Experienced shearer has the World record in his sights

An experienced shearer will be making a record-breaking attempt to shear more than 754 lambs in eight hours later this week.

Steve Rowberry, who is 34 year’s old was born and raised in Herefordshire and has been shearing since he was 20.  Steve is now running his own farm based in Chapel Lawn in Shropshire.

Steve will be doing an 8 hour lamb shearing record, setting a new British record and trying to beat the current World record held by Jack Fagan.

So what is it about shearing that Steve enjoys, he said: 

“I enjoy the opportunities it gives, and has given me, travelling the world whilst working, the camaraderie and being paid to do something I love. 

“Days start early as the shearing run is nearer home and is about an hour’s drive. I meet the other shearers and woolhandler and drive to the farm or depending on sheep quantities at the farm, it may include a few farms during a normal day. Once finished, I head home to prepare for the following day and also check on livestock and do any farm jobs that need doing”. 

Attempting the British record has always been a personal target of Steve's but he decided to upgrade this and attempt the World record in memory of his youngest brother Fred, who passed away last September. 

Supporting and encouraging the next generation is important, Steve said: “There are so many inspirational personailities in shearing but Frank Lloyd, our host, and Mark Allen have always inspired me.  For anyone wishing to learn and develop their shearing skills I would advise they attend as many British Wool courses as possible, always listen to advice, keep asking questions, and travel the World for as much experience as you can”. 

Away from working on the farm and shearing, Steve’s hobbies include competitive shearing in shows, spending time with his 2 children and socialising with friends.

Gareth Jones, Head of Member Engagement at British Wool said:

“Record attempts are an excellent opportunity to showcase the highly skilled individuals driving the industry forward while also helping to promote the quality of British wool to wider audiences”.

Fundraising and support will take place on the day towards the Birmingham Children's Hospital which is close to the family hosting the record’s heart.