Skip To Content

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