All roads lead to Richard Beatties Glenpark Road, Omagh on the Saturday 30th September for the 1st Northern Ireland Swaledale Breeders Show and Sale.  Strongly supported by the leading breeders keen to make a success demonstrated by the impressive 250 sheep brought forward.  The earlier part of the day saw the judging which was left in the capable hands of Tom Robinson from Catlow Farm.  The Reserve Champion was awarded to Eddie Haughey with a Shearling Ram, Cloonemeane Bowie, Sire Oakbank Hercules C45246 and Dam got by Bull & Cave Icon C42745. The Champion of the day went to Fred & June Loughridge with an Aged Tup, bred by I Collinson, Billing Rattler, Sire, Billing Shield Bull & Cave C40770, got by P Ewbank, Dam Sire High Draymans, two very impressive sheep.  The day continued with the sale with a good turnout of bidders, online bidders and buyers keen to get their hands on quality stock, the judge was impressed with the quality of tups brought forward with females very much in demand with a 98% clearance with averages as follows, Gimmer Lambs £74.90, Gimmer Shearlings £109.20, Ewes £82.53, Shearling Tups £335.00 and Aged Tups £400.00.

Thanks to the judge and his wife for making the trip from England and to all the sponsors that contributed towards the Show and Sale to help make it all happen, it was very much appreciated. Thanks to all the bidders, buyers and sellers for making the day a successful outcome.

It is great to see the Swaledale Breed gaining popularity and farmers recognising their great qualities and renowned mothering abilities and with the help of the Shows and Sales we look forward to an expanding future with the breed in Northern Ireland.

Joanne McSwiggan – Secretary

Thanks to all Sponsors, very much appreciated:
Ulster Farmers Union
Glenform Builders Ltd
Thompson Feeding Innovation
Provita
Gary Sproule Mobile Sheep Dipping
Silverbirch Hotel Omagh
P. McSorley & Sons Ltd.
Drumragh Vets
GK 4×4 & Vans Sales
Gary Sproule Plastic Sheep Slats
Bluefrog Bedding

Next is the In Lamb Sale planned for February ****** Dates to be confirmed ******