Next generation to shine at NSA Central Region Winter Fair

The wealth of young talent in the sheep sector will be on show at the National Sheep Association (NSA) Central Region Winter Fair, held at Bakewell Market, Derbyshire, next week (Thursday 29^th January). 

The event will not only showcase the abilities of budding sheep farmers, but also highlight the creativity of young people. The packed competition schedule reflects the event’s theme of ‘Helping sheep farmers move forward’.

The 2015/16 NSA Young Shepherd of the Year competition will kick off at the event, with contestants going head to head in the first of the regional heats. The competition is for individuals aged 26 and under and is a great spectator event, with the contestants showing off skills including quad bike handling, lamb sorting, preparing sheep for sale and sheep handling. The stakes will be high for the competitors at NSA Central Region Winter Fair, as the top two placings will qualify for the national final at the NSA Sheep Event 2016, and a prize pot of £550 will be up for grabs.

Visitors will also be entertained by the Junior Shepherd Competition, which will see teams of school students aged 16-18 put through their paces in a series of practical shepherding tasks.

As well as supporting the next generation of producers, the event will recognise the important role of the creative industries in the sheep sector through a series of competitions encouraging the designers and craftspeople of tomorrow. A photography competition for 16 and unders will find the best pictures on the theme of ‘Sheep and the environment’, and a Schools Wool Challenge will task Year Seven and Eight pupils (11-13-year-olds) with creating an exhibit making the most of wool. All entries for both competitions will be on display on the day for visitors to enjoy.

Event Organiser Anne Payne says: “We are delighted to support the next generation of our industry and give them a chance to show what they can do. It’s hugely important to develop up and coming sheep producers, but the sheep industry is made up of more than just farmers. A whole range of support services are needed for it to thrive, including the design and creation of consumer products. The competitions on offer at NSA Central Region Winter Fair will not only be great fun and provide plenty of entertainment for visitors, they will also offer opportunities for young people to get involved with all areas of the sheep sector.”

NSA Central Region Winter Fair will see Bakewell Mart filled with a range of trade stands, features, demonstrations and competitions, as well as an excellent line-up of seminars. Entry if FREE* to NSA members and only £5 for non-members. Find out more and download an Event Guide at www.nationalsheep.org.uk/crwf.

*One discounted/free entry for up to two NSA events a year per membership held, even if membership in joint names.

Notes to editors:-

• For further information please contact Anne Payne, Event Organiser and NSA Central Region Manager, on 01142 883241, 07803 744437 or bobandanne@handbanktexels.wanadoo.co.uk.
• The National Sheep Association is an organisation that represents the views and interests of sheep producers throughout the UK. It is funded by its membership of sheep farmers and its activities involve it in every aspect of the sheep industry. More at www.nationalsheep.org.uk and www.nsanextgeneration.org.uk.