Summer Of Shearing Success

British Wool has been celebrating the success of four ambitious shearers who set a series of new records this summer.

Nick Greaves, Llyr Jones, Lloyd Rees and Marie Prebble succeeded in their attempts to break or set shearing records at special British Wool sponsored events across the country which also raised money for various charities.

Nick Greaves and Llyr Jones were the first to make it into the record books when they set a new Two-stand 9 Hour British Lamb Shearing record in Staffordshire on 12^th August. Together they sheared a total of 1,717 lambs, beating the previous record of 1,457. Nick also set a new individual British record that day with his individual tally of 881 lambs. The pair had been preparing for the challenge since summer 2021 including following a strict fitness regime. “Both Llyr and I are delighted,” said Nick. “It’s not been easy getting here, but all the hard work and preparation has paid off.”

The individual 9 Hour record was broken again later that week by Lloyd Rees who successfully sheared 902 lambs in his attempt in Builth Wells, Powys. Lloyd said that the record had been a long-time ambition: “To shear over 900 in a day made the occasion even more special.”

Then on 25^th August Kent-based Marie Prebble set the first Women’s 8 Hour Strongwool Ewe World Record after shearing 370 ewes in Launceston, Cornwall. “I am very aware that not just anyone gets to attempt a world record,” Marie said afterwards. “I’m honoured to have that opportunity.”

Gareth Jones, head of member communications for British Wool said: “We are so proud of what these young people have achieved in their careers so far and particularly with their records this summer. Their skills, dedication and professionalism are a real credit to the industry.

“All four started their careers with British Wool shearing courses and attribute the development of their skills and passion to that essential training. Our courses teach new entrants of all ages how to handle sheep and how to shear safely, effectively and with the highest welfare standards.”

The programme of courses also covers related skills such as crutching, maintenance of shearing equipment and how to handle, prepare and pack fleeces to the highest standards to achieve the best possible price. British Wool also offers bespoke on-farm training courses for groups to improve specific skills within teams.

“These skills are so important to the industry so we see provision of this training as a vital part of our role in supporting the sheep industry,” said Mr Jones. “Anyone interested in our training opportunities can visit our website for details including how to book a place on a course.”

As well as providing shearing training Mr Jones reminded sheep farmers of the organisation’s drive to increase demand for British wool and wool products. “We are working hard across the supply chain to improve efficiency and to increase demand from manufacturers, retailers and consumers by continually shining a light on wool and its fantastic qualities.

“Our licensing scheme has been a great success with manufacturers keen to source sustainable and traceable British wool and to use our mark to demonstrate this to consumers. We will continue to develop those links and fly the flag for British sheep farmers whenever possible.

“Of course, in order to return the best price for all members it is important that all sheep farmers work with us. It’s been fantastic to see deliveries coming in across the season so far and would like to remind members that they can continue to deliver fleeces to their nearest depot or collection point.

“We continue to offer free onward haulage to anyone delivering to one of our collection points across the country.”