| 2014-02-26 |    |
More Records for the Beef Shorthorn
The Beef Shorthorn Society has reported a record level of uptake. Registrations were up 67% in the last five years, and they are still continuing to increase with the rolling 12 month average at 3,654.
In addition, over the same period, membership rose 29% to 723, society chairman, Mark Holmes reported at its annual meeting.
Honorary Life
Vice President Hon. Gerald Turton
© Jennifer Mackenzie
The society’s trends are mirrored in recent BCMS data which shows
a 42% increase in Beef
Shorthorn and Beef Shorthorn cross registered
cattle since 2008; the largest increase of any breed.
Pedigree sales also hit an all-time high in 2013 with a record
average price for both bulls and females, which sold for an average
of £4,305 and £2,217 respectively.
Honorary Life
Vice President Major John Gibb
© Jennifer Mackenzie
Mark Holmes commented:
“My aim is to continue the success of the breed
and further its promotion as an ideal functional suckler cow when demand
has reached record levels. The increase in registrations and memberships,
coupled with BCMS data indicates that Beef Shorthorn is doing what
it says on the tin. It is proving to be low maintenance, hardy with
the ability to forage.”
He added:
“It continues to be apparent that
the Morrisons
Traditional Beef scheme and its recent increase to
30p per kg has helped to strengthen trade for Beef Shorthorn cross
steers which were a previous by-product. I am thrilled to be chairing
this society and driving forward another prosperous year.”
Two long standing breeders and directors of the society, the Hon. Gerald Turton and Major John Gibb have been made honorary life vice presidents in recognition of their support and commitment to the breed and society.
