The appealing combination of interactive workshops with talks from sheep industry experts attracted a record number of attendees at this year’s event, held at Hexham Livestock Market, Northumberland.

NSA Next Generation meeting

The popular event forms part of the NSA Next Generation programme, a scheme dedicated to encouraging and supporting younger sheep farmers. And despite uncertainties of what the future may hold for this particular group of young people, the event was filled with enthusiasm for the sheep sector and a determination from the next generation to move their sheep farming careers and businesses forward.

The event began with six NSA Next Generation ambassadors from the class of 2018 engaging the audience with their experiences of working as sheep farmers in varying situations. Working on the programme, NSA Communications Officer Katie James says:
“Delivering both the positives and negatives of their own personal stories, these were honest accounts of the sometimes difficult situations our young farmers can find themselves in, but throughout all of the presentations shone the passion these sheep enthusiasts have for this sector and for the importance the UK sheep industry has in feeding and shaping our nation.”

The remainder of the day allowed attendees the opportunity to chose from a series of workshops featuring industry experts from across the sector. On offer were sessions on business planning, accessing grants, responsible medicine use, future mastitis control options, the power of social media, maximising returns on wool and understanding Brexit, a range of topics providing the chance for all to take home information relevant and helpful for their own circumstances.

Katie continues:
“This event could not happen if it were not for the backing from industry and our NSA supporters. Thank you to all of those that attended and took part in delivering a workshop, including AHDB, British Wool, Farmers Guardian and Moredun, as well as local vets Scott Mitchell Associates, and of course Hexham and Northern Marts for its support and hospitality.”

Both opening and closing the event was NSA Chairman Bryan Griffiths. Bryan concludes:
“What a fantastic event! It was heartening to see so many young people with a shared enthusiasm for the sheep industry at such a well-organised event. I am certain all those who attended went away better informed on a variety of issues."

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