Record Crowds Flock to NSA North Sheep 2025 in Celebration of UK Sheep Farming
5th June 2025
Despite the challenging weather, NSA North Sheep 2025, held at Greystoke Castle Farm by kind permission of John and Liz Peile and their family, exceeded expectations with an impressive turnout from both local and national attendees. The event welcomed over 240 trade stands and attracted visitors from across the UK and overseas, underscoring its significance in the sheep farming calendar.
The Peile family's diverse and sustainable farming operation was a highlight, with farm tours offering insights into their management of dairy herds, beef cattle, and flocks of hill and lowland sheep. Visitors praised the breathtaking views over the Eden Valley and the informative commentary provided during the tractor and trailer tours.
Educational initiatives were at the forefront, with 250 pupils from local schools participating in bespoke cookery and shearing demonstrations, as well as engaging in farm tours.Feedback from both students and teachers was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the event's role in inspiring the next generation of farmers.
Competitions added excitement to the day. Over 40 dogs competed in the sheepdog trials, with Derek Scrimgeour and Braehead Dot taking top honours.
The exhilarating speed shear event, part of the Northern Speed Shear Circuit, saw Welsh shearer Llyr Jones, the 2024 Welsh Champion, claim victory amidst a packed audience.
Industry professionals led a series of insightful, thought-provoking seminars throughout the day, covering a wide range of key topics relevant to the sheep sector. Sessions included building resilience in a post-BPS world, understanding the practical implications of carbon and biodiversity management on farms, and an engaging discussion on the cultural and environmental value of hefting—highlighting its vital role in sustainable upland farming. A particularly well-attended seminar offered a detailed market outlook, providing farmers with clarity and guidance in a changing economic landscape. The newly introduced Animal Health Area and Cookery Theatre also proved extremely popular, with visitors praising the practical demonstrations, expert advice, and engaging discussions that reflected the evolving needs of modern sheep farming.
"It has been a real privilege to host such a successful event here at Greystoke Castle Farm," said John and Liz Peile. "The NSA North Sheep team have been fantastic to work with throughout the entire process, and we’ve built some wonderful new friendships along the way. From our very first meeting nearly two years ago to the final day of the event, it’s been a rewarding journey. The turnout and enthusiasm have truly highlighted the spirit of the UK farming industry."
We’re absolutely delighted with the turnout and atmosphere at NSA North Sheep 2025,” said Ted Ogden, NSA Northern Region Chairman. “The resilience and positivity shown by everyone who attended reflects the strength of our industry. I’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to John and Liz Peile and their family for so generously hosting us at Greystoke Castle Farm. Their diverse, forward-thinking, and inspiring farming operation offered a powerful example of the innovation and sustainability driving our industry forward. The hard work and hospitality of the entire Peile team played a huge role in making the day a success, it was a fantastic showcase of the innovation, community, and commitment that define UK sheep farming.”
NSA North Sheep 2025 not only celebrated the resilience and innovation within the sheep industry but also reinforced the importance of community, education, and sustainable practices.
Competition Results North sheep 2025
Best Sheep Breeder
1st Shitlington Farms
2nd Jane & Gill Whiteford
3rd Paul Slater
4th Logie Durno
Best Breed society stand
1st Herdwick
2nd Nemsa
3rd Dalesbred
4th North Country Cheviots
Best Indoor Stand
1st Datamars
2nd CCM
3rd Davidsons Animal Feeds
4th Farm IT
Best Outdoor Stand
1st J S Hubbuck
2nd A W Jenkinson
3rd A. C. Construction
4th Burrow & Rutter Armstrong
Wool on the Hoof
1st Rough Fell with cheviot x lambs from E & K Bland
2nd Cheviot with South Country Cheviot Becks Robbie & Becks Snoop Dog
3rd Teeswater – Sue Tyson
4th Scotch Mule with Texel Cross Lambs
Sheep Dog Trial
1st Derek Scrimgeour with Braehead Dot
2nd Larry Cowper with Geno
3rd Philip Walton with Burndale Scott
4th Gavin Fearon with Jet
5th Peter Ellis with Scott
6th Tom Rome with Jesse
Judged by John Harrison.
Speed Shear
1st Llyr Jones
