkshire, Kington, Newbury, Northern Ireland National,

Northumberland, Pembrokeshire, Royal Bath & West, Royal Cornwall, Royal Highland, Royal Lancashire, Royal Norfolk, Royal Three Counties, Royal Ulster, Royal Welsh, Scottish National, Shropshire County and *National Hereford Show.

Available points

Grand champion: 5; Reserve grand champion: 3. Class winners: First: 10; Second: 8; Third: 6. Points awarded at the national Hereford show, Tenbury Wells: Grand champion: 6; Reserve grand champion: 4. Class winners: First: 12; Second: 10; Third: 8.

Horned show herd of the year - Qualifying shows

Ashby, Anglesey, Buckingham, Burwarton, Devon County, Edenbridge and Oxted, Great Yorkshire, Kington, Newbury, National Show, Northern Ireland National, Northumberland, Pembrokeshire, Royal Bath and West, Royal Cornwall, Royal Highland, Royal Lancashire, Royal Norfolk, Royal Three Counties, Royal Ulster, Royal Welsh, Scottish National, Shropshire and the official spring shows and sales. Also, the official autumn shows and sales from the previous year.

Available points

Grand male and grand female champions: 5 points; Reserve grand male and reserve grand female: 3 points; Supreme champion: 2 points; Reserve supreme champion: 1 point.

Section champions where applicable

Senior male and senior female champions: 5 points; Reserve senior male and reserve senior female champions: 3 points; Intermediate male and intermediate female champions: 5 points; Reserve intermediate male and reserve intermediate female champions: 3 points; Junior male and junior female champions: 5 points; Reserve junior male and reserve junior female champions: 3 points. Class winners: First: 10 points; Second: 8 points; Third: 6 points.

SPRING SHOW & SALE

Shrewsbury Auction Centre

Show – 9am Sale – 12.30pm

19 FEMALES | 50 BULLS

As the days lengthen and the first signs of Spring are apparent, excitement is building for our Spring Show & Sale. An impressive lineup of animals from top Hereford herds across the nation is anticipated.

This year we will be live streaming both of our Shows and Sales, in addition to other shows around the country.

This provides potential buyers, who may be unable to attend the show in person, with a valuable tool to assess the offerings alongside other resources like Marteye and the online catalogue.

If you’re considering adding new stock to your herd, we encourage you to stay tuned to our Facebook page and newsletter in the upcoming weeks. Here, we’ll be showcasing photographs and videos of the lots available.

Breeders who have entered stock into the upcoming Spring Show & Sale are invited to kindly send images to Emma Edwards, our Marketing Manager.

You can do so via email at emma.edwards@herefordcattle.org or through WhatsApp at +44 7486 023626.

Your cooperation in providing these images will greatly assist us in promoting your animals effectively for the event. Thank you!

British Cattle Breeders Conference

Conference pulls together industry experts, enthusiasts and scientists over the future of the bovine industry.

The conference in Telford January 2025, provided a platform for industry experts, enthusiasts, and scientists to gather and explore the future of the bovine industry. The theme, The Herd of the Future, focused on the challenges and exciting advancements expected in both the dairy and beef sectors. Attendees engaged in insightful discussions and presentations, diving into topics such as sustainability, genetic advancements, animal welfare, and technological innovations shaping the future of cattle farming. It was an opportunity to gain knowledge and share ideas that will influence the direction of the industry in the coming years.

Monday afternoon's workshop brought up some key points about the challenges in engaging beef farmers with EBVs (Estimated Breeding Values). The discussion highlighted the skepticism that exists around the tool, particularly around concerns that data can be manipulated, which might undermine its value in the eyes of farmers. Additionally, it seems that the dairy sector is more adept at utilising data to inform management decisions, which could be due to a greater emphasis on data-driven practices in dairy farming.

To address this issue, industry bodies could consider several approaches to encourage greater adoption of EBVs among beef farmers including education and demonstration, success stories, transparency and simplification. Organised by AHDB, speakers were encouraged that with more industry support and peers knowledge sharing, a more industry wide participation could happen.

Food security matters

Beef day delegates started their day on Tuesday with Professor Nigel Scollan highlighting some key challenges and opportunities in the UK's food security, particularly regarding the role of animal sourced foods. With the UK being only 60% selfsufficient, there’s clearly room for improvement in production, distribution, and sustainability. His mention of "one health" suggests a focus on the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health in food systems. There's a strong case for the nutritional benefits of beef in a balanced diet. With its high protein, iron, and B12 content, beef clearly plays a role in addressing issues like malnutrition and nutrient deficiencies. It’s interesting how livestock

production is positioned not just as a food source but as a key player in public health.

Further discussions covered a broad range of critical topics for the beef industry. Consumer perception is a major factor in shaping demand, especially with increasing concerns about sustainability, animal welfare, and health. Sustainable suckler production is also a key issue, as it impacts both the environment and the longterm viability of farming.

It is also interesting that only 30% of people feel personal responsibility for climate change, while the majority place the burden on farmers and retailers. This highlights a gap in consumer awareness and engagement. While the agricultural sector can make significant changes, real progress likely requires a collaborative effort between producers, retailers, policymakers, and consumers.

That’s a key challenge for the industry, consumers may not take personal responsibility for climate change, but they still expect transparency and sustainable practices from farmers and retailers. This suggests that while demand for sustainability is strong, there’s a disconnect between awareness and action. Understanding consumer demands through data-driven insights, traceability, and transparency is essential for building trust. A solid approach would be to leverage media channels to communicate scientific data which can help bridge the gap between perception

and reality. If consumers trust farmers as much as they do (ranking second after doctors), then farmer ambassadors could be a powerful way to deliver these messages authentically.

The Eat Well Guide is a great resource for educating consumers on balanced diets, but perhaps more targeted campaigns highlighting the sustainability and nutritional benefits of beef could make an impact.

The future suckler cow

The future of the suckler cow seems to revolve around balancing efficiency, sustainability, and meeting market demands. The emphasis on sound structure, fertility, and fat cover suggests a shift towards breeding cattle that are not only productive but also resilient and aligned with consumer preferences. Fat plays a crucial role in both meat quality and the cow’s ability to thrive in different farming systems.

Native cattle breeds often have traits that make them well suited to modern sustainability goals; hardiness, efficient feed conversion, and lower input requirements. Their ability to thrive on grass-based systems and marginal lands could reduce reliance on intensive feed production, aligning with environmental and regenerative farming practices. Speaker Ruth Dalton suggested that cattle breeds from the past may hold the key to the future.

A great way to wrap up the day came from William Mayor of Yeo Valley Farms, highlighting

practical, nature-based solutions within regenerative organic farming. No-fence grazing collars are a fascinating innovation, allowing for controlled grazing without physical barriers, which can improve land management and animal welfare. Using dock beetles for natural weed control is another smart, low-intervention approach that aligns with sustainability goals. There were some strong take home messages - A substantial, not incremental approach suggests that small changes won’t be enough, we need bold shifts in farming practices to ensure sustainability, efficiency, and resilience.

The technology and data integration point is crucial. If different systems (e.g., precision farming tools, supply chain tracking, and sustainability metrics) don’t communicate effectively, valuable insights could be lost.

And trust in farmers is a key asset. Consumers respect farmers, but that trust needs to be reinforced with transparency, education, and engagement.

Dairy Day

The theme for Day 2 "Healthy herd = efficient herd." Prioritising animal health and welfare not only improves productivity but also aligns with consumer expectations and sustainability goals. The emphasis on measuring more and seeking advice reinforces the idea that datadriven decision-making can lead to meaningful improvements. The Animal Health and Welfare Pathway provides funding which is a great incentive for farmers to adopt best practices.

Andrew Thompson’s question about the "visible cow" is an interesting one, suggesting that dairy farmers may need to shift their breeding strategies to keep up with evolving industry demands. The rise of Aberdeen Angus and British Blue in beef-on-dairy systems shows how genetics is shaping both the dairy and beef sectors.

Sexed semen is a game changer for dairy producers, allowing them to breed more replacement heifers while using beef genetics for the rest. But if it’s not benefiting the genetics business, that raises concerns about market dynamics. Dairy farmers can receive a greater income through the beef calf crop.

Sophie Gregory’s approach offers a great counterpoint showing how pedigree native breeds like Aberdeen Angus and Hereford can create a viable business model for dairy farmers diversifying into beef production. By selling beef boxes and supplying restaurants, she’s tapping into consumer demand for traceable, highwelfare, and locally sourced meat.

Another insightful day with strong take home messages. Cattle health is fundamental – A healthy herd = an efficient herd, reinforcing the need for proactive health management.

"You can't monitor what you don't measure" Data driven farming is key to making informed decisions and improving efficiency. Education is crucial. Not just for consumers but also for the workforce, ensuring that everyone involved in the industry understands best practices, sustainability, and the role of technology.

Banbury Office: 6 Manor Park, Banbury, Oxfordshire OX16 3TB banbury@brown-co.com | 01295 273555 For all your business and property needs, our experts have the local knowledge to help you

Banbury Office: 6 Manor Park, Banbury, Oxfordshire OX16 3TB banbury@brown-co.com | 01295 273555

JUDGING POINT SHOWS

For individuals who have been approached to judge at shows this year, it’s important to remember that you should not accept to judge more than one point show in the season.

A comprehensive list of judges is accessible on the Hereford Cattle Society website, ordered in area for reference.

BLUE TONGUE

For all blue tongue information please visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/ bluetongue-information-and-guidance-forlivestock-keepers

National Hereford Herd of the Year competition 2025

During the coming year the following eight areas will, as usual, be organising their individual herd competitions and the winners will be eligible to compete in the above competition.

Midlands & East Anglia South of England North of England South West of England

Northern Ireland Wales

Scotland West Midlands

There will be no restriction on the size of qualifying herds.

All competitors must make available to the master judge all registered Hereford cattle in their herds.

The judging of this national competition will take place during August/September with awards for the first, second and third prize-winning herds being presented at the society’s annual dinner held at the Albrighton Hotel and Spa, near Shrewsbury, Shropshire on Friday 3 October 2025.

Note: Results of the area competitions must be lodged with the society at the beginning of August.

Members wishing to compete for their local competition should apply to their respective area association/club.

AWARDS

The C.E. Rudge perpetual trophy and salver to the overall winning herd.

A salver to the second and third prizewinning herds.

Each area winning herd will also be presented with a small engraved salver.

2023 National Herd of the Year winners TG, EI and EN Thorne

Last year was the 20th anniversary of the Farmers Weekly Awards and ninth decade of the Farmers Weekly magazine. The Farmers Weekly Awards are back, and we're looking forward to honouring more outstanding individuals in agriculture in 2025. Could this be your year to win?

The Awards provide a prestigious opportunity to showcase your dedication, gain well-deserved recognition and create new opportunities for your farm.

Whether you're entering yourself or nominating a deserving member of your network, this is your chance to shine at the most exciting night in the farming calendar.

There are a total of 15 categories to choose from, and can find out more by clicking here.

BRITISH FARMING AWARDS 2025

The British Farming Awards are an excellent platform to recognise the hard work and innovation within the agricultural sector.

We are fortunate to have had many members nominated and subsequently win awards. This demonstrates the high calibre of talent and dedication within our breed, showcasing the achievements in the agricultural sector. There are numerous categories available for entry, allowing individuals to either nominate themselves or others.

Click here to register your interest for 2025 awards

Hereford Miss Europe Presentation, Texas USA

Di Harrison of Moralee Herefords recently attended the presentation for Moralee 1 Kylie KS S3 who won Hereford Miss Europe in the 2024 Hereford Breeder competition.

When invited by organiser PJ Budler, Di didn’t hesitate in making the trip and was joined by fellow showman Helen O’Kane and Lynda Lloyd, leaving husband Tom to “hold the fort” back home and present Moralee 1 Bond DC313 at the Stirling Bull Sale.

Held at a VIP event at the Fort Worth rodeo in Texas, Di was presented the award by the sponsors. Attended by the winners of all the continents, this is the second time Moralee have won the competition, with half brother Moralee 1 Rebel Kicks KS R12 receiving the Champion of

Europe award for his efforts in 2021. To receive these awards on the world stage with home bred animals on two occasions is certainly something to be proud of.

The group were blessed with glorious sunshine for their 5 day trip, and they embraced the Western lifestyle, topping up wardrobes from the Western style shops and enjoying great food, rodeos and country music.

The Fort Worth Stockyards accomodation provided a perfect location to enjoy the numerous spectacles, such as the twice daily Longhorn cattle drive down the main street, and the local rodeo at Cowtown Coliseum where VIP tickets were provided by Ashley Reid.

Fort Worth Stock Show proved very interesting, especially the Hereford show on Monday where the group got to see a different style of Hereford to the UK.

Finally, the awards ceremony took place on Monday evening at Dickies Arena, followed by the stock show rodeo.

Di commented “It was lovely to meet the sponsors and the other award winners and to catch up with Champion of the World winners, Shannon and Kurt Treffiak of MJT Cattle Co. (Hereford & Angus), who we have

previously visited at their ranch in Canada. Congratulations to them for winning with bull CCD Kingsman. We were also joined that evening by good friend Anthony Goss from Houston, and we enjoyed an evening of top class rodeo, dinner and cocktails.”

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

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