NBA Magazine Spring 2025

eef

REGIONAL ROUND UPS

GUEST WRITERS

NEWS & INDUSTRY

HEALTH

M B AGAZINE

BREED SOCIETIES

SPRING 2025 | ISSUE 34

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE

FOR EVERYONE WITH AN INTEREST IN THE BEEF INDUSTRY

WHY

TAKE

THE BVD

RISK?

WHY TAKE THE RISK?

• BVD severely impacts animal welfare – affecting dairy and beef

profi tability, and farm sustainability. 1-4

• Persistently infected calves are pivotal in maintenance of infection.

Control efforts that fail to recognise this are doomed to fail. 5

• In studies, BOVELA ® prevented the birth of PI calves in 100%

of vaccinated dams, compared with unvaccinated control animals

which all produced PI calves. 6

Up to 8% more beef calves weaned 3

Increased individual daily milk yields of up to 1.8 L 4

Over 30 million foetuses protected worldwide since launch 7

Just one shot provides proven protection against both BVDV-1 and

BVDV-2 infection for 12 months 8

DONT TAKE THE RISK – offer your farm the UK’s market leading

BVD vaccine 9

BE CONFIDENT ABOUT

BVD PROTECTION

1. Moennig V, Becher P. Pathogens. 2018;7(1):29. 2. Yarnall MJ, Thrusfield MV. Vet Rec. 2017;181(13):347. 3. Yarnall MJ, et al. Research Square. 2024 (submitted for publication). 4. Schmitt-van de

Leemput E, et al. PLoS One. 2020;15(10):e0240113. 5. Moennig V, Yarnall MJ. Pathogens. 2021;10(10):1292. 6. BOVELA ® European Public Assessment Report. 7. Boehringer Ingelheim sales data 2024.

8. BOVELA ® Summary of Product Characteristics (Nov 2024). 9. Kynetec 2024. BVD sales data by value.

BOVELA ® lyophilisate and solvent for suspension for injection for cattle contains modified live BVDV-1, non-cytopathic parent strain KE-9: 10 4.0 –10 6.0

TCID 50, modified live BVDV-2, non-cytopathic parent strain NY-93: 10 4.0 – 10 6.0 TCID 50 UK: POM-V. Prescription decisions are for the person issuing the

prescription alone. Advice should be sought from the prescriber. Further information available in the SPC or from Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health

UK Ltd, RG12 8YS, UK tel: 01344 746957. Email: vetenquiries@boehringer-ingelheim.com. BOVELA ® is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim

Vetmedica GmbH, used under licence. ©2024 Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health UK Ltd. All rights reserved. Date of preparation: Nov 2024.

BOV-0134-2024. Use Medicines Responsibly.

M B eef

AGAZINE

CONTENTS

Spring 2025

ISSUE 29

16 12

24

National Beef Association

Concorde House

24 Warwick New Road

Leamington Spa

Warwickshire

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01434 601005

info@nationalbeefassociation.com

CEO

Neil Shand

ceo@nationalbeefassociation.com

06

CHAIRMAN

Ben Harman

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magazinenba@

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A National Beef Association Publication

A specialist organisation open to

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beef industry.

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NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION

MAGAZINE

SPRING 2025: Issue 34

NEXT ISSUE: SUMMER 2025

NBA give notice that no part of this

publication may be reproduced, stored

in a retrieval system, or transmitted in

any form or by any means electronic,

mechanical, photocopying, recording

or otherwise, without prior consent

of the publishers. Every care is

taken when compiling editorial and

advertisements and the publishers

can accept no responsibility for

errors or omissions arising from

publication. Views expressed and

information contained in The National

Beef Association Magazine are not

necessarily those of the Editor or of the

National Beef Association who cannot

therefore be held responsible for any

reason arising therefrom. Neither

the Association, the Publisher nor

the Editors endorses any services or

products advertised in this Magazine.

REGULARS

Chairmans report 4

CEO Report 6-7

A Vet’s Perspective 12 -13

Breed Society Focus - British White 28-29

Breed Society News 30-35

FEATURES

Weathering the Storm 8

BTV-3 Responding to an emerging threat 10-11

Welcome to the NBA Board 14

Selective breeding drives success for the historic

Luing herd 16-17

Beef Finishing System justifies a self propelled

diet feeder 18-19

Molasses blends for ceral beef systems 20-21

Putting livestock industry at head of AI debate 23

Melton Mowbray - Hugh Brown 24

Resilient by design 26-27

SPRING 2025 | The National Beef Association Magazine 03

CHAIRMAN’S WELCOME

W

ELCOME

TO

THE SPRING

EDITION

Ben Harman

At the end of February the NBA held its Annual General

Meeting where I was honoured to become the chair of the

organisation succeeding Rob Venner in the role. Rob has

been a diligent and committed member of the board for a number

of years and we owe him a debt of thanks for the hard work and

passion he has bought to the NBA and for the continued support

he gives me personally. As one member moves on, another steps

up to the challenge and we are delighted to welcome James

Herrick to our board of many talents. Many will know James

whether through his ‘Baldy’s Farm’ YouTube channel where he

has over 12,000 subscribers or perhaps as ‘Beef Farmer of the

Year’ at the 2024 British Farming Awards. He is an extremely

intelligent and thoughtful farmer and his presence on the board

will further strengthen the organisation as we fight for our industry

in the face of the multiple challenges we currently face. The

enormously knowledgeable Jude Capper will bring her passion

for the industry to the fore as vice-chair and I am extremely

grateful to have her in a leadership role in the association.

This government seems openly hostile to agriculture. The

NBA and other membership organisations are in perpetual

conversations with both Defra and the ministers but for now at

least we seem to speak different languages. They listen but don’t

seem to hear, and we in return struggle to understand them as

they rain down blow after blow to the industry, the environment

and crucially to food production. John McTernan the former

director of political operations at 10 downing street said last year

that farming is ‘an industry we can do without’ and that he is

‘personally in favour of doing to farmers what Margaret Thatcher

did to the miners’. While the prime minister distanced himself

from those comments, actions speak louder than words. Every

action taken by this government whether it be with APR / BPR,

the withdrawal of 76-100% of the basic payments or the overnight

closure of the SFIs demonstrates not just hostility but no small

amount of malice at a time when across the industry confidence

is at the lowest since records began.

In the face of these headwinds the beef industry is

resilient and with the continued support of our loyal and

enthusiastic customers – the great British public – our

products are in strong demand. The ‘fad’ of veganism has

largely past as consumers look towards a balanced diet

as a route to a healthy lifestyle. Over 97% of households

bought meat last year on average buying fresh beef at least

every 10 days. Demand is strong and supply is tight as

many producers have taken the opportunity to ‘cash in’ on

the high prices, consequently we’ve seen a reduction in the

national herd and a sharp decrease in the number of heifers

retained. We at the NBA believe now is the time to re-invest

in our herds. An extra 100,000T of beef will be required by

2030 just to maintain self-sufficiency at the levels of today,

that equates to an increase of around 300,000 cows in the

national herd. The market drivers look strong and not just in

the short term, whilst agriculture in general is being bought

to its knees the beef sector looks like a pretty safe bet.

04 The National Beef Association Magazine | SPRING 2025

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C EO

REPORT

Neil Shand

CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S REPORT

Five years ago, as we ended the first week of the first

Covid-19 lockdown, the farmgate price for beef was

sitting at £3.40. Even I, the eternal optimist, in my most

outlandish fantasies would not have predicted that the price

would double in five years, but here we are at £6.80 and

heading for beyond £7 a kilo. It is fantastic to see the returns

and opportunities currently available - it’s not something the

farming industry is used to, although certainly something

we deserve! The current price surge is being driven by high

demand not tight supply, although of course tight supply

is partly as a result of demand, both current and historic.

DEFRA data for the first two months of the year show kill

numbers dropping in the UK; conversely the figures from

Ireland show a puzzling opposite- an increased kill for the

same period against the expectation of a significant reduction

in available supplies. So far this year, the one constant

between the UK and Ireland data is the high number of

heifers being slaughtered, a statistic of some concern when

considering the stability of the suckler herd. So the potential

is for our industry to go one of two ways - and it’s currently

difficult to predict - either numbers of replacement cattle will

dwindle to the extent that the UK are unable to sustain levels

of supply, or we will see some genuine growth in the national

suckler herd numbers, driven by decent returns.

Demand for beef across all sectors is extremely strong, with

some cuts heavily discounted across retail as the battle for

the full, high-value trolley continues. Generally, the carcase is

fairly well-balanced, and the excess supply available to export

is severely limited. Recent demand has been increasing

exponentially, and the reasons for this are complex and

multifaceted. The growth in veganism appears to have stalled

completely; the UK population are eating a more balanced

diet, and many more are returning to meat or beef as an

integral part of their diet- ‘eat balanced’ is a message that has

registered, been digested, and led to a change in habits. The

UK has also seen significant population number changes in

recent years; in the last two years we have – in effect - gained

another Birmingham through legal migration. Our existing

population is also ageing – better diet and medical advance

means we live longer healthier lives – a cause to celebrate.

However, we do all need to be fed, and our healthier, older

and more numerous population are contributing to the

increased demand.

Recent data from QMS establishes a requirement for an extra

100,000 tonnes of beef in the UK by 2030, in order to stand

still on our self-sufficiency ratio. At existing efficiency levels,

that necessitates an increase in suckler cow numbers by

around 300,000, and, considering our neighbours are having

similar issues, replacements and herd increases will need

to be bred at home. So, we have a choice. As an industry

and as individual businesses, we can either step up to the

plate ourselves and deliver, or leave the door wide open for

others to walk through and fill the empty spaces. We cannot

allow beef to become a speciality product or risk losing it

from the daily staples basket. Neither does it appear that we

can rely on governments - on either side of any borders - to

understand or react to the on-going herd reductions with

enough due haste.

It’s important to recognise that there

is currently no appreciable correlation

between farmgate and retail shelf

price. Many outlets sell mince at

less than the farm gate kilo price,

but I suspect retailers will shortly

reset some of these to cover the

additional costs which were imposed

in last year’s budget. This will likely

still leave little or no association

between farm gate and retail shelf

price; whilst we often hear about the

cost-of-living crisis and the impact

on beef sales, those unfortunate

enough to be struggling with cost of

living challenges are most probably

not in the market for expensive beef

cuts. Ultimately, shelf price becomes

a retailer decision. The big fear - and

subsequently the ultimate challenge

for both the industry and retailerswill

be when those wholly aligned


to British beef are no longer able to

source enough for their own retail

shelves. Amongst those retailers that

promote both British and Irish beef,

we know that Irish beef is currently

the dominant

product on their shelves, allowing the

retailers who only supply British to

continue to do so. Unfortunately, we

are heading for a time in the not-toodistant

future when supply becomes

too tight to be able to stock shelves

with solely British and Irish produce.

What then? There is an argument

that it’s better to have imported beef

than no beef at all – as long as it’s

not to the detriment of UK prices- the

risk of empty shelves is that we lose

consumers to other proteins.

range of differing opinions. Potential problems could arise

from promoting imports at a lower price, driving sales

upwards, and causing potential harm to UK farm gate price.

While the debates on imports rumble on, our own production

is in steady decline, numbers reduce on a monthly basis,

and next year’s breeding heifers are being culled. The UK

herd is in decline, and unless we change something quicklythe

reality of increasing numbers of imports is approaching

at speed.

SO WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

Government will say the ball is in our hands. WTO rules

don’t provide an easy route for governments to be seen

to be directly supporting production-based schemes, so I

guess that means it’s up to us. Arguably, there has never

been a better time; the returns are at a level where it makes

commercial sense to grow your herd, to retain more heifers

and invest further in suckler beef production. Whilst in mid to

late January, and even into early February, the sudden surge

in farm gate prices were still driving a reduction in numbers,

the strong price appears stable and gives every indication

that it will continue to track upwards. We are starting to see

producers retaining extra heifers this year with plans to

increase numbers in the short and medium term; with the

rising values of cattle, they will be able back fill any void left

by changes in support payments. It really is in the hands of

the industry at the moment - both Westminster and Holyrood

House are showing zero appetite to publicly support livestock

production – or indeed any farming enterprise at all. Reason

enough to make it happen!

What would the reaction be to Australian - or any other

imported beef - on a UK retailer shelf? We know that most

imported beef goes through food service – restaurants, pubs

etc – it’s almost invisible to the unknowing general consumer.

If it were to appear on a fresh meat counter within a major

retailer - well that’s a different story completely. And what

would the reaction be if the shelf price was the same as

ours? This is a very sensitive subject, producing a wide

Industry News

WEATHERING THE STORM:

FARMERS SHOULD ASSESS THEIR BUSINESS

TO ENSURE RESILIENCE TO CHANGING

WEATHER PATTERNS

Farming has always been at the mercy of the weather, but the growing

unpredictability of seasonal patterns makes this an increasingly urgent challenge.

Less stable weather and more frequent extreme events are no longer rare

occurrences but shifting norms, with significant implications for those

working the land.

AHDB’s Climate Change Adaptation report outlines the

key risks and opportunities for farmers in the face of

climate change. It highlights how climate change could

impact agriculture across multiple temperature scenarios

between now and 2100 and suggests changes farmers could

make to protect their business.

For example, flooding could become a much bigger problem

as we are experiencing increased rainfall. The Met Office’s

climate projections suggest that by the middle of the century,

heavy rainfall could increase by around 20%, while overall

rainfall may rise by about 5% compared to past decades.

This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a wake-up call. Farms that have

never faced serious flooding before may find themselves

grappling with waterlogged fields, eroded soil, and damaged

infrastructure. Many farmers are already aware of the risks

caused by flooding, but it’s important this becomes a focus

for all. Farmers need to identify any risk areas to their farm in

order to future-proof their business.

The good news is that practical steps can be taken now to

protect farms from these challenges. Ensuring soil remains

healthy and permeable can go a long way in managing

excess water. Techniques such as minimal tillage, aeration,

and planting deep-rooted grasses like festulolium, cocksfoot,

or clovers are proven ways to maintain soil structure and

drainage. Farmers should also assess nearby watercourses

and drainage systems, ensuring they can cope with

prolonged rainfall. Sometimes this may require maintenance

or investment in improved water diversion methods or even

relocating vulnerable buildings and infrastructure.

It’s easy to see climate change purely

in terms of risks, but there may also

be opportunities. Warmer winters,

for example, could reduce the need

to house livestock, cutting down on

energy and feed costs. Certain crops

that were once difficult to grow in the

UK may become viable options.

Historically, much of the conversation in agriculture has

focused on reducing the sector’s environmental impact – vital

work that must continue. But adapting to the changes that

are already happening is just as crucial. The reality is that

mitigation and adaptation go hand in hand; safeguarding soil

health or improving water management protects both the farm

and the environment.

The need to act is urgent, and we urge everyone to assess

their own business and identify actions they can take to

reduce the impact of climate change. Many of the suggested

changes are current best practices that already support

productivity and resilience. With some thoughtful planning,

farmers can build stronger, more adaptable businesses that

are ready to face the uncertainties of the future.

For more information, visit ahdb.org.uk/climate-adaptationreport

Rachael Madeley-Davies,

AHDB Head of Environment


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Industry News

BTV-3: RESPONDING TO AN

EMERGING THREAT

Bluetongue virus (BTV) is a vector-borne virus that infects ruminants and

camelids. Over 30 serotypes have been identified, each having distinct clinical

and epidemiological profiles. BTV is not zoonotic. Serotypes 1-24 are classified

as notifiable diseases by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).

Sioned Timothy BVSc MSc MRCVS,

Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health

BTV is transmitted by Culicoides

midges .1 A single bite from an infected

midge can be enough to spread

disease. The virus can also, less commonly,

be transferred from animal to animal

via needles, semen and embryos, and

some serotypes can also undergo vertical

transmission from dam to foetus, further

complicating control .1

Movement of infected midges on the wind

plays an important role in the geographical

spread of infection.1 Transmission typically

occurs during the warmer months, between

May and October, when midges are most

active. Transport of infected animals can

also lead to dissemination of disease. 1

In recent decades, BTV has expanded into

Northern Europe with several serotypes are

currently circulating. The present outbreak

of BTV-3 has had a significant impact due

to its sudden emergence; its pathogenicity,

particularly in sheep; and the speed of its

spread.

Clinical cases were first detected in sheep in

the Netherlands in early September 2023 and

genetic analysis of virus isolated from infected

animals revealed that the outbreak was

caused by BTV-3. Although the circulating

strain demonstrates a high level of genetic

similarity to virus previously isolated in

Sardinia and Tunisia, it has not been possible

to determine how the virus arrived in the

Netherlands .2

During 2024 BTV-3 case numbers continued

to increase within the Netherlands and more

widely, with the outbreak now extending to

countries including Germany, France, Belgium

and Denmark. The first case was detected in

the UK following active surveillance in Kent in

November 2023 and it has since spread north

and west, resulting in an extensive restriction

zone.

The clinical signs associated with BTV

infection are mainly a result of the extensive

damage caused to blood vessels by the virus,

resulting in fluid leakage, haemorrhage, and

necrosis of affected tissues. 3

Typically, BTV infection results in more severe

clinical signs in sheep, and this has been

evident during the current outbreak of BTV-

3.3,4 Clinical signs include fever, lethargy,

hypersalivation, ulcerations and erosions

of the oral and nasal mucous membranes,

facial oedema, lesions of the coronary band,

shedding of the hoof horn, lameness and

death.3 In the Netherlands in 2023, mortality in

sheep was high, with fatality rates of over 70%

reported in animals showing clinical signs of

infection .4

The clinical signs observed in cattle include

fever, lethargy, conjunctivitis, nasal discharge,

erosion and crusting of the lips and nose,

ulceration and erosions of the oral mucosa,

oedema of the nose, inflammation of the

coronary band and superficial necrosis of

the teats.3 In the Netherlands the mortality in

BTV-3 infected suckler herds was found to be

2.62 times higher than in unaffected herds

between September to December 2023.5

The impact of BTV-3 following infection

of cows during pregnancy has also been

recognised. A recent report from the East

of England described reduced fertility,

abortion, stillbirth and the birth of ‘dummy‘

calves with congenital brain lesions on three

suckler farms in Jan 2025 associated with

BTV-3 infection.6 Between 5 and 17% of

calves born were affected, and on one farm

20% of the breeding animals were found to

be barren.

In addition to clinical disease, infected cattle

may harbour high levels of virus in their

blood for a prolonged period, potentially

acting as an important reservoir of infection

for the Culicoides midge .

3

Symptomatic treatment of clinically

affected animals has been attempted

and is focussed on alleviating pain and

inflammation and treatment of secondary

infections, alongside nursing care. However,

during the outbreak in the Netherlands,

because of the poor long-term prognosis of

severely affected animals, early euthanasia

of sheep was increasingly advocated on

welfare grounds .7

The current BTV-3 outbreak has resulted in

a significant, but as yet uncalculated, cost

to the sheep and cattle industries in affected

countries, with a major impact on animal

health and welfare, and also the wellbeing

of farmers experiencing cases on their

farms.

Strategies to prevent the spread of

disease are essential for effective

control and to mitigate the impact of this

disease. Restricting the movement of

livestock to reduce the risk of moving

infected animals to uninfected areas is an

important component of this, alongside

disease surveillance and diagnostic

testing. Strategies to minimise exposure of


Industry News

susceptible animals to the Culicoides midge, such as the

use of mesh screens in housing, are largely impractical

and also of limited effectiveness.7 Similarly, there is no

evidence that application of insecticides or endectocides to

animals can prevent the spread of infection .7

For many infectious diseases, vaccination is the mainstay

of control and has played a critical role in previous

outbreaks of BTV. However, due to the antigenic diversity

of the virus, existing vaccines against other circulating BTV

serotypes are not effective against BTV-3. However, the

use of newly developed BTV-3 vaccines is permitted in

England and Wales, giving vets and farmers access to an

important tool.

As the weather warms midge activity increases, and with it

the risk of infection. It is likely that BTV-3 will re-emerge in

2025 and that it will continue to spread more widely across

the UK, so it’s important to be aware of, and vigilant for

the clinical signs of BTV. Vaccination is the best way of

reducing the risk this virus poses to your livestock, as well

as the risk of onward spread. Vaccination is most effective

if it’s given to animals well ahead of the disease risk, so

speak to your vet to determine the best approach for your

farm.

References

1. Maclachlan NJ, Mayo CE, Daniels PW, Savini G, Zientara S, Gibbs

EP. Bluetongue. Rev Sci Tech. 2015 Aug;34(2):329-40. doi: 10.20506/

rst.34.2.2360. PMID: 26601438.

2. Holwerda M, Santman-Berends IMGA, Harders F, Engelsma M, Vloet

RPM, Dijkstra E, van Gennip RGP, Mars MH, Spierenburg M, Roos L, van

den Brom R, van Rijn PA. Emergence of Bluetongue Virus Serotype 3, the

Netherlands, September 2023. Emerg Infect Dis. 2024 Aug;30(8):1552-

1561. doi: 10.3201/eid3008.231331. Epub 2024 Jun 28. PMID: 38941965;

PMCID: PMC11286052.

3. van den Brink KMJA, Santman-Berends IMGA, Harkema L, Scherpenzel

CGM, Dijkstra E, Bisschop PIH, Peterson K, van de Burgwal NS, Waldeck

HWF, Dijkstra T, Holwerda M, Spierenburg MAH, van den Brom R.

Bluetongue virus serotype 3 in ruminants in the Netherlands: Clinical

signs, seroprevalence and pathological findings. Vet Rec. 2024 Aug

17;195(4):e4533. doi: 10.1002/vetr.4533. Epub 2024 Aug 15. PMID:

39148262.

4. Santman-Berends IMGA, van den Brink KMJA, Dijkstra E, van Schaik G,

Spierenburg MAH, van den Brom R. The impact of the bluetongue serotype

3 outbreak on sheep and goat mortality in the Netherlands in 2023. Prev

Vet Med. 2024 Oct;231:106289. doi: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2024.106289.

Epub 2024 Jul 19. PMID: 39126984.

5. K.M.J.A. van den Brink, H. Brouwer-Middelesch, G. van Schaik, T.J.G.M.

Lam, J.A. Stegeman, R. van den Brom, M.A.H. Spierenburg, I.M.G.A.

Santman-Berends. The impact of bluetongue serotype 3 on cattle mortality,

abortions and premature births in the Netherlands in the first year of the

epidemic. Prev Vet Med, 2025; 239:106493 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.

prevetmed.2025.106493.

6. Swinson, V., Reichel, R., Pittalis, L., Bidewell, C., Wighton H. (2025),

Brain lesions in BTV-3-positive calves in England. Vet Rec, 196: 192-193.

Https:/doi.org/10.1002/vetr.5293

7. Lovatt, F., Tarlinton, R. and Groenevelt, M. (2024), Treatment

considerations for bluetongue virus serotype-3 cases in sheep. In Practice,

46: 198-203. https://doi.org/10.1002/inpr.429


A Vet’s Perspective.

A VET’S

PERSPECTIVE

Molly Mckay

It used to be that a TB test was merely a 4-yearly handling

inconvenience to farmers and vets in Lincolnshire, a long standing

TB4, where the risk of reactors was so low that a TB test posed no

fear. But oh, how that has changed in the last 7 years.

The first cases found caused fear, denial, rumour,

stigma, and heartache. All are natural human

responses to something new and unknown. We all

‘knew’ about TB but, naively or perhaps in denial, thought

that it would not affect us. Business models locally were

based on being in a TB4 and vets we would actively seek

to work in an area where TB testing was not a significant

part of the role.

Initially there were suggestions from some farmers in

this historically close knit, rural, community that there

were vets that had been deliberately finding reactors in

an attempt to increase trade, or that results would be

different depending upon which vet practice undertook the

TB test or even that there were advantages to paying for

your TB test to ensure you were clear. People behave in

strange ways when they come across things they either

don’t understand or they fear, but this energy spent on

rumour did nothing but detract from quick positive action,

attempted by some forward-thinking folk, to get the

community thinking about how to best reduce the spread

of this devastating disease. Consequently, TB was able to

establish itself. The result was the formation, in July 2020

of Hotspot 28, where some farms in the central area have

spent the best part of the last 5 years TB testing every 60-

90 days. So how did we get to this sorry position?

The evidence1 suggest that the original incursion was

from a purchased animal, or animals, with M. Bovis

Clade B3-11 (formerly genotype 25:a) from Staffordshire,

Derbyshire, Cheshire, or NE Shropshire, which

subsequently spread into the local badger population

causing spread between livestock farms. Farms here

rarely graze in close proximity and farmers were aware

early on that wildlife spread was the only credible route

of transmission given the pattern of infected herds that

emerged. The trade West to East across England of

stores and replacement breeding stock is long established

and even with the introduction of pre and post movement

TB testing of cattle in 2005 the movement of a TB infected

animal was bound to happen. Even if perfectly conducted,

the TB skin test is only 80% effective at identifying positive

animals. It was a when, not if, but when it happened, we,

and I include the vets, farmers and APHA were just not

quick enough to stamp on it.

So now we have pedigree breeders whose trade has

stalled, commercial suckler farmers who can no longer

sell stores, fat stock not being able to go to market and

youngstock stuck on farms which have are status OFTW

that cannot sell their animals locally. As Lincolnshire

is still officially TB4 we only have Livestock Finishing

Units (LFU) not Approved Finishing Units (AFU) and the

former cannot accept cattle from OFTW herds. The TB

situation has led to many re-evaluating their business

models in this area where most farms are mixed, arable

and livestock, and even a few farmers pack up raising

cattle altogether. The arable component of these farms

businesses is fundamental to survival and TB testing,

necessitated by radial testing or breakdowns, from mid-

July to October is impossible for many with cattle turned

away and all hands working the land to ensure the farm is

sustainable.

The toll is not only financial but also emotional. I have

stood on farms with the whole gambit of emotions felt and

displayed. I’ve cradled friends in my arms as they sob at

the loss of their prized show animals, watched rage boil

and explode as a farmer takes onboard the implications of

the results, had good friends unable to talk to me, and I’ve

even been held up against a wall. Do I blame them, no.

I understand and feel utterly heartbroken on their behalf.

I am not unknown to hold it together only to return to the

practice and cry. Vets and technicians have left because

of the emotional impact of delivering TB results. The cost

of TB is so much more than the stock destroyed.


Reactions have become less extreme as farmers become more

accepting of the situation, but these farmers are friends, as

well as clients, and the heartache is real. We, as vets, do our

job because TB testing accurately is the only way to reduce

the number of sources of infection in the cattle population.

TB testing for us is a necessary evil of the job, to ensure we

are helping our clients prevent TB as we would with any other

disease, not a choice.

So, what are we doing in terms of biocontainment, if not

eradication, of TB? We moved on introduction of Hotspot 28

from 4 yearly to annual testing and roadkill badger collections

to monitor wildlife infection were increased. Initially 6-monthly

TB testing was proposed by the APHA Hotspot team and

supported by me, amongst others, but rejected because of lack

of delivery capacity by some vet practices and lack of farmer

support in some quarters. Hindsight is a wonderful thing, but

this 6-monthly testing would have sped up the whole process,

negated the economic damage of radial testing in harvest and

allowed forward planning with test dates fixed 6-months in

advance. Gamma testing is carried out, at APHA request, in

addition to all those farms with visible lesions. In terms of the

wildlife, badger sett surveys across the summer of 2024 were

followed by badger vaccination and sampling centrally within

the hotspot with 172 badgers vaccinated with BCG vaccine this

autumn.

Its not all doom and gloom, there are

positives out there, we are just a little

behind the curve but will catch up I

have no doubt. The position nationally

is that the TB picture is improving2

and Hotspot 32 in Cumbria is shrinking

so even if we have seen a significant

increase in the number of reactors

between 2023-2024 there is hope.

The local farmer led TB group, who work tirelessly to

gather wildlife evidence and ensure accurate information is

disseminated are now seeing the fruits of this hard work with

a recent well attended meeting, an update on Hotspot 28,

hosted by the NBA and NFU and attended by APHA at all levels

including policy leading which has led to a swell of support and

community cohesion about the way forward.

Hotspot 28 will be moving to 6-monthly testing, removing the

need for radials, and as a community we will be ensuring all

testing is carried out accurately and in a timely fashion whilst

undertaking on-going badger collection for evidence gathering.

APHA will continue badger vaccination and sampling in the

worst affected areas.

In addition as a community we will be trying to ensure every

farm in the Hotspot has a free TBAS visit, applying for a funding

from APHA, managed locally, to help farmers to fund measures

to deter badgers, and we are looking to set up badger

vaccination in a ring around that that area being vaccinated by

APHA in an attempt to contain the infection.

Further positives are that the increase in TB testing has led to

significant improvements in cattle handling facilities on most

farms that has a significant positive impact beyond TB testing.

My concluding thoughts are going through this has taught us

the importance of contingency planning, of communication and

that when we work together, we are so much stronger than the

sum of our parts. If you are still a TB4 please learn from our

mistakes.


Industry News

WELCOME TO THE

NBA BOARD

JAMES HERRICK

I

farm 140 spring calving suckler cows

in partnership with my parents,Eddie

and Joanne, on our family farm in

Leicestershire.

We focus onproducing efficient,

functional suckler cows and high

quality beeffrom a simple grass based

system. I have always believed in

challenging tradition where it makes sense,

using data, grazing management and a ruthless focus on

fertility and cow health to build a herd that works with the land,

not against it.

In October 2024, I was proud to win ‘Beef Farmer of the Year’

at the British Farming Awards, but the job is never done -

there’s always another challenge on the horizon. Some may

know me for my YouTube channel - Baldy’s Farm - where I

show an insight into the day to day operations of our suckler

herd, as well as in depth knowledge exchange around grazing

management and cattle health.

ROBERT GILCHRIST

A

self-confessed beef cow

obsessive, Robert is Chief

Executive Officer of The

Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society. With

over 20 years in mainly consultancy

roles in the industry, he aims for a

forward-thinking approach to beef

farming and believes there is a great

future for the UK beef industry.

Previous roles have seen him as beef

nutritionist for Keenan, KT specialist with Quality Meat Scotland

and most recently as Programme Manager for the Farm Profit

Programme.

Away from work, Robert enjoys spending time with his family,

especially supporting his children with their many endeavours!”

Robert joins the NBA Board as the Breed Society

Representative

Away from the farm I can be found running, on my bike or

enjoying time with my wife and young family.

I am honoured to join the National Beef Association Board,

continuing the incredible hard work already being undertaken

by the existing board members. I’m looking forward to

contributing where I can and learning from others, as we work

together to support and strengthen the future of the British beef

industry.


Industry News

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Industry News

SELECTIVE BREEDING DRIVES

SUCCESS FOR HISTORIC

LUING HERD

Luing cattle are still thriving on their home on the Isle of Luing

almost 60 years after the breed was officially recognised.

Livestock manager, Jo Marsden, shares an overview of her

management of the herd on the 1,534-hectare island.

The foundation herd of Luing cattle, which were officially

recognised as a standalone breed in 1966, are run by

the Cadzow family on the Isle of Luing.

The breed, which is a mix of Beef Shorthorn and Highland

genetics, was developed by the family who have been

farming on the island, located off the west coast of Scotland

near Oban, for almost 80 years.

The business remains a family affair with Shane Cadzow

working alongside his sons Jack and Archie.

New diversified income streams for the family include the

introduction of a beef box scheme, a holiday lets business –

Wild Luing – a shoot, and a wildlife boat trips venture for Wild

Luing guests, however the 320-strong herd of Luings remains

at the core of the business.

The herd is run on Luing along with the neighbouring islands

of Torsa and Scarba – which brings the total area farmed by

the Cadzow Bros business to 3,885 hectares – and a 1,200-

ewe flock of commercial, nearly zero input Lleyn cross sheep

is also resident on the farm.

Livestock manager, Jo Marsden, has been working for the

Cadzow family for almost five years.

She says her focus for the historic herd is to keep cattle that

make the most of the rough grazing available on the islands,

while requiring minimal inputs.

“Alongside senior stockman, Bobby Campbell, we’re working

to continue building the traits developed over the years by

previous herd managers,” explains Ms Marsden.

“We’re looking for longevity, cows that can perform without

needing supplementary feeding, cows that are efficient

converters of forage, and cows with good feet and fertility.”

STRICT SELECTION POLICY

Although the cattle are pedigree, Ms Marsden and the team

run the herd as a commercial enterprise and every animal is

required to perform to stay in the herd.

“We keep all heifers on the farm and put as many to the bull

as possible, with the aim of getting them to a 400-day weight

of 350kg,” says Ms Marsden.

She says 50 are kept as replacements for the herd every

year, with the remainder either sold in-calf or bulling –

alongside some spring-calving cows and bulls – at a large

production sale at United Auctions in Oban every November.


Industry News

The cattle are outside all-year-round, except for heifers

which are brought inside for two weeks for calving at twoyears-old.

“We keep our calving pattern pretty tight and aim to calve all

320 cows in six weeks,” says Ms Marsden.

“Anything that scans outside of this period will be sold at the

production sale in November.”

The farm’s strict selection policy extends to maternal health

and how well a cow rears her calf, with data gathered from

calving onwards.

Information recorded includes calf birth weight, cow foot

and udder health, how quickly the calf got up to have a

drink, the calf’s weight every 100 days, and the mother’s

temperament.

“We’re now recording a lot more data on the cows because

by the time you’re thinking of putting a cow back to the bull,

a lot can change,” explains Ms Marsden.

“For example, you might look at a cow and think her udder

looks fine, but if she had blown teats at the point of calving

that will be recorded, and she won’t go back to the bull.”

She says bulls are selected based on a combination of

physical characteristics and Estimated Breeding Values

(EBVs), with a strong focus on easy calving and a smaller

birth weight.

At present the herd’s average birth weight is 42kg, but Ms

Marsden hopes to reduce this to 40kg in future.

She believes the herd’s strict selection policy is paying off

and data from scanning in September 2024 shows of the

299 adult cows, 15 were twin-bearing, and 16 were empty

– resulting in a 95% conception rate and a total scanning

percentage of 99.6%.

The figures for the 110 yearling heifers put to the bull are

106 in-calf and Ms Marsden is proud to report that of the

389 in-calf females, 294 are due in the first cycle, 59 in the

second cycle, and 27 in the third cycle.

HERD NUTRITION

Grass is key to the herd’s diet with the cattle mob grazing

the rough hill-type grazing, and one cut of silage taken on

the farm in the middle of June.

The herd is split into two big grazing mobs – one with 150

cows and their heifer calves at foot, and the other with 150

cows and their steer and bull calves at foot.

“We move them from hill to hill weekly until the middle of

December before they return to their family group ahead of

calving,” says Ms Marsden.

A small amount of hard feed is given to the calves once

they are weaned, with the youngstock split into three groups

based on their weight and fed accordingly.

“The feed is sourced from Carr’s Billington and the amount

they get varies from 2-4kg a day depending on the weight

range for the group,” says Ms Marsden.

“We’ve seen a marked difference in cattle performance

since introducing the feed and switching from an 18%

protein feed to a 16% one, based on recommendations from

Steven Handley at Carr’s Billington.”

She explains that the protein level was reduced because

work to increase the quality of the silage on the farm had

resulted in excess dietary protein being excreted, so the

18% feed wasn’t being fully utilised.

“Reducing the protein in the feed has also helped with the

development of the heifer frames,” adds Ms Marsden.

“We build their frame between weaning at 250 days and

bulling at 400 days old, and they then go to the bull and

their carcass fills out nicely off grass between 400 and 550

days old.”

As she looks to the future, Ms Marsden says she plans

to keep improving cow performance, so the historic herd

continues to thrive in Luing.


Industry News

BEEF FINISHING SYSTEM

JUSTIFIES A SELF-PROPELLED

DIET FEEDER

Most beef units share a focus on minimising time and money

spent on feeding. After investing in a second-hand selfpropelled

diet feeder, Greendale Farming halved time spent

feeding and cut fuel usage by almost 40 percent.

Tom Chanter started his farming career as a livestock

nutritionist, wasting no time building a reputation for

creating efficiency opportunities on farm. With this under

his belt, some seven years ago, Tom took the role of farm

manager at Greendale Group Farms in Devon. Tom has since

progressed into a director role; having facilitated considerable

expansion and spearheaded the installation of a new AD

plant.

Established by the Carter family more than 150 years ago,

the Greendale Group comprises the Greendale farming

operation as well as retail, fishing, property, haulage, and

various leisure enterprises. Tom takes us through his strategy

for sustainable expansion on the farm.

“We’ve gone through quite a programme of expansion on

the farm the last several years. We’re up from 2,600 to 4,500

cattle finishing each year. We buy-in forward stores from

livestock markets and direct off farm. We finish them over 90 -

100 days and then sell them direct to slaughter. We’re forever

questioning what we’re doing - feeding, management, buying,

selling etc”, explains Tom.

With feed taking up such a large proportion of variable costs

- as is the case on most farms -Tom is focused on feeding

efficiency.

“We’re farming 1,600 acres of

combinable crops, maize and grass.

With the reduction in Single Farm

Payment, and with SFI not looking

that attractive if wanting to push

arable land, I’m not sure where we’ll

go with feeding in the next 3 years.

Renting land to grow maize and

crops was already marginal, and is


Industry News

now becoming impossibly tight. I’ve always got my eye on the raw materials

market, and at the minute, I can buy in wheat and barley less than what I can

produce it for”, says Tom.

“But for now, we’re operating a one-size-fits-all TMR system and getting a 1.7 kilo average liveweight gain performance”,

adds Tom. “We’re working on £2.54 per day in diet costs. It’s up there, but a few pence is nothing compared to keeping

cattle an extra 10 days on farm. That’s what kills us”.

“When I first came onto the farm, we went from a tub feeder to a KEENAN MechFiber400. We totally abused it and it kept

working. But our feed storage is as spread out as it can be, and I got sick of putting 1,000 hours a year on the tractor turning

the mixer wagon, and 700-800 hours a year on the telehandler to load it”.

“To be honest, we couldn’t justify the cost of a brand new Self Propelled

machine. So, we looked at other options and ended up with a second-hand

KEENAN Vertical Auger Self Propelled with 7,000 hours on the clock”, adds

Tom. “This immediately cut-down feeding time from 5 to 2 hours a day; we’re

only doing 800 - 900 hours a year on it.

“The silage faces are also cleaner, and we cut diesel usage down. So, our current diesel usage is 62 litres a day. Before, it

used to be more like 160 litres of fuel a day. That’s what has helped pay for the machine. Feed efficiency is a real focus for

us and having the InTouch weighing system helps us monitor our feed usage and efficiency”.

“We had other machines on demo, but KEENAN was the only one which could offer us the 33 cube capacity. All the other

machines we went to see were fully hydrostatic and the service costs for that is horrendous. The service of the KEENAN

Self-Propelled is no worse than the average tractor. KEENAN also gave us sensible money for our two-year-old machine.

Touch wood, the reliability has been good”, concludes Tom.


Industry News

MOLASSES BLENDS FOR CEREAL

BEEF SYSTEMS

Incorporating a molasses based liquid feed can have a significant impact

on diet presentation and performance in cereal fed cattle.

Dr Phil Holder from molasses liquid feed specialists ED&F

Man comments that while molasses-blends are widely

acknowledged as a way to reduce dust, this undervalues

the other benefits they can bring.

Achieving high feed intakes and feed conversion efficiency

are the foundations of high daily liveweight gain, meeting

specification and reducing days to finish, all of which drive

returns.

“The inclusion of sugars is proven to help achieve a more

consistent rumen pH and improve feed efficiency in beef

cattle to improve growth rates and reduce days to finish while

also reducing diet sorting,” he explains. “This is in addition to

improving diet presentation which can bring big benefits for

beef finisher

Dustiness is a common issue with cereal-based diets,

affecting performance in many ways. Dusty diets are less

palatable and can have a poorer ‘nose’, making them less

attractive and depressing voluntary feed intakes and the

energy and protein consumed. This in turn will reduce daily

liveweight gain and increase feed waste and costs.

If diets are inadequately mixed due to high levels of dust

there will be an increased risk of diet sorting which can affect

rumen pH and reduce feed conversion efficiency. In addition,

dust can contribute to a higher incidence of respiratory

disease which will further affect performance.

“One way that is proven to help

improve diet presentation is the

addition of molasses-based liquid

feeds. These effectively bind the

dust and ingredients giving a more

homogenous feed. The sugars

increase palatability and smell,

helping stimulate higher intakes.

“The more consistent presentation also reduces the risk of

diet sorting. Trials show that adding molasses blends can

reduce respirable dust, the smallest particles that can get in

the lungs and cause respiratory disease by up to 90%.”

Dr Holder emphasises that the addition of molasses also

has nutritional benefits. Having an energy content similar

to cereals, they will not reduce the energy density of the

overall diet. ED&F Man’s Molasses blends can also include

additional Regulated Release protein which can allow a

reduction in other protein ingredients in the diet.


Industry News

“Probably the biggest nutritional benefit is that when you feed molasses you are feeding six-carbon sugars which are

proven to stimulate rumen function, feed efficiency and microbial protein production. This in turn will allow the starch in the

diet to be better utilised.”

In a recent trial carried out in Italy, the effect of replacing some of the starch with sugar in the diet of nearly 200 fattening

Charolais x Limousin cattle was investigated. Half the cows received a diet containing 1kg/day of a liquid feed, replacing

1kg of cereals. Both diets had the same energy and protein contents.

The cattle fed the diet with the liquid feed had a daily liveweight gain of 1.486kg/day compared with 1.419kg/day for cattle of

the traditional diet. The cattle started the trial at 418kg and were finished at 650kg.

“The benefit of the higher liveweight gain was that the cattle on the diet containing the liquid feed finished eight days sooner,

resulting in a potential cost saving of £6/head. Alternatively, if all cattle were slaughtered on the same day, the increased

carcase weight of the animals on the molasses supplemented diet would have resulted in an addition £18/head in carcase

price.”

Rumen pH was also measured and cows on the molasses diet had a more consistent and stable rumen pH, spending more

time within the optimal range which improved fed efficiency. Finally there was a 41% lower incidence of respiratory disease

where dust had been reduced with the addition of the liquid feed.

“Reducing dust and increasing sugars had a significant impact on performance and potential returns and could help

producers make the most of the higher beef prices currently available.”

Dr Holder emphasises the importance of choosing the right product for the particular feeding system, explaining that ED&F

Man has a range of options to suit varying nutritional and application needs.

“Where a liquid feed is added using a dribble bar or equivalent, it will be important to use a less viscous, free-flowing

product like Dustbuster. But in TMR systems it will be possible to use a product with more sugar which can bring additional

benefits,” he advises


Enhance your beef ration

by incorporating molasses

based liquid feeds

Optimise feed intake to help maximise live weight gain

Helps produce a high quality, well mixed appealing feed

Reduce feed waste and minimise dust

Stimulate rumen function and overall ration digestibility

Range of product options available to balance on farm feeds

AVAILABLE IN

LOAD SIZES 1T-29T

Want to know more?

Richard Dobson 07764 344716

Angela Sutherby 07957 642669

Danielle Goatley 07710 075824

Georgina Chapman 07485 192774

Nutritionist | Technical Support Manager

www.edfmanliquidproductsuk.com

@EDFMan_Molasses

edfmanliquidproductsuk

Feeding Britain’s Farms

Industry News

PUTTING LIVESTOCK

INDUSTRY AT HEAD

OF AI DEBATE

The UK’s first conference dedicated to the

development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications

in the livestock industry will be held in September.

AI(Live) will take place at The Science

Museum in London on Tuesday

23 rd September and is sponsored

by HerdVision/Agsenze, IVC Farm Vets,

Kynetec, MSD Animal Health, Vetoquinol,

VetImprss and MWI.

“AI has the potential to significantly shape

livestock farming for the better, developing

creative solutions to the challenges the

industry faces and turn the vast amount

of data held by farmers and others in the

industry into valuable insights,” comments

Matt Dobbs, CEO of Agsenze, co-lead

organiser of the event.

“However, it is

fundamentally important

that the development

and use of AI in livestock

farmer is driven by the

industry, remains farmer

centric and recognises

the value of farm data.

We are already seeing AI

developers approaching

farms for access to data

with no mention of data

security, how this will

benefit their herds and

flocks or how farmers will

be remunerated for their

data.”

The objectives of AI(Live) are to start

the debate and establish and inform

the principles by which AI and livestock

farming can derive the maximum benefits,

specifically focussing on education, setting

standards for commercial deployment of

systems and reviewing applications for AI.

AI(Live) will bring together influential and

well-renowned speakers from across the

farming and technology sectors, including

Dan Sodergren, Professor Jude Capper

and David Speller. Subjects covered will

include harnessing data for precision

agriculture, the role of data in driving sector

growth, policy and regulation for Livestock

AgriTech and imagining the future of

livestock farming.

“AI(Live) is the UK’s first conference

dedicated to the application of AI in

livestock farming and will help ensure

that technologies are developed in a way

that benefits the industry with appropriate

safeguards,” explains co-lead organiser

Paul Horwood from IVC Farm Vets. “It

will be extremely relevant to farmers,

researchers, technology innovators,

regulators and policy makers, processors

and consultants.

“AI can play a crucial role in harnessing

cutting edge solutions to enhance

productivity, sustainability and efficiency but

is not well understood. The UK is already

number two in the world for Agtech and can

play a lead role in the development of AI

in livestock production. AI(Live) will set us

on this journey, keeping producers and the

industry at the centre of the AI revolution.”

For further details and to register go to

www.ailive.farm


Melton Mowbray | Hugh Brown

M ELTON

M OWBRAY

ELTON

OWBRAY

Hugh Brown

Chief Executive

What a start to the year we have all had. Consistently strong

beef and lamb prices with prime heifers and steers up

over 40% year on year at the end of March . Our National

Fatstock Show in December also saw the record ever price for

the champion beast, achieving £16,600 from the Bell Hotel in

Winslow for a British Blue heifer shown by C&G Davies.

This is a welcome return for farmers who are at last being

rewarded for their hard work, despite the erosion of Government

support and the challenges of diseases like Bluetongue.

It is clear that this uplift in prices has

been driven by the live markets that

have led the deadweight prices. The

transparent market system, bringing

buyers and sellers together in a trusted

environment is the best way to arrive at

a fair market price.

And Markets are not just about price formation, but are also

logistics centres, where hundreds of vendors can come together

to meet buyers who know they can get volume in one go, without

having to trawl around multiple farms.

It is odd then for me, that this value does

not seem to be fully recognised in regulatory

circles. I came to Melton Mowbray Market

not through a farming or land agency route,

but via the financial markets in London.

Regulators there recognise the value

that markets provide in price formation,

fair execution and promoting competition

through low barriers to entry (anyone can

stand around the ring). Participation in the

public markets is encouraged and whilst

trading bilaterally outside the markets is

allowed, traders must go through extra

hoops to demonstrate that they have acted

in the customer’s best interests. There

ought to be more recognition of the public

goods that livestock markets provide in

regulatory and government circles as well

and an appreciation of how we can help them

achieve their traceability aims alongside a

resilient and healthy food & farming supply

chain.

On the pedigree side, the NBA’s rules provide another level of

support to the standard Ts & Cs though these are usually only

required as a backstop in an industry that still relies a lot on this

trust with breeders ‘standing behind’ their stock.

The technology in markets has come along in leaps and bounds

since Covid with most pedigree sales now having efficient online

bidding alongside the ring, allowing maximum participation in

the auction. This online participation is only going to increase,

but will not supplant the benefits of ‘being there’, with the market

buzz, social interaction and fun, alongside the mental health

benefits this brings.

It is an exciting time in Melton Mowbray, where, with the support

of loyal customers, breed societies and staff, we have trebled

the size of the livestock market in the last five years. In addition

to this our food, drink and events side of the business, the

Stockyard, in the old market sheds is getting £12m of investment

over the next year. This will deliver new food production, retail &

office units, alongside our existing farmers and general market,

world class brewery, wedding and conference venues.

Being in the heart of the historic town of Melton Mowbray, with

hotels and the town centre on the doorstep (not to mention the

pies and Stilton cheese!), it makes it a great place to visit for the

sales, or just for a weekend away. We look forward to welcoming

more of you here soon.


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Industry News

RESILIENT BY DESIGN:

NORFOLK FARM RESHAPES

BEEF ENTERPRISE FOR A

SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

David Cross, a livestock farmer in Norfolk, is reshaping his business

to meet the challenges of climate change, market pressures and

long-term viability. At Glovers Farm, he has transitioned from a

mixed arable-livestock model to a fully livestock-based operation,

focusing on soil health, environmental sustainability

and financial resilience.

As part of this

strategic shift,

David is involved

in the Agriculture

& Horticulture

Development Board’s

(AHDB) Beef &

Lamb Monitor Farm

programme. The

initiative has enabled him

to evaluate how different

beef production systems

could support the farm’s broader

objectives.

With AHDB support, three enterprise models were reviewed

in detail: a liveweight gain (LWG) contract, a conventional

suckler herd, and organic store cattle production.

Each system was analysed across practical and financial

metrics. Key factors included land use, forage availability,

livestock productivity, operating costs, and exposure to risk—

particularly in relation to changing weather and the growing

role of environmental schemes.

Reflecting on the decision to re-evaluate the farm’s direction,

David said: “Six years ago we realised that we needed

to change what we were doing to ensure the long-term

sustainability of the farm. The decision was made to move

from a mixed arable system to all livestock, primarily to

improve soil health but it has multiple benefits in terms of

removing input costs, balancing cashflow, risk reduction and

making more use of environmental scheme options.

“This shift in focus meant we needed

to investigate the options available

to us when considering a beef

enterprise. We originally had cattle on

a liveweight gain (LWG) contract but

the reliance on high-quality forage to

meet the targets, with the challenge

of changing weather patterns and

soil quality issues, meant I wanted to

review our options.”

The comparison showed that organic store cattle offered the

highest potential gross margin but came with greater market

volatility and reliance on organic premiums and stewardship

payments. While more profitable on paper, the model carried

higher financial risk and needed careful planning.


The LWG contract, used previously on the farm, emerged as a lower-risk, low-labour option with a balanced cost structure.

However, its success still relied on consistently high-quality grazing, increasingly affected by seasonal variation.

The suckler herd offered long-term control and a familiar setup, but came with higher labour demands and variable costs, which

reduced profitability compared with other models.

Animal movement and disease control risks were also assessed—particularly for the organic and contract systems, where

movement restrictions could impact operations and income.

The modelling work provided valuable insight into how each option could align with Glovers Farm’s long-term direction. David’s

approach is firmly focused on resilience—financial, environmental and structural. The need to future-proof against extreme

weather, rising costs and policy shifts continues to guide the farm’s next steps.

AHDB has published a full report on the enterprise review at Glovers Farm,

including a decision matrix that helps farmers compare the strengths and

challenges of each beef system. The tool supports well-informed choices by

weighing financial outcomes, labour needs and environmental implications.

Aligning enterprise choice with business goals and risk appetite remains key. Farmers are also encouraged to seek expert

advice, especially on animal health and disease risk.

To find out more about Glovers Farm, including a webinar looking at his beef enterprise, visit: ahdb.org.uk/farm-excellence/

glovers-farm

Read more about climate adaptation and find resources to help you assess your business at:

ahdb.org.uk/climate-adaptation-report

Industry News


BREED SOCIETY FOCUS | BRITISH WHITE

NATIVE SIRE EXPERIMENT

PAYING OFF FOR YORKSHIRE

SUCKLER FARM

Based near Ripon, North Yorkshire, third-generation tenant farmers Andrew and

Jenna Falshaw run a 90-cow continental-cross suckler herd on the Swinton Estate.

The tenancy, which has been held by Andrew’s family since 1937, currently consists

of 450 acres, 250 of which is permanent pasture, with the remainder growing maize,

barley, grass fodder and forage crops, all of which is used to feed to the cattle and a

flock of 90 breeding ewes.

The suckler herd typically runs a mix of four stock

bulls to produce well-grown fattening bulls and

heifers, reared on the farm’s home-grown ration

and sold either finished into Northallerton mart, or as

stores to Leyburn and Pateley Bridge. The older cows

in the herd are split between two Charolais and the

younger cows run with an easy-calving Limousin, leaving

the incoming replacement heifers to run with a bull of

another breed. In 2022, the family opted for the first time

to trial a British White on the heifers, which has so far

yielded excellent results.

Having just weighed the current group of fattening bulls

approaching 12 months old, Andrew says of the British

White crosses in the bunch: “Because they’re a native

breed, they’re used to growing with less food, and

they’ve proved it when we weighed them that living in the

same pen and on the same ration as the Charolais and

Limousin crosses, they’ve kept up with the group and

even exceeded some of the continentals. The ones we

finished and put through Northallerton last year averaged

well too, particularly for being out of first-calved heifers.”

With a background interest in livestock genetics and

a keenness to support less well-known breeds, it

was Andrew’s wife Jenna who had suggested trying

something a bit different. Jenna says: “The thing that

drew me to the British White was that they had a good

covering of beef but they also had plenty of milk, and

they could do well on pasture. The fact that I liked


BRITISH WHITE | Breed Society Focus

genetics and tracing lineage meant that

I liked the idea of supporting a rarer

breed over something that everybody

had, and that was the driving force

behind it. Andrew’s grandfather [George

Falshaw, a well-known cattle dealer

who traded cattle nationally 5 days a

week] once bought and fattened a load

of British Whites from a nearby farmer

many years ago, and he had said what

a good suckler cow he thought they

were, so I think that helped my case

when I was trying to persuade Andrew

into buying a few for ourselves.”

Prior to the arrival of a British White bull

in May 2022, the couple had initially

purchased a handful of pedigree

females from a local breeder the

previous autumn, with those cows

put to the British White to produce

purebred calves. A selection of the

homebred pure and crossbred British

White heifers were retained for bulling

in 2025, and the family are now looking

forward to seeing those genetics adding

to the maternal side of the suckler herd.

Andrew and Jenna also recently found

success at the BWCS Spring Sale,

with the first pedigree British White

bull produced under the Swinton prefix

being sold at Melton Mowbray Market’s

Premier Pedigree multi-breed event on

22 March, where they topped the British

White prices at 2,800gns with the twoyear-old

Swinton Banksy.

As demonstrated by the Falshaw family,

incorporating British White genetics

into a crossbred suckler beef system

can bring advantages to feed efficiency,

calving ease, and suckler cow output.

Added benefits, such as the quality of

the beef texture and taste, may also be

of interest to those selling beef direct

to the consumer. To learn more, visit:

www.britishwhitecattle.co.uk.


reed

S B OCIETY

UPDATES

If you have any Breed Society Updates.

Email them to:

magazinenba@nationalbeefassociation.com

ABERDEEN ANGUS

BREED DEMAND REACHES NEW HEIGHTS

The momentum behind Aberdeen-Angus sales

continues to build, with a series of record-breaking

results underscoring the breed’s strong market

demand. The latest milestone saw Netherton Eclipse

Z036 set a new breed record of £65,600 in an exclusive

online sale hosted by Marteye and Harrison and

Hetherington. The bull, an embryo by SAV Territory 7225

and out of SAV Emblynette 9811, attracted global interest

before selling in a two-way split to Barningham Angus

and Angus House Farm in Romania.

This record-breaking result follows a strong showing at

the Stirling Bull Sales, where Idvies Pink Profit Z149,

from Alistair and Graeme Fraser, topped at 32,000gns.

The Duncanziemere Jacobite W374 son was snapped up

by Drumhill Herd and Tonley Herd.

Further underlining the breed’s exceptional performance,

a new UK record for a red Aberdeen-Angus bull was set

when Mosshall Red Earl Z575 sold for 11,000gns.

WITH RECORD SALES

Offered by Messrs G & N Taylor, the Mosshall Red

Ferdinand U922 son was secured by the St Fort herd in

Fife.

The Stirling sale also saw a centre record average of

£7,727 for 66 bulls, marking a £1,542 increase on the

previous year.

Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society CEO Robert Gilchrist

highlighted the ongoing appeal of native genetics,

particularly among commercial beef producers.

“With strong beef prices, many buyers are recognising

the benefits of low-input cattle that command a market

premium,” he said. “Livestock auctions remain vital in

providing transparency and fair market value, and new

online platforms are further expanding opportunities for

buyers and sellers.”

With record sales and increasing demand, the future

looks bright for Aberdeen-Angus breeders across the UK

and beyond.

Idvies Pink Profit Z149, sold for 32000gns

Netherton Eclipse Z036


Devon Cattle | Breed Society News

DEVON CATTLE BREEDERS SOCIETY

Our annual Spring Show and Sale, held at Sedgemoor Auction Centre on Tuesday 25th March, was a resounding success.

The sale included 20 Devon bulls with buyers eager to purchase a top-quality herd sire to take home and put to work. A

clearance rate of 85% was achieved for the bulls resulting in the average soaring by £1072 on the year.

Showing commenced with 4 bull classes. First placings from the Knowstone, Larkbarrow, Champson and Stonegrove herds.

Judge, Mr David Martin, picked his Champion Male as Stonegrove Major owned by Stonegrove Livestock and Reserve as Larkbarrow

Woodland 3rd owned by Mr H Rawson. Champion Female was Kingsbury Aphrodite owned by Mr M & Mrs L Parsons and

Reserve Female Champion Exmoor Bluebell 10th owned by Mrs A Poad.

The sale followed and topping the day at 9200gns was April 2023 born Trebarfoote Agamemnon from Mrs Pamela Idelson-Smith

who made the worthwhile trip up from Bude, Cornwall, he headed home to Tiverton, Devon with Mr P Morris.

Following at 8200gns was the first from Messrs G Dart and Sons, South Molton, Devon. Champson Apollo 2nd caught the eye of

R E Richards, Helston, Cornwall. Close behind at 8000gns was the second from the Dart family, Champson Zeus. Purchased by

Mr A Holloway, Tiverton, Devon.

Hitting the 6500gns mark was the pre-sale champion, Stonegrove Major from Worcester. Next followed Rocknell Rupert 2nd from

Mr GJ Summerhayes, Tiverton, Devon hitting the price tag of 5800gns.

Females hit a ceiling of 3400gns for Cutcombe Peach 74th a 2yr old heifer from Mrs M Elliott. The final lot entered the sale ring

and sold for 3300gns, a quality cow/calf combination from Mr M & Mrs L Parsons. Show season is fast approaching, we welcome

all to come and chat about Devons with staff, Board members and our exhibitors in the cattle lines.

Champion & Reserve Champion Male

Trebarfoote Agamemnon top sale price 9200gns

Champson Apollo 2 nd sold for 8200gns

Stonegrove Major Champion Bull sold for 6500gns.


Simmental | Breed Society News

BRITISH SIMMENTAL

56,000GNS HEMINGFORD PRINCE

CHARMING SETS NEW UK & EUROPEAN

SIMMENTAL RECORD AT STIRLING!!

94 SIMMENTAL BULLS SMASH THE BREED RECORD

AVERAGE TO SET NEW MARK OF £9,832, UP £2,334

ON THE YEAR

Records were well and truly smashed in

an incredible day’s trading at the Stirling

Simmental bull sale held at United

Auctions on Monday 17th February. Reaching

dizzy new heights, 94 bulls, the most sold of

any breed over the Stirling fortnight, surged to

a remarkable average of £9832, up by £2334

on last year’s record figure! At the close of the

sale, the average was a new all-breeds record

for any beef breed at a UK auction.

Front and centre of the day was the

56,000gns paid for the pre-sale Overall

Supreme Champion, Hemingford Prince

Charming, from James & Rachel Griffin,

Hemingford Abbots, Huntingdon,

Cambridgeshire, and which is a UK and

European record for a Simmental sold at

auction.

There’s also recognition of the breeds

proven abilities in age at slaughter

and daily carcase gain, and adding

this all up it’s driving the demand

for the breed to new levels with

commercial producers. Of course the

icing on the cake has been the new

European Simmental record price

of 56,000gns for James and Rachel

Griffin’s Hemingford Prince Charming.

A MASSIVE WELL DONE TO THEM!”

Commenting, BSCS President Chris

Martindale said:

“Commercial producers are future

proofing their suckler herds with

Simmental genetics and getting

the benefits in milk, easy calving,

fertility, and ability to rear a

quality calf year on year.


Cattle Health Scheme | SRUC

STRENGTHEN YOUR HERD’S DEFENCES AGAINST INFECTIOUS DISEASE!

Practical steps can be taken on the farm to reduce the risk

from ‘iceberg’ diseases. Good biosecurity measures which

support livestock health and welfare can help control

production costs and minimise antibiotic usage.

Buyer beware!

Buying in livestock can be a risky business. A healthy-looking

animal could be carrying disease. It is worth checking to see if

vendors have followed the same strict biosecurity and testing

protocols as those from official health schemes. It is worth asking

questions and doing research prior to a sale.

Cattle Health Certification Standards (CHECS)

Breeding animal vendors are often members of official cattle

health schemes encouraged by pedigree breed societies. Check

the relevant CHECS membership databases prior to the sale.

CHECS scheme animals should be accompanied by an up-todate

certificate for up to six diseases. Check that the certificate is

within date with the animals listed and correct owner details.

CHECS pen cards display the herd’s disease status and individual

blood test results. For Neospora, and Johne’s Disease, Level

1 shows the lowest risk down to Level 5 as highest risk. TB,

however, is recorded as the number of years a farm has been

tested clear of TB. Individual animals in non CHECS accredited

herds can be sold with a pen card, however the second column

boxes showing herd accreditation will be blank. Vaccinations are

also listed.

SRUC health schemes are based on biosecurity rules and

disease testing protocols. Some diseases are best monitored by

testing individual animals while other diseases are best controlled

using a whole herd approach.

Biosecurity

The home herd should be monitored for disease before investing

in added animals! Talk with the vet to about health planning and

focusing on areas of improvement. Purchased livestock should

be isolated on arrival for at least one month and the vet should

advise on testing during this period and before any animals are

added to the herd.

Shared transport from a sale increases the risk of cross infection.

Check fence and boundary security to prevent nose to nose

contact with neighbouring animals. CHECS stipulate 3m double

ring fencing for cattle.

Practice a consistent approach to biosecurity with everyone on

the farm understanding their part in keeping infection out as well

as minimizing disease spread within it! www.cattlehealth.co.uk

Join the Premium Cattle Health Scheme

Disease control for BVD, Johne’s Disease, IBR, Leptospirosis and Neospora

Remove costly disease from your herd and safeguard health status

Provide health assurance for your customers

CHECS Bovine TB Herd Accreditation programme

T: 01835 822456 / E: HealthSchemes@sruc.ac.uk fb.com/SRUCVets @srucvets.bsky.social

Join the

Premium

Cattle Health

Scheme

today!

www.cattlehealth.co.uk

SRUC is a charity registered in Scotland: SC003712


British Wagyu | Breed Society News

BRITISH WAGYU - MARKET COMMENT

Richard Saunders,

Company Secretary,

writes:

You don’t have to look

too far in the farming

press to read about

the general decline in

numbers of calves born to

the suckler herd and the

rise in beef-from-dairy.

Although UK (GB & NI)

cattle herd numbers have

remained pretty stable over the last 10 years, it is the make-up

of the national herd which has been changing. The UK breeding

herd comprises around 3.2 million cows of which 1.8m are dairy

dams and 1.4m are beef dams (suckler cows). Over the past

10 years we have seen an ongoing downward trend in the beef

suckler herd with the herd 203,800 head (-13%) smaller versus

10 years ago (*1). Consequently, the dairy herd accounts for a

growing share of the UK breeding herd, at 57%.

Other factors at play include more use of beef semen in the

UK dairy herd, and also fewer dairy male calves due to the

uplift in female sexed semen within the UK dairy herd to breed

replacements from top-performing dairy cows. Data collected

by AHDB in the 12 months to March 2023 showed that sales of

sexed semen increased to 76.5% of all dairy semen, marking a

notable surge from 70% in 2022 (*2)

Wagyu has benefited hugely from the above factors and has

resulted in a +25% increase year-on-year in Wagyu-sired births;

membership of the BWA is also now at over 800. This growth in

membership is across all sectors: large integrated F1 schemes,

expanding Fullblood enterprises - and many others in between -

F1, F2, purebred, Fullblood, beef sucklers and dairy, through to

farm shops, wholesalers, butchers and online boxed beef to name

a few - many with their own branding and USPs. With Wagyu, one

size doesn’t fit all and it’s great to see each of these businesses

making their mark and, most importantly, getting value and return

out of their Wagyu investment.

On the retail front, one of the biggest surprises is the resurgence

in sales of fresh of beef (*3). This strong growth reflects a number

of factors: the ‘eat less but eat best’ phenomenon, rise in at-home

‘fine dining’ supermarket ranges, the cooking-from-scratch trend,

and the overall dissatisfaction with meat-free options – whether it

be on food miles/sustainability grounds, cost pressures or greater

awareness of UPFs (ultra-processed foods) and HFSS products

(high in fat, sugar and salt).

And as you can see in many of the above scenarios, the stars

very much align for British Wagyu.

*1 Figs 2012-2022. Source AHDB

*2 As at 1st June 2023. Source AHDB

*3 Beef Sales up £242.1 Million (+8.5%) or +6.8 Million kilos

in the past 12 months. Source AHDB


British Wagyu | Breed Society News

JESS EDWARDS STEPS UP TO BWA BOARD

Wyndford Wagyu’s Commercial Director, Jess Edwards, has recently been appointed to

the British Wagyu Association (BWA) Board of Directors. With previous experience at

both Holstein UK and Cogent, Jess joined Shropshire-based Wyndford Wagyu in 2020

and has been instrumental in driving the expansion of what is one of the largest Fullblood

Wagyu herds in Europe – now numbering over 475 head.

A particular focus has been on establishing an elite herd using genetics from both the USA

and Australia to produce them some of the highest-ranking genetic merit stock in the world –

including Wyndford Itoguni 308H, the world’s number one bull for marble score at +4.8.

Wyndford has also made a success of marketing their Fullblood Wagyu beef, both online

and through wholesale buyers such as Aubrey Allen. Being early adopters of the MIJ (Meat

Image Japan) digital camera, Wyndford have assessed all their carcases finished to date and

utilised carcase data to further improve their breeding programme.

Says Jess: “I am delighted to be joining the BWA Board at a time when British F1 Wagyu is enjoying tremendous growth. I’m keen to

ensure that all UK Fullblood Wagyu producers are represented and advocated for, whilst using my wider connections to bring all UK F1

producers around the table. Differentiation between F1 and Fullblood Wagyu products is essential, to ensure continued growth in the

UK. I can’t wait to get more involved in the BWA and meet more members across the UK.”

BRITISH WAGYU ASSURANCE

PARTNERS WITH INTERTEK SAI GLOBAL

British Wagyu has made great strides in not only accelerating the breeding of

Wagyu cattle but of marketing British Wagyu beef through the retail, wholesale,

foodservice and e-commerce sectors. A huge part of this success lies in the

integrity of the product, its traceability and its branding with many customers now familiar

with the British Wagyu Assured logo used in marketing and on retail packaging.

Starting initially with the Warrendale Wagyu integrated supply chain and its 800+

farmer partners, from April 2025 British Wagyu will be working with Intertek SAI

Global - the UK’s leading farm assurance body - to roll out an independent audit of

the British Wagyu Assured scheme and its industry-leading traceability, animal health

and welfare, and quality standards

Wagyu Test Member Ltd

Wagyu Grange Farm, Anyroad

Anytown

AB1 2CD

This is to certify that the above complies with the requirements of the following scheme:

Member No: 246810

Wagyu Breeders Assurance - Beef - Version 1.0

Beef Production

Certificate No: C-123456

Says Warrendale Production Director, Jamie Brownrigg, “This is an important next

step in driving forward our British Wagyu business and to ensure we safeguard our

fantastic product as well as our premium position in the marketplace.

We have worked hard to make this as farmer-friendly and cost-effective as possible

so I’m pleased to tell you that the British Wagyu assessment will be carried out, as

far as practically possible, at the same time as the usual farm audit, with the cost

of the basic bolt-on met through the current British Wagyu commercial membership

meaning there will be no additional charge to farmers.”

Issued:

Expires:

3-Dec-2024

30-Nov-2025

Calin Moldovean

President, Business Assurance

Intertek SAI Global Assurance

Originally Certified:

Current Certification:

9-May-2018

3-Dec-2024

Registered by:

Intertek SAI Global Assurance, Agriculture Department, 15 Davy Avenue, Knowlhill, Milton Keynes, MK5 8NL United Kingdom ('Intertek SAI Global')

and subject to the Intertek SAI Global Terms and Conditions for Certification. While all due care and skill was exercised in carrying out this

assessment, Intertek SAI Global accepts responsibility only for proven negligence. This certificate remains the property of Intertek SAI Global and

must be returned to Intertek SAI Global upon its request.

*SAVE THE DATE * BRITISH WAGYU CONFERENCE 14-15 MAY 2026


Beef Breed Directory

BEEF BREED DIRECTORY

www.luingcattlesociety.co.uk

Dairy Cottage, Tower Road,

Ayton, Berwickshire TD14 5QX

Welcome! This Directory is your

one-stop shop for finding the contact

details you need for the

UK’s Beef Breeds

Tel: 01890 781358 Mob: 07592 139708

Email: secretary@luingcattlesociety.co.uk

BREEDING SALES

February, May & October

Fieldsman: Charles Symons

T: 01573 440207 Mob: 07971 231885

E: cjmsymons1@gmail.com

PART OF FARMING’S FUTURE

www.redrubydevon.co.uk

WAGYU BREEDERS

ASSOCIATION

A LEAGUE OF

ITS OWN

EASY CALVING - DOCILE

info@britishwagyu.co.uk

www.britishwagyu.co.uk

Unit 1, The Stable Yard, Woodhayes Farm, Honiton, Devon, EX14 4TP

t: 01404 47863 e: dcbs@redrubydevon.co.uk

Avenue M,

Stoneleigh Park,

Kenilworth,

Warwickshire. CV8 2RG

Tel: 02476 697222

Email:

charolais@charolais.co.uk

www.charolais.co.uk

01377 227 790

info@stabiliser.co.uk

www.stabiliser.co.uk

nba 34 x 68 mm 2023 v2.indd 08/03/2023 1

13:25:42

SIMMENTAL

THE BREED YOU CAN BANK ON

THE BRITISH BLUE

CATTLE SOCIETY

Holme House

The Dale, Ainstable

Carlisle,Cumbria CA4 9RH

01768 870522

info@britishbluecattle.org

SETTING THE

STANDARD

www.britishbluecattle.org

British Bazadaise

Cattle Society

01666 860470

enquiry@bazadaise.co.uk

GET MORE MEAT

MORE MUSCLE

AND MORE PROFIT

WITH EASY CALVING

EASY CARE

BAZADAISE CATTLE

www.bazadaise.org.uk

PROFIT THROUGH

EFFICIENCY

MATERNAL MAINSTAYS

OF THE SUCKLER HERD

*SIMMENTAL = NO.1

CONTINENTAL BREED

FOR AGE AT SLAUGHTER

* NATIONAL BEEF EVALUATION DECEMBER 2022

THE BRITISH SIMMENTAL CATTLE SOCIETY

+44 (0) 2476 696513

information@britishsimmental.co.uk

www.britishsimmental.co.uk


NBA Breed Directory (34x68.5mm) Spring.indd 08/03/2023 1

09:25:00

MELTON MOWBRAY MULTIBREED SALE – 27 MARCH 2021

WELSHPOOL SPRING SALE – 20 MAY 2021

Beef Breed Directory

THE BRITISH PIEMONTESE

CATTLE SOCIETY LTD

National beef association

Fighting for the

future of the

British Beef Industry

SALERS

MATERNAL

MAGIC

The Hereford does it all

33 EDEN GRANGE, LITTLE CORBY

CARLISLE CA4 8QW

LOOKING FOR PIEMONTESE

CONTACT CRAIG MATKIN

TEL: 07876 613221

ALL OTHER ENQUIRIES TO

CRAIG CULLEY

TEL: 01228 562946

secretary@piemontese.info

www.piemontese.org.uk

www.nationalbeefassociation.com

SUITS ANY SIRE

&

SUITS ANY SYSTEM

SALERS CATTLE SOCIETY OF THE UK

Jasmine Cottage, Gavinton, TD11 3QP

secretary@salers.uk

07903 626249

WWW.SALERS.UK

Visit www.herefordcattle.org to find out more

01432 272057

GRAZING SYSTEMS | BEEF QUALITY

ENVIRONMENTAL SCHEMES

Gascon

Cattle

Society

Breed Secretary:

Pauline Milton

07787722497

gasconcattle@btconnect

.com

The Beef Shorthorn Cattle Society

Society Pavilion, Avenue M,

Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, CV8 2RG

www.britishwhitecattle.co.uk

01954 232796 | 07771 333303

www.gascon.org.uk

A versatile hardy suckler

breed

t: 02475 099146

e: info@beefshorthorn.org

www.beefshorthorn.org

www.aberdeen-angus.co.uk

01738 622477

Patron: Her Majesty The Queen

Stirling Agricultural Centre

Stirling FK9 4RN

Tel: 01786 446866

info@highlandcattlesociety.com

www.highlandcattlesociety.com

Aberdeen-Angus, its more than a breed, it’s a brand.

The perfect

suckler cow

w w w . r e d p o l l . o r g

( 01245 600032

secretary@redpoll.co.uk


NBA Membership

National Beef Association

Membership

WHO ARE THE NBA?

The NBA is a charity, set up by beef farmers, for beef farmers. We

exist to express the views of real farmers to politicians to ensure

they are understood and represented in policy. Over the years we

have fought against unfair trading practises, advised Government

on disease management policies and now are working hard to

ensure beef farmers have a future post Brexit.

WHY SHOULD YOU JOIN US?

Without the support of fellow farmers we wouldn’t be able to carry

out our work on behalf of the industry. The NBA is also great for

networking and sharing knowledge. Members have the chance

to join regional committees which feed into our

policy strategies and we run many industry farm

walks, meetings and trips across the UK which

are discounted or free for our membership.

FROM

£40

PER YEAR

MEMBERS BENEFITS

Members receive a weekly e-newsletter, which includes the latest

market information and NBA and industry news. We also produce

a quarterly magazine for our membership including beef research,

policy positions and health articles. Our members have access

to our breeding terms and conditions of sale FOC, a step by step

guide to selling breeding animals.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Standard subscription: £109.00

(£25 zero rated, £70 taxable at 20%)

Under 26/student subscription: £40.00

For more information call NBA head office on 01434 601005 or

email info@nationalbeefassociation.com. Visit our website to join

today.

Corporate Membership

THE

NBA IS GRATEFUL TO THE

FOLLOWING COMPANIES AND

ORGANISATIONS FOR THEIR SUPPORT.

FROM

£300+VAT

PER YEAR

For more information on Corporate Membership packages from NBA, please call 01434 601005 or email info@nationalbeefassociation.com

GOLD MEMBERS

SHEARWELL DATA

Animal identification systems:

excellent cattle and sheep tags,

comprehensive on-farm software

and full management systems

using EID.

www.shearwell.co.uk

FOR FARMERS

We supply a range of

feedstuffs that cater to both

traditional and the more

technically minded farmers

and producers.

MOLE VALLEY

All your technical advice and

products to maximise the individual

beef enterprise profits.

www.molevalleyfarmers.com

CORPORATE MEMBERS

Agri-Lloyd International Limited

www.agrilloyd.com

Boehringer Ingelheim

www.boehringer-ingelheim.co.uk

KW Feeds

www.kwfeeds.co.uk

Sell My Livestock

www.sellmylivestock.co.uk

AHDB Meat Services

www.beefandlamb.ahdb.org.uk

C & D Auction Marts Limited

www.cdauctionmarts.co.uk

Livestock Lounge

www.livestocklounge.com

Thirsk Farmers Auction Mart Ltd

www.thirskmarket.co.uk

ANM Group Ltd

www.anmgroup.co.uk

Craven Cattle Marts Limited

www.ccmauctions.com

McCartneys

www.mccartneys.co.uk

Tudor, Lawson, Dallimore & Parry

www.dolgellauvets.co.uk

B.I.G Ltd

www.bigbeef.co.uk

Frome Livestock Auctioneers Ltd

www.fromelivestock.com

Meadow Quality Ltd

www.meadowq.co.uk

Berrystock Feeds

www.berrystockfeeds.co.uk

Harrison & Hetherington

www.harrisonandhetherington.co.uk

NWF Agriculture

www.nwfagriculture.co.uk

Bishopton Veterinary Group

www.bishoptonvets.co.uk

Hexham & Northern Marts

www.hexhammart.co.uk

Rumenco

www.rumenco.co.uk


#

NBA Membership

Join the

NBA

Today

Application Form

OR JOIN NOW ONLINE

Visit www.nationalbeefassociation.com/about/how-to-join today and help

us make sure your industry’s future is secure. Alternately, fill out the form

below and return to us via post.

NAME:

ADDRESS:

POSTCODE:

PHONE NUMBER:

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**If you would like to voluntarily over-pay on your subscription; please enter the amount below or tick the appropriate box.

Annual subscription £109.00 (£25 zero rated, £70 taxable at 20%) Voluntary subscription of £ Under 26* £40

*Members under 26 years old - please provide your date of birth: D D M M Y Y

METHODS OF PAYMENT:

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Card Number: Start Date: M M Y Y Expiry Date: M M Y Y

Security Code: (last 3 digits on reverse of card)

Issue No. (Maestro Only)

CHEQUE

Made payable to the National Beef Association.

STANDING ORDER

To Bank plc:

Address:

Please pay Lloyds Bank plc, Malvern, WR14 4QG. Sort code: 30-95-41 Account No: 23358760 For the credit of the National Beef Association

The sum of: (circle selected amount) £109.00 (£25 zero rated, £70 taxable at 20%) Voluntary amount £ Under 26* £40

Commencing: Immediately and annually thereafter, until further notice. PLEASE QUOTE PAYMENT REFERENCE:

Please cancel any previous Standing Order in favour of the beneficiary named above, under this reference.

Membership No: (For internal use)

Name of Account: Sort Code: Account No:

SIGNED:

DATE:

The NBA complies fully with the General Data Protection Regulation. Please see our privacy policy for more details, which can be requested from the NBA Head Office. For any queries or

concerns regarding GDPR, please write to: Data Protection at National Beef Association, Concorde House, 24 Warwick New Road, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, CV32 5JG

Please use Gift Aid to make your subscription worth more to NBA. For every pound you give us, we could earn an extra 25p

from the Inland Revenue. Gift Aid Declaration: I want the National Beef Association to treat all subscriptions I make from the date of

this declaration until I notify you otherwise as a Gift Aid donation. I am a UK taxpayer and understand that if I pay less Income Tax and/

or Capital Gains Tax than the amount of Gift Aid claimed on all my donations in that tax year it is my responsibility to pay any difference.

TO GIFT AID PLEASE TICK HERE

Please return this form to: National Beef Association, Concorde House, 24 Warwick New Road, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, CV32 5JG


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