8th Win for Upland Sheep Farmer

Stuart Wood, of Wethercote Farm, Bilsdale near Helmsley, North Yorkshire, has won the coveted Moorland Association Rose Bowl Trophy for the eighth time. Awarded for the best pen of ewes ‘hefted’ to the North York Moors, the silver trophy was presented at the famous Fadmoor Sheep Sales by Mr Peter Woodall of Cundall Auctioneers, after the pen of Swaledale ewes had sold at the good price of £138/head.

Mr Wood is a tenant farmer, with 1000 Swaledale ewes on Mexborough Estates’ Bilsdale West Moor, which is managed in tandem for red grouse.  His father farmed the land for 60 years before Stuart picked up the reins 10 years ago. Mr Wood put his success down to a combination of good breeding and good shepherding – including through the winter months.

Mr Wood said: “We are delighted to have won this trophy again. We liaise closely with the Estate moorland gamekeepers to ensure that, between us, we manage the habitat so that the red grouse and the sheep get the best out of it.  In addition, we protect the sheep from ticks and diseases through dipping and vaccination which has a knock-on benefit to susceptible moorland birds - such as curlew and grouse - that thrive in this managed landscape. It is crucial to get the very best out of every sheep focusing on quality not quantity to ensure a viable business to pass on to our children.”

Said George Winn-Darley, Moorland Association Committee Member for the North York Moors said: “Sheep grazing and grouse moor management go hand in hand to keep our internationally important heather moorlands thriving. Well managed flocks are key to ensure the best for our heather moorlands and the public benefits these treasured landscapes bring, such as rich wildlife and an important economic boost to local communities.

“The Moorland Association Rose Bowl Trophy is awarded to encourage continued good grazing practice. Mr Wood’s husbandry is an excellent example of how consistently managing sheep numbers, grazing patterns and health aspects can produce quality ewes, whilst helping to protect the precious heather moorland on which they survive.”

For further press information please contact: Amanda Anderson, Anderson PR Ltd on: 0845 458 9786 / 07979 851123

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