THE shearing season got off to a flying and early start for Hereford's Holme Lacy College students this week in preparation for the Herefordshire Federation of Young Farmers' Club rally at Ballingham Hall, Ballingham, on Saturday.
"Although it may seem early to be shearing," says course co-ordinator Charlotte Gibb,"we have to start this early so that young shearers can have some practice before the rally and also to go shearing later in the season at home or on the college farm."
The college runs two-day courses for beginners working towards the British Wool Marketing Board blue seal certificate and for improvers working towards their bronze certificate. Courses are taken by British Wool Marketing Board judge and trainer David Williams who farms at Kington.
Shearing has enabled David to travel the world, working in countries as far apart as Norway and New Zealand. He was also a member of the Welsh shearing team.
To enter the sheep shearing competition at the rally, Young Farmers must hold either the National Proficiency Test Council Certificate of Competence in shearing or their British Wool Marketing Board Blue Seal certificate.
In the five years prior to foot and mouth, Holme Lacy College did a lot to promote shearing in the county. For details, contact the college on 01432 870316.
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