NSA Sheep 2011, the NSA Northern region’s biennial event, was hailed as a resounding success with a tremendous attendance of farmers, trade exhibitors and breed representatives at West Nubbock Farm, Hexham, Northumberland on Wednesday 8 June.

More than 7,500 visitors attended including overseas visitors from five different countries, including official inward missions from Brazil, Romania, and Switzerland, while the crowd was keen to discuss business with the 250 trade stands, which included over 40 breed societies and associations.

The event, which was organised by the NSA Northern region and officially opened by NSA president, His Grace The Duke of Montrose and Defra chief veterinary officer, Nigel Gibbens was deemed the most successful ever to be staged in the northern region, according to event organiser, Julie Sedgewick.

“NSA Sheep 2011 reflected the current buoyancy in the marketplace, together with optimism for which sheep farmers are renowned. Despite the numerous challenges currently facing the industry, including EID, the imbalance between the environment schemes and ability to produce food, and uncertainty following the next CAP reform in 2013, there was a huge upbeat feeling to the event,” she said.

“Exhibitors reported orders placed, the demonstrations proved to be popular along with Ready Steady Cook, and each of the seminars attracted a packed attendance. There is no doubt that sheep farmers have a thirst for knowledge and the event demonstrated their enthusiasm to learn more about a wide range of issues affecting their business from scab, and environment issues to marketing matters.”

Plans are to stage NSA Sheep 2013 in Yorkshire.