37,000GNS DENIZES NUGGET LEADS RECORD SIMMENTAL AVERAGE AT FEBRUARY 2024 STIRLING BULL SALE

37,000GNS DENIZES NUGGET LEADS RECORD SIMMENTAL AVERAGE AT FEBRUARY 2024 STIRLING BULL SALE

• 95 bulls set new February record average of £7498 (+£238)
• 21 bulls sell for 10,000gns and over, with 53 in all at 6000gns and more
• 5 Denizes bulls average £17,640
• Broombrae bull sells to Australian buyer
• 11 bulls sell to Orkney
• Clearance rate of 77%
• Bull Sale grosses £712,310

Denzies Nugget 37,000gns

The June 2022 born Denizes Nugget from M A Barlow & Sons, Ulnes, Nr Leyland, Lancashire, sold for 37,000gns to lead what was another record trade for the Simmental breed at the Stirling Bull Sale held at United Auctions, on Monday 19th February 2024.

No fewer than 21 bulls sold at five-figure prices with 95 in all cashing in at £7498, up £238 on last year’s record mark.

In what was a remarkable day’s trading for them, the eye-catching quality team of five Denizes bulls, all by the homebred stock sire Denizes Hamish, grossed £88,200 to average an incredible £17,640. Denizes Nugget is out of Ashland Topaz Janet, whose maternal sister is the highly-noted Ashland Topaz Lopez. At the pre-sale show, judged by Stuart Barclay of the noted Harestone prefix, Insch, Aberdeenshire, Nugget was one of three Denizes bulls to claim red tickets before moving on to win the day’s Reserve Intermediate Championship.

Come the much-anticipated sale time, and in front of a packed ring, Denizes Nugget reached the 37,000gns mark before being knocked down to Jimmy & Vikki Wood for their high-profile Popes herd at Dutton, Preston, Lancashire. Speaking afterwards Vikki Wood said: “This bull had a bit of everything. When he walked into the ring he just had that presence, character and bounce that caught your eye. He’s a long, clean, well grown bull with plenty of style, who walked well and is not overdone. There’s still plenty for him to grow into and we think he’s a bull with a lot of future in him. With the bull in himself, the depth of proven breeding behind him, and some tremendous performance figures across the board, we’re excited to see how he gels with our females”. The 37,000gns is the top price the Woods have paid to date for a bull at auction in the UK and Vikki went on to say: “The bull has the full package and you have to pay for quality to hopefully take that next step with the herd in breeding top quality females and bulls as well. Nugget will be put to some heifers within the next few weeks and thereafter will be given the chance of some cow.” The Popes herd presently comprises of 60 breeding females.

Over the three days of the sale the Denizes pen of five bulls drew huge attention from both commercial producers and pedigree breeders. Come sale time the 37,000gns top price was accompanied by further prices of 14,000gns; 13,000gns; 12,000gns; and 8000gns to add up to the herd’s most successful sale to date. The top price also eclipsed the herd’s leading sale price of 30,000gns achieved for Denizes Lancelot in February 2022. Speaking afterwards John Barlow said: “The aim of the Denizes herd is to breed first quality bulls with an easy muscling, that have width over the plates, walk well, have good heads and breed character, and are backed up with breeding, figures and health status. We’re trying to tick as many boxes for commercial producers as possible and it was great to see two bulls at 14,000gns and 12,000gns go commercially today. To breed a bull like Denizes Nugget for 37,000gns, and for him to be bought by a top pedigree herd, is just a real bonus on top. We wish the Wood family well with Nugget and really look forward to seeing his progeny in due course.”

Wolfstar Nobleman 17,000gns

Alex and Ross King’s Wolfstar herd from Ormiston, Tranent, East Lothian also enjoyed a top day when selling three bulls to average a fantastic £14,700. Leading the way for them was Wolfstar Nobleman who sold for 17,000gns, the second top price of the day, to Tom Lyth, Heatherhouse, Tankerness, Orkney. May 2022 born, Wolfstar Nobleman, the first prize winner in class six, is an embryo calf sired by Curaheen Bandit and out of the top breeding female Wolfstar Forget-Me-Not whose previous progeny include the 17,000gns Wolfstar Jimmy Choo; Wolfstar Kolisi who sold to Cogent, and the retained stockbull Wolfstar Ivan.

Tom Lyth moved from Lancashire to Orkney some six years ago to ‘follow his dream’ of buying his own farm. At present he has a total of 100 Luing cows which he splits equally between Simmental bulls and purebred Luing bulls. On a recent visit to Wolfstar, he was shown the bulls heading to Stirling and immediately picked out Nobleman as being one to keep an eye on. Commenting he said: “I really liked his breeding but he’s a bonny bull, very well put together, and just the type that I like”. From here Tom hopes to take some semen from Wolfstar Nobleman and with him given some work thereafter. With a pedigree herd being established Tom’s aim is that Nobleman will be joined by some Simmental heifers in the very near future! Orkney buyers again featured prominently throughout the sale with eleven bulls in all heading back to the islands.

Wolfstar Nasa 14,000gns

The Reserve Junior Champion, from the same home, Wolfstar Nasa, made 14,000gns when selling to Pitgaveny Farm, Elgin. Nasa is sired by the privately purchased Islavale Guy and is out of Wolfstar Ivy, another Team Celtic-sired cow. Winner of the last class of the day, this November 2022 born bull will be used across both commercial and pedigree cows with Pitgaveny running 170 Simmental commercial cows, spring and autumn calvers, and ten pedigree females. Speaking of his purchase the herd manager Geoff Anderson said: “I saw this bull at the inspection and watched him again through the judging and just really liked him. He’s a bull with style, depth, and great width to him, has proven breeding on both sides, and carries top figures for milk at +13.”

Building on what has been a strong run of sales and commercial demand for Simmental bulls and females, the sale saw 95 bulls in all sell for £7498 (+£238) and a new breed record average for February Stirling Sales. This latest sale was the seventh in a row at Stirling where the Simmental breed has set a new record average mark and the ongoing commercial momentum in the breed was again warmly welcomed by the Society’s President Norman Robson who said:
“There’s an ever-growing recognition of the Simmental breed’s ability to add value, efficiency and profitability to commercial herds and this is what’s continuing to drive the sustained and increasing demand at the point of sale. Prior to this sale we were able to highlight further independently verified figures over some ten years that showed the breed’s percentage advantages in daily carcase gain over both continental, and native sired progeny. Maybe most significantly, whatever the sire, the best performing progeny can be shown to be out of Simmental sired females and this is a further big driver for the breed. Add this in to the Simmental’s abilities at age at slaughter, with significantly reduced finishing costs, and less environmental impact, and it really does add up to money for producers. First quality bulls with width, good tops, were correct on their legs and with good figures, particularly for calving ease and milk, were much in demand and easily sold.”

Denizes Newton 14,000gns

At the same 14,000gns mark was another of the team of five from the Denizes pen and in the shape of the winner of class nine, Denizes Newton. This August 2022 born bull was a powerful Hamish son out of the herd’s noted Trixibelle line which has previously sold bulls up to 20,000gns. With top calving ease figures this bull was bought by commercial producers K Park & Sons, Dalpeddar Farm, Sanquhar, Dumfriesshire.

Backmuir Nate 13,000gns

Selling at 13,000gns was the day’s Senior Champion and Reserve Overall, Backmuir Nate, from Reece & Andrew Simmers, Backmuir Farm, Keith. April 2022 born, this bull is by the 18,000gns Wolfstar Jackaroo, the Overall Champion at Stirling in February 2020, and is out of Backmuir Kreole’s Koala. This upstanding bull, with a +10 figure for Maternal (Milk) was purchased by DC Houldey, Kirkleton House, Waterbeck, Lockerbie. Following the sale Clive Houldey said: “We saw this bull for the first time in the show ring and were really impressed. He has a real size and power about him and that was something we were looking for the herd. The father and son team of Clive and Harry run the Manor Park and Manor Fields pedigree herds respectively and alongside a commercial suckler herd. The intent from here is that Backmuir Nate will be put to work in the middle of June, and he will go on to a mix of pedigree and commercial cows.

Denzies Neff 13,000gns


At the same price of 13,000gns was another from the Denizes pen and this time the June 2022 born Denizes Neff 22 who had stood second in his class to the day’s top priced bull. Again by Denizes Hamish this bull is out of the Blackford Galaxy sired Denizes Melody 32nd, a maternal sister to Denizes Melody 52nd who sold for 10,000gns at the Next Gen III Sale. With strong figures across the board, Denizes Neff 22 was purchased by John Jeffrey for the Kersknowe herd at Kelso, Roxburghshire. Of Neff Mr Jeffrey said: “We thought a lot of this bull and he came out of just a tremendous pen of good bulls with connectivity in the breeding. Neff is a bull with shape but not extreme and had the figures to back his breeding. Denizes Neff 22 will be settled in at Kersknowe before being given some work in June within the herd which comprises of fifty breeding females.”

Kilbride Farm Nebulus 13,000gns

The third bull at the 13,000gns price was the winner of Class 10, Kilbride Farm Nebulus 22 from WH Robson & Sons, Doagh, Ballyclare. Entirely homebred this September 2022 born bull is by Kilbride Farm Jetstream 18 (P) and is out of Kilbride Farm Eunice 175F (TF) who is a maternal sister to the 20,000gns Kilbride Farm Comber. Continuing the trend of bulls selling that had good figures, Kilbride Farm Nebulus was bought by Delfur Farms, Dundurcas Farm House, Rothes for the Delfur herd of 120 breeding females. Commenting the herd manager Garry Patterson said: “This is a bull to put to heifers in the herd initially and he carries good figures for calving and milk, and generally across the traits. He’s a bull with great length to him, with style and breed character, and is the dark red colour I like. Nebulus comes from a good pedigree, is new blood to the Delfur herd and I think he’s a bull that will click well with the Islavale Magnum daughters in the herd. He’ll run across the heifers first before being given a chance of the cows”. Another good team of Kilbride Farm bulls saw five sell in all to gross a very solid £41,475.

Rockytop Nero 12,000gns


Another herd to enjoy a strong day’s trading was the Rockytop herd of Gary & Angela Christie, Glass, Huntly who sold to a top of 12,000gns and with five in all grossing £38,535. The herd’s top price of 12,000gns came in the shape of Rockytop Nero 22 who stood second in his class to the day’s Overall Supreme Champion. May 2022 born, this bull is by Glenturk Kingpin 19 and is out of the Kilbride Farm Arklow daughter Rockytop Corissa’s Honey. With a +10 figure for Maternal (Milk), this bull was purchased by Mr B Grant for the Dellfield herd at Druid Temple Farm, Inverness-shire. Speaking after the sale Stuart Grant said: “We hadn’t planned on buying a bull but will need one next year and when we saw Rockytop Nero we just really liked him. He’s a bull that’s very correct on his legs, he’s square, solid and not too extreme in anyway, and just has a bit of everything in him that we like We run 160 cows, of which around 50 are pure, so he will be used on them for a start and likely on the commercial cows at a forward time.”

Denzies Nacho 12,000gns


Next up at 12,000gns was the first prize winner in Class Eight, Denizes Nacho 22 from the Barlows. July 2022 born, this thick ended bull with shape, width, and strong figures went to commercial buyers JL Drysdale, Forestmill Farm, Alloa, Clackmannan. This calf, whose brother sold for 12,000gns at the corresponding sale last year, is out of Annick Trixibelle 19th.

Corskie Nitrate 12,000gns


From another strong line up, two bulls from the Corskie herd of WJ&J Green, Corskie, Garmouth, Fochabers, topped at 12,000gns. The first of these was Corskie Nitrate who had stood second in his class. By the 10,000gns Kilbride Farm Haka, this September 2022 born bull is out of Corskie Kigem, an Auchorachan Farmer 14 daughter. With one of the highest Maternal (Milk) figures in the catalogue at +13, this bull also went commercially when selling to T Clark & Sons, Abbey Farm, Madderty, Crieff. At the same mark of 12,000gns was the September 2022 born Corskie Newry (22) who was purchased by Jim & Patricia Goldie for their Newbiemains herd at Newbie Mains Farm, Annan. Also by Kilbride Farm Haka, Corskie Newry 22 is out of Tawley Hanna who has previously had sons sell to 7000gns. Commenting, Jim Goldie said: “We were looking for a stylish, young, well grown bull, that was correct with plenty of breed character, and felt Corskie Newry really matched up to that. He’s got plenty of breeding behind him and being out of an Irish bred cow it’s also a bit of a different blood line”. Plans from here are that the bull will be run with up to 25 heifers in the Springtime. Eight Corskie bulls grossed £67,515 with other prices including 8000gns; 7800gns; 7000gns x 2; 6000gns; and 4500gns.

Corskie Newry 12,000gns
Saltire Nemesis 11,500gns

Saltire Nemesis 22 from J&G Houliston, Drem, North Berwick made 11,500gns when selling commercially to AG Whiteford, South Keithney, Burnhervie, Aberdeenshire. May 2022 born this bull, by the prolific AI sire Saltire Impressive, is out of the Popes Barclay daughter Saltire Felicity. Later in the sale the Houlistons also sold Saltire Nobleman, a Saltire Logan 20 son, for 7500gns to Douganhill Farms, Castle Douglas.

Kersknowe Noah 11,000gns

The long established Kersknowe Simmental herd of Mr J Jeffrey, Kelso, Roxburghshire made 11,000gns of their senior bull Kersknowe Noah 22. April 2022 born Kersknowe Noah stood third in his class won by the Overall Reserve Champion. Sired by the Woodhall Ferrari son Aultmore Jasper 18, and out of Kersknowe Head Girl, this was another five figure bull to go to a commercial producer when knocked down to Aucheneck Estates, Lillearn, By Glasgow.

Kilbride Farm Nugget 11,000gns

Another from the Robson family, this time Kilbride Farm Nugget 22 (P) (TF), made 11,000gns when going for commercial use to S McClymont & Son, Yarrow, Selkirk. This August 2022 born bull offered a new bloodline being the first son at sale by the herd’s imported homozygous polled stock bull, Flop Agrochyt, and out of Kilbride Farm Dora 88 IP (P), a Sneumgaard Imperator (PP) daughter. WH Robson & Sons sold five bulls in all at the sale with their top prices of 13,000gns and 11,000gns being joined by others at 7500gns; 4800gns; and 3200gns.

Broombrae Noble 11,000gns

Bringing an international flavour to the sale the August 2022 born Broombrae Noble N12 22 (P) from Gordon Clark, Auchtermuchty, Cupar, made 11,000gns when selling to Australian Simmental breeder Knox Farms Pty Ltd, New South Wales. Another bull with strong performance figures, Broombrae Noble N12 22 (P) is by Wolfstar Kolisi 19 (P) and is out of Broombrae Rosina K8.

Wolfstar Nonu 11,000gns

Continuing their top day the Wolfstar herd sold the April 2022 born Wolfstar Nonu 22 for 11,000gns. This April 2022 born bull is one of the first sons to be offered at sale by Glenturk Lord of the Rings described as ‘the easiest calving bull we’ve had at Wolfstar’. Nonu is out of Wolfstar Kiwi who is a full sister to the 18,000gns Wolfstar Jackaroo. With a +11 figure for Maternal (Milk) Wolfstar Nonu 22 was bought by commercial producer G&A Milne, Standingstones, Durris, Kincardineshire. Wolfstar’s three bulls sold on the day made 17,000gns; 14,000gns; and 11,000gns.

Newbiemains Neymar 11,000gns

The final bull at 11,000gns was Newbiemains Neymar 22 from Jim & Patricia Goldie, Nebie Mains Farm Annan. Sired by Annick Klondyke 19 EX94 and out of Newbiemains Klass Act VG88, a Moorglen Hillbilly EX91 daughter, this bull was sold to the Borders and IHG Warden, Hawick, Roxburghshire.

Ballinalare Farm Navigator 10,000gns

Taking the total to twenty one bulls at five figures, four bulls made 10,000gns. The first of these was Ballinalare Farm Navigator from Mr J & Mr A Wilson, Ballinalare Farm, Dorans Hill Newry. Sired by the popular AI sire Ballinalare Farm Galaxy 15, and out of the Omorga Murray daughter Ballinalare Farm Delta, this July 2022 born bull stood second in his class. With a Maternal (Milk) figure of + 10, Ballinalare Farm Navigator 22 was sold to another noted commercial producer in the shape of Philiphaugh Estates, Old Mill farm, Selkirk.

Overhill House Nikey 10,000gns


The day’s Intermediate and Overall Supreme Champion was the winner of Class Five, Overhill House Nikey 22 from Richard McCulloch, Armadale, West Lothian. In what has been a truly remarkable run, Overhill House have won the Supreme Championship at the last four Simmental Society Sales at which they have attended. Their Champion here was another son of the 26,000gns Pistyll Kingsman, who bred the herd’s 46,000gns Overhill House Neo sold in October at Stirling last year and is out of Overhill House Ice Cone. Purchasing the Champion bull was Jim & Elizabeth Dyet for his Merkland herd at East Merkland Farm, Strathaven, Lanarkshire. Commenting Jim said: “Overhill House Nikey is just a tremendous Simmental bull and we’re delighted to have got him for our Merkland pedigree herd. We immediately picked him out at the show on Sunday in his class but when he was placed Champion we thought we might not be able to get him. He’s a bull with serious length and one of the best top lines that I’ve seen in a long time. A bull with a natural power to him, he’s got shape, terrific conformation, and is very breedy. We think, and very much hope, that he’ll click with the type of females we have here at East Merkland. He’ll get settled in and given the chance of one or two before being put to the very best 25-30 of our cows from June onwards”. The Merkland herd comprises of ninety breeding females in all.

Islavale Novak 10,000gns


Taking the Junior Championship and selling for 10,000gns was the winner of Class 12, Islavale Novak from the prolific herd of WS Stronach, Berryleys Farm, Keith, Banffshire. This stylish October 2022 born bull came to Stirling with a bit of a show record behind him having been Senior Male Champion at the 2023 Stars of the Future Calf Show. With breeding behind him, Novak is by Coose Lincoln EX90 whose sons sold at Stirling have averaged 11,000gns, and is out of the Curaheen Giant daughter Islavale Jazz. Buying this bull was Thomas Gray, Balquharrage, Lennoxtown. Bringing a team of predominantly junior bulls this year, the Islavale herd sold seven in all to gross £50,925 and average £7275.

Springfield Neptune 10,000gns


The final bull at the 10,000gns mark was Springfield Neptune from Gavin Brown, Springfield Farm, Penicuik. April 2022 born this bull is by the herd’s noted sire Islavale Jabba, who was the online European Simmental Champion 2023, and is out of Springfield ivory a half sister to Springfield Minstrel who was sold for 6800gns to the Popes herd. At the Simmental Youngstock Show at Borderway Agri Expo in2023, Springfield Neptune had stood as Senior Champion and Reserve Overall Champion. Purchasing him here, and another to Orkney, was J&R Stanger, South Seatter, Sandwick. Springfield Neptune had stood second in his class to his teammate Springfield Niagra who, two lots later, sold for 8500gns to H MacDonald, Mains of Dalvey, Morayshire. Niagra, also by Islavale Jabba and this time out of Springfield Italia, was second in his class to Springfield Neptune at the aforementioned 2023 Simmental Youngstock Show.

Habton Nev 9,000gns


Selling for the first time at Stirling was Alex Bulmer from Coultas Farm, Malton, North Yorkshire who made 9,000gns for the second bull in the ring Habton Nev 22. This February 2022 born bull is by the herd’s 15,000gns stock bull Backmuir Kraken and is out of Corskie Kelly, a Drumagarner Hughes daughter. Another heading to the islands he was bought by GT&S Coghill, Muce, Birsay, Orkney.

*In a small sale of four Simmental females the top price was 2300gns paid for Fallhills Nikki (P) from Bruce Lambie, Howgate, Penicuik.  April 2022 born this heifer is by Wolfstar Just Do It 18 (P), and is out of Fallhills Kate (TF), an Islavale Gallant 2 15 daughter.  Fallhills Nikki (P) was another purchase by Australian Simmental breeder Knox Farms Pty Ltd, Crookwell, New South Wales.

OTHER LEADING BULL PRICES INCLUDED:
8,500gns Lot 21 Springfield Niagara sold to H Macdonald, Mains of Dalvey, Advie, Morayshire
8,000gns Lot 77 Rockytop Napoleon sold to R Garden, Culfosie, Aberdeenshire
8,000gns Lot 78 Denizes Nero sold to WSL Muir, Upper Onston, Stenness, Orkeny
8,000gns Lot 126 Islavale Norton sold to JR & JA Barron, Findowrie, Brechin, Angus
8,000gns Lot 132 Corskie Nerve sold to C & M Bruce, Tillyeve, Udny, Ellon
8,000gns Lot 161 Braegarrie Nightrider sold to A & W Barrowman, Mid Knockglass Farm, Stranraer

AVERAGE:
95 Bulls £7948 (+£238)

Overall Championship – Stirling Bull Sales February 2024
CENTRE WEST CLUB REPORT

CENTRE WEST CLUB REPORT

It has been a variable and challenging year for all our members, and we have seen a change round on the committee. Mark Sallis and David Savins stepped down from their roles as Chairman and Vice Chairman, which has been taken on by Josh Evans and me. We have amalgamated the secretary and treasurer’s role, which Clare Price will continue with. John Fellowes has been the treasurer for many years and has done a sterling job of keeping the finances in order and offering priceless advice and wisdom, whilst serving on the committee. All the club members would like to thank them all for their efforts for the Centre West Club.
Chairman – Richard Price
Vice Chairman – Josh Evans
Treasurer / Secretary – Clare Price

In 2023, we have organised a number of events which include a club meeting, farm walk, annual herd competition and a post Christmas dinner. The club met at the Halford Inn in Warwickshire to discuss options and ideas for the future of the club. Like a number of societies and organisations, attracting new members is a challenge, but we have managed to bring in some fresh faces this year. With Josh Evans as Vice-Chairperson, we hope to be able to attract a number of his fellow young farmers, which is an organisation that he has been heavily involved with. A number of actions were agreed, and we aim to build on these over the next twelve months. We welcome our new members which will help us move forward positively.

Visit to Daylesford Organics

On the 20th of October we visited Daylesford Organics courtesy of Lord and Lady Bamford. The Farms Director Richard Smith gave us an in-depth tour and overview of this incredible business. We were also extremely fortunate to see behind the scenes of how the business works and what they are aiming to achieve over the coming years.

Visit to Daylesford Organics

Our herd competition was judged by Mr Chris Williams of Clinwill. A keen Hereford breeder for many years, with a wealth of knowledge of livestock and herd health. Chris visited the seven herds that had entered all categories, which he said would not be easy! His observations were regarding the passion and dedication to the Simmental breed and how he was impressed with the innovative ideas that people were exploring to create profitability for the long term.

Chris Willams speaking after the meal and highlighting the necessity of the basics of nutrition and knowing your herd health status.

Herd Competition Results

Clare Price winning Small Herd with Whalegreen Simmentals

Small Herd
1st Clare Price ‘Whalegreen Simmentals’
2nd David Bush ‘Chapman‘
3rd Jenny Lewis ‘Biddlesden‘ and Judith Cockerill ‘Farnborough’

Richard Bowley winning Large Herd with Bowley Simmentals

Large Herd
1st C.M. Mercer ‘Bowley’
2nd James Shouler ‘Alchester’
3rd C.H. Evans and Son ‘Wroxall’

Best Cow Family
‘Wroxall’ C.H.Evans and Son

Best Stock Bull
‘Farnborough’ Judith Cockerill

Best Group of Maiden Heifers
‘Bowley’ C.M. Mercer

Best Group of In-Calf Heifers
‘Alchester’ James Shouler

Best calf at foot Born 2023
‘Bowley’ C.M. Mercer

Judges Special Award
‘Wroxall’ For the family’s vision within the new regime of their business. Overseas sales and a general drive and ambition to move the breed forward.

The Centre West Club has a number of ideas for the membership for 2024 and we look forward to catching up soon!

EAST ANGLIAN CLUB REPORT

EAST ANGLIAN CLUB REPORT

It’s great to report that 2023 was a busy and successful year for the East Anglian Simmental group. With member numbers continuing to increase, and being at a record high, it is definitely a club that is thriving. With a great mix of youth and experience hopefully this will continue into the future.

It has been another fantastic year for animals from across the region with herds from the club supporting several shows and sales this year.

Judge John Barlow with Sally Liverton, Simon Key and Champion Bull Hollybrook Maximum and Key Marvel at the Melton Mowbray Multi-breed Pedigree Sale.

The first significant achievement was at the Melton Mowbray multi-breed Show and Sale. We are proud to say that four herds from our club made the trip to support the sale and it was Hollybrook Maximum from Chris and Zara Curson who claimed breed champion, with Key Marvel from Simon Key taking reserve champion. Hollybrook Maximum also went on to claim reserve interbreed champion and sold for the top price of 3,900gns. Although with only a small selection of Simmental’s on offer at this fledgling show and sale we hope that with such success we will see a growth in numbers in years to come.

Hemingford Nelson

The biggest success goes to our new club members James and Rachel Griffin of the Hemingford Herd with their March 2022 born bull Hemingford Nelson. Not only did he claim first place in his class at Stirling in October, he went on to secure Reserve Senior champion and sold to the renowned Auchorachan herd for 11,000gns. We want to say a massive congratulations to James and Rachel and hope your success continues in the coming year.

Moving into the show season and our very own Simon Key kicked had the huge privilege of judging at the Royal Highland Show. What an honour it was for him to judge at such a prestigious show, and we at the club are very proud of him.

Again members from the East Anglian region were very successful at both nationwide and local shows with breeders bringing home rosettes and sashes from near and far.

Sam Steggles of the Wacton Herd with Denizes Eve’s Beauty & Holly Lutkin with Fircovert Neptune, Taking first place with the pairs at the Suffolk show.

The Suffolk show saw the return of the Wacton herd to the show circuit, and it was Denizes Eve’s Beauty 7th bred by the Barlow family who claimed breed champion for Sam Steggles, with Heathbrow Jasmine taking reserve breed champion for D.A and L.A Sapsed. Sam and his team went on to do well this season at further shows and also claimed the Imex Plate at the English National show.

This year would turn out to be David and Lesley Sapsed’s last year on the show circuit after numerous years of supporting the agricultural shows. In a career that has seen them take many titles and also interbreed titles, they will be a big miss at future shows and we wish them all the best in the future.

Royal Norfolk

Without doubt the highlight of the year was hosting the Simmental English National at the Royal Norfolk show. The show was supported and attended brilliantly and with fantastic numbers of almost 60 Simmental’s entered, the competition in many classes was fierce. Club secretary Zara Curson said it was an absolute honour to be a part of the organising team for this event and with the help of others, it was never in doubt that the show would be successful. We would like to again thank our judge John Moore of the Omorga herd, and our generous sponsors, exhibitors and those who travelled from all over the U.K to help make the show a roaring success.

Our overall champion went to the Woods family for Popes Princess Immie. Sterling Celia’s Fifi jointly owned by Paul & Sharrie Cade, Jimmy McMillan and Simon Key won overall reserve champion. Popes also lifted the Junior Championship with Popes Princess Noor with Cade Nugget claiming Reserve Junior Champion.

Cade Nugget owned by Chris & Zara Curson was shown by up and coming young handler Erin Cade who’s family bred Nugget. Erin at only 14 years of age halter broke the February 2022 born bull so it only seemed right that she put him through his paces at the English National, and they didn’t disappoint with them not only taking Male Champion but also Continental Interbreed Champion too.

On the second day of the show it was the young handlers who took centre stage and with a good turnout it was great to see the breed is in good hands for the future. A massive congratulations to everyone who was involved but in particular to Finlay Soutter who went on to win the prestigious Overall Championship for young handlers and was presented with his prize by William, the Prince of Wales!!

With the national show heading back to the Norfolk show again this year we will be looking to make it bigger and better for 2024!!

The Aylsham show concluded the showing season in East Anglia and it was Theberton Joanne who took champion for Mr and Mrs L. J. Dowley, with reserve going to Fircovert Lizbet, from Paul & Linda Gunther.

The Great Yorkshire show didn’t disappoint for Paul & Linda Gunther, Andrew & Hayley Clarke and Sam Steggles making the trip north and all placing well within their classes. Andrew & Hayley also featured in the winning Junior Interbreed Group!

Young handler Bella Markham at the Suffolk Show

Cade Simmental’s made the trip this year to the Agri Expo in Carlisle in October and their 2022 born heifer Cade Fifi’s Nala, placed 3rd in her class and with 2023 born Cade Kathleen’s Prada, 4th in her class. The Cades very much held their own against some very stiff competition in large classes. Also daughter Erin came 3rd in her young handlers class with Bella Markham claiming 1st in her young handlers class.

Young handler Erin CadeContinental Champio
Young Handler Chloe Cade at The Suffolk Show

It has been fantastic to see so many breeders from our region supporting shows and sales across the country and returning home with such tremendous results. It shows that we are producing some great quality cattle in our area.

In September we had our annual herd competition take place with Phillida Hurn judging from the noted Twyford herd. With herds continuing to increase and therefore the time taken to organise and carry this out, our extended thanks and gratitude go to Phillida and her stockman Paul Monaghan, who accompanied her, for taking the time to judge. Phillida was very complimentary about the standard of cattle and had a very difficult job to decide the placing’s in the various categories.

East Anglian Club’s herd walk & herd competition results event was very well attended and hosted by the Brice family

At the start of the year our aim as a club was to do a herd visit as this hadn’t happened in a while so in November we organised a farm visit to our Rendham herd which was well attended. It was great to have a catch up whilst walking amongst the cattle and hearing what people thought. The visit also coincided with Phillida announcing the herd competition results and doing the presentations.

Herd Competition Judge Phillida Hurn presenting rosettes at the Herd competition results day

We rounded off the year with our annual Christmas dinner which was well attended by members, and we now look forward to what the New Year has in store for our club.

East Anglia herd competition results 2023 are below.

Best Bull Calf
1. Rendham Poacher
2. Hollybrook Paxton
3. Guiltcross Proudlock

Yearling Bull
1. Brandane Nutcracker
2. Rendham Neptune
3. Cade Nugget (Hollybrook)

Stock Bull
1. Blackford Galaxy (Key)
2. Saltire Jaguar (Hemingford)
3. Wolfstar Jumanji (Rendham)

Wolfstar Jumanji

Best heifer calf
1. Rendham Pixie
2. Therberton Purple
3. Hollybrook Pandora

Group of yearling Heifers
1. Hemingford heifers
2. Rendham heifers
3. Cade heifers

Best 2Yr Old Heifer
1. Therberton Mouse
2. Key Heifer
3. Guiltcross Mable

Group of 2Yr Old Heifer
1. Fircovert heifers
2. Rendham heifers
3. Cade heifers

Cow and calf
1. Rendham Lucky & Pixie
2. Therberton Forget me Not & her Bull calf
3. Thursford Tina & Hollybrook Pandora

Family Group
1. Iris Family (Therberton)
2. Thursford Tina Family (Hollybrook)
3. Honeysuckle Family (Fircovert)

Jimmy MacMillan & Marcus Searle with Brandane Kirsty & bull calf Brandane Nutcracker who won Supreme Champion at the Edenbridge & Oxted Show.

Overall Herd.
Rendham Herd

Judges Choice: Brandane Kirsty and her bull calf Brandane Nutcracker

CORNWALL CLUB REPORT

CORNWALL CLUB REPORT

2023 got off to a slow start for club events, however, members and commercial breeders continued to break records in the store and suckler calf rings throughout the spring. Market reports and the promotion of the Simmental’s green credentials led to a buoyant trade at the breeding sales.

February

Steph Hooper and David Reeves “Tregnether” kicked off their 2023 exhibitor campaign at a successful calf show at Sedgemoor Market on Friday 3rd February. Their two bull calves stood 1st & 2nd while their heifer Nellie headed her class and went on to become reserve Simmental champion. In the interbreed pairs with nine entries featuring native and continental breeds, they were awarded a very respectable third spot.

May

The Worcester Society sale returned an increased average of £705 on the year. Bulls topped out at 5,880gns and a high clearance rate for females together with the Wroxall reduction sale reflected the appetite for polled genetics.

Steph Hooper & David Reeves “Tregnether” and Alison Grose “Trewarnevas” competed at Devon County show for the first time. Steph and David returning with Male Champion and Reserve.

Tregnether Nemo

Bosahan hosted a female classification demonstration and talk by Kepak covering their history and live grading of fat cattle for students from Duchy College Rosewarne and club members.

June

At Royal Cornwall show, our biggest event and premier show, Vikki Wood, “Popes” was the judge for 2023 in very hot and windy conditions. Members from nine herds exhibited and turned out with twenty- three head.

Jake Gregory “Kurlycoat” was the worthy winner of the female and supreme championship with his January 2021 heifer Moneypenny while Piers Hawkey took the male championship and reserve supreme with the April 2022 Sowenna Nemo.

Championship line up

Grateful thanks to the members who took on the challenge of erecting the tent in a very tight squeeze and setting up. Also, to the Society for our new promotional display which made an impression with the judges awarding a third for the best breed stand. Thanks to Charlie and Jenny Harris for their continued support by organising refreshments with Focus Farm Vets. The donations of food by the club committee were very much appreciated. Although providing hospitality involves a lot of demanding effort, our position in the avenue between the cattle and sheep ensures a high profile for British Simmentals at our well attended county show.

July signals the start of the one day shows with Praze and Liskeard on the first Saturday. The Bucklands took the championship in the west with their yearling heifer Wellatree Novelty Bun over seven other breeds. While in the east Megan Wellington and Emma Jane Bate achieved double interbreed successes with their Pennytinney pair and team of three heifers.

Wellatree Novelty Bun with Jim Buckland

A week later Camborne, designated our ‘Club’ show, followed with James Arnold, “Vale Royal”, casting his eye over the exhibitors on a wet and windy morning. Steve and Gill Gummow emerged as Simmental Champion with their September 21 bull Killiworgie Malteser with Steph Hooper’s Tregnether Neptune in reserve.

Interbreed success followed in the uncalved pairs of heifers for Tregnether Nellie and Bosahan Natasha Karina Star with Killiworgie Malteser standing Reserve Champion beef. The hospitality trailer organised by the Buckland family for cattle exhibitors to meet the judge informally was a great success and provided some welcome relief from the weather as well as sustenance.

Killiworgie Malteser

Stithians saw Aled Davies Hirwaun at the head of proceedings and selecting the Olds Family’s Bosahan Minnie Miss Natalie, an October 21 in-calf heifer, as his Simmental Champion with Megan Wellington and Bosahan Nova Georgia Cruz standing in the reserve spot. These two heifers were joined by Pennytinney Magic Star for the interbreed group of three (dairy and beef) to take the Archie Opie trophy. This was the fourth consecutive year that it had been won by Simmentals. In the interbreed beef championship Miss Natalie stood reserve to the Aberdeen Angus heifer. A narrow result requiring an independent judge to make the final decision.

Launceston witnessed a battle across the Cornwall and Devon borders with Sowenna and Pennytinney taking on the Priorton herd. Judged by Patrick Greed (Killerton Limousins) John & Sue May’s bull Loxton Norbert took the championship with Sowenna Miracle, Piers January 22 heifer standing in reserve. Pennytinney completed a great record of interbreed awards in 2023 by standing in the reserve spot for best pair.

Unfortunately, the 2023 Camelford show was cancelled as the silage had not been cut due to the wet weather. Therefore, the most points gained from the five Cornish one-day shows was awarded to Megan Wellington, “Pennytinney” ably assisted by Emma Jane Bate winning the new Rosewin Shield kindly given by Adele Jewell.

Thanks to all club members and handlers for keeping the Simmental breed in the headlines both in Cornwall and Devon. The Tregnether and Pennytinney herds deserve recognition for their results at Honiton and Okehampton truly great effort, together with Ant Hart’s interbreed success at Dunster show with Treverbyn Norman P.

Treverbyn Norman P Beef Interbreed Champion Dunster Show

August Commercial Open Day

Ian, Sandra, Tom, and Sam Backway hosted our annual commercial open day where over sixty members and commercial breeders were welcomed at St Eval Church Hall. Their fifty suckler cows include ten pedigree Longhorns. Two pedigree Simmental bulls, Killiworgie Iceman (Kilbride Farm Comber) and Crowgey Las Vegas (Corrick Harrison) run with the commercials while their Longhorn bull Blackbrook F1 is used on the pedigree cows and all the heifers. Currently eighty, home-bred and purchased suckled calves, will be sold as stores through Truro and Hallworthy livestock markets at fifteen to eighteen months. One hundred and fifty Texel ewes complete their livestock numbers. On the farm tour we admired a field of impressive forward stores. The following week they topped both Truro and Hallworthy livestock markets highlighting the Simmental breed  We returned to a memorable, traditional Cornish “cakey tea”.  The Cornwall Simmental Club are very fortunate to have such generous and welcoming associate members.

The afternoon concluded with a presentation by Martyn Tripp on Mighty-Min organically stabilised essential trace mineral supplements. Sold successfully throughout the whole of Australia for more than twenty years the company is expanding its manufacturing and marketing operations into the UK. Working with Cornish members of the family Cornish Liquid Minerals was launched two years ago and covers the southwest of England. Using the unique Floater Doser mineral supplements are dispensed into animals drinking water troughs.

SEPTEMBER CORNWALL CLUB HERD COMPETITION

The Cornwall Club welcomed Nick and Nadia Gwynne on their second trip to the county. Their prior visit being as exhibitors was at the first Simmental English National Show held at Royal Cornwall in 2009.

Nick and Nadia savoured their week in Cornwall seeing excellent cattle and enjoying wonderful hospitality.  Visiting twelve pedigree and five commercial herds. Here are their comments following their visits where they travelled from Lands’ End to Tintagel.

“Beginning at Bosahan we saw a consistent stamp of cattle with youngstock indicating that the standards will be maintained and suitable for both pedigree and commercial breeders.              

Moving on to Tregowris we met a very enthusiastic young couple, George, and Lucy. An efficiently run herd with regular weight recording and followers improving their cattle. (Nick says not a bad pool player either).

The first day ended with Trewarnevas, a herd in its infancy. Alison shared plans to increase numbers to one hundred and understands it will take time to obtain uniformity. Attending shows has helped to identify areas to improve and she accepts there is a huge shift in presentation after a successful track record with dairy animals.                                 

Day 2 we headed west starting with the Wellatree and Angwelha cattle. Two great herds of cows with the first crop from Newbiemains Lorenzo suggesting he is clicking with the Buckland’s bloodlines.

Finishing the day with Barrie Wynter’s Bolankin pedigree cattle and his uncle Edward White’s commercial herd. The family have experienced a difficult year where there have been challenges to balance health needs, additional pressures from Natural England demands across the whole of West Penwith and getting the job done. Barrie is a conscientious club chairman and council member with an extensive knowledge of the Simmental breed. He remains positive for a better 2024.                                        

We ended our day with a fish and chip supper with a vista of St Michaels Mount bliss!!

Day 3 and the Cornish mizzle descended as we travelled to Killiworgie. Despite the weather conditions we saw impressive EX classified cows. Steve and Gill’s investments in Islavale and Popes bulls plus ET and AI choices have resulted in youngstock with potential others should monitor.                                           

We then moved on to the Backways commercial herd based at Trerair farm. It was interesting to hear their journey from beef x dairy calves to the pure-bred Simmental females, they now run. Investing in affordable pedigree Simmental bulls has suited their outdoor spring calving pattern and the more recent influence of Longhorn pedigree cattle has enhanced their hybrid vigour.                                

We concluded the day at Treverbyn and met Ant Hart. A small herd with excellent cows and youngstock and they felt that stock bulls have produced some lovely working daughters to date. Keep up the good work.                                  

Day 4 and a trip to North of Cornwall started with Megan Wellington and Emma Jane Bate at St Kew. We loved their enthusiasm for Simmentals and self-awareness for the direction they want to take the Pennytinney herd. A great team.

After a stop off at Tintagel and a frustrating car parking episode we met new member Paul Ovens (Worthyvale) starting out on his pedigree journey with a few females and a recently acquired Killiworgie bred stock bull together with commercial cattle. An entertaining encounter concluded with returning escaped cattle to their fields.                           

The day finished with a visit to Tregnether pedigree and commercial herd. We were delighted to meet another forward -thinking young couple, Steph, and David. They are making their mark in the show ring both in Cornwall and Devon, after having already established themselves as successful commercial suckled calf breeders. We felt their next challenge is investing in a stock bull to enhance the pedigree side of their business.

On the final day of visits, we viewed the Hawkhill herd of Don Cowell. A mainly pedigree herd with great potential and bloodlines. Numbers have been reduced due to the loss of local grazing. Some lovely cross bred heifers suggests that a commercial focus would be an appropriate direction to take in the future.

Thank you to Steve and Gill Gummow for a hosting an enjoyable and sociable presentation evening where we could meet up with club members once more before returning to Scotland.”

CORNWALL SIMMENTAL CLUB HERD COMPETITION 2023 – JUDGES NICK AND NADIA GWYNNE CHESTERMANN HERD
PlaceName of AnimalOwner/HerdSireDam
 BULL CALF BORN 2023   
1stBOSAHAN PARAMOURJOHN, BRIDGET & DANIEL OLDSKINCLAVEN INFUSION 17(P)BOSAHAN INGRID VENUS
2ndPENNYTINNEY POLDARKMEGAN WELLINGTONSOWENNA ILLUMINATE 17CRACKLEY CADETTE 173D
3rdTREGNETHER PROPER JOBSTEPHANIE HOOPERTREGNETHER JACKPOT 18TREVERBYN INCA
 JUNIOR BULL1ST JANUARY – 30TH JUNE 2022  
1stBOLANKIN NAMPARABARRIE WYNTERKILLIWORGIE KNIGHTRIDER 19BOLANKIN CLARINDA’S ICANDY
2ndHAWKHILL NAPOLEONDON COWELLSWAY JJ 18 (P)LISKERRET TILLY 7TH
3rdTREGOWRIS NEVILLEGEORGE & LUCY HOSKENDENIZES HAMISH 16BOSAHAN KARINA FLOWER
 JUNIOR BULL1ST JULY – 31ST DECEMBER 2022  
1stKILLIWORGIE NEWLYNSTEVE & GILL GUMMOWISLAVALE JERICO 18KILLIWORGIE DULCIES JOWENNA
2ndBOSAHAN NANKERVIS (P)JOHN, BRIDGET & DANIEL OLDSKINCLAVEN INFUSION 17(P)BOSAHAN ISABELLA BEA
3rdTREWARNEVAS NAVIGATORJONATHAN & ALISON GROSE AND SONSKILLIWORGIE KAYLUP 19BOSAHAN KEIRA EMMA STAR
 STOCK BULLTO HAVE REGISTERED PROGENY  
1stSKYLARK GERONIMO 15ANT HART/TREVERBYNTILBROOK DEBONAIR 12SKYLARK DIANA 2ND
2ndKINCLAVEN INFUSION 17(P)JOHN, BRIDGET & DANIEL OLDS/BOSAHANLINDE GENERAL (P)STRATHISLA BUBBLE’S GERALDINE
3rdNEWBIEMAINS LORENZO 20JIM & JEAN BUCKLAND/WELLATREEMOORGLEN HILLBILLY IMPNEWBIEMAINS INGOT GOLD
 HEIFER CALF BORN 2023   
1stBOSAHAN PALOMA ESTELLE (P)JOHN, BRIDGET & DANIEL OLDSKINCLAVEN INFUSION 17(P)BOSAHAN ESTELLE ALESHA
2ndWELLATREE PANDORAJIM & JEAN BUCKLANDNEWBIEMAINS LORENZO 20WELLATREE LIMOGES
3rdANGWELHA FANTASTIC PIPPASTEVE & AMIEE BUCKLANDNEWBIEMAINS LORENZO 20ANGWELHA FANTASTIC LOTTI
 JUNIOR HEIFER1ST JANUARY – 30TH JUNE 2022  
1stANGWELHA NESSASTEVE & AMIEE BUCKLANDCARBERY JAGUARANGWELHA HARRIET
2ndBOSAHAN INGRID VENUS PJOHN, BRIDGET & DANIEL OLDSKINCLAVEN INFUSION 17(P)BOSAHAN INGRID VENUS
3rdKILLIWORGIE GABBYS NESSASTEVE & GILL GUMMOWISLAVALE JERICO 18KILLWORGIE GABBY
 JUNIOR HEIFER1ST JULY – 31ST DECEMBER 2022  
1stTREVERBYN NEISHAANT HARTSKYLARK GERONIMO 15TREVERBYN IONA
2ndBOSAHAN NINA PEARL VELIA (P)JOHN, BRIDGET & DANIEL OLDSKINCLAVEN INFUSION 17(P)BOSAHAN KELLIE PEARL VELIA
3rdKILLIWORGIE IZZIES NELLYSTEVE & GILL GUMMOWSHACON HANNIBAL 16KILLIWORGIE CHRISSIES IZZIE
 IN-CALF HEIFERDUE TO CALVE BEFORE THE AGE OF 3  
1stBOSAHAN MINNIE MISS NATALIEJOHN, BRIDGET & DANIEL OLDSKINCLAVEN INFUSION 17(P)BOSAHAN IMPISH MISS NATALIE
2ndTREGOWRIS NARCISSIGEORGE & LUCY HOSKENSACOMBE KESTREL 19MIXBURY HALL LINDSAY
3rdTREVERBYN MADDIEANT HARTSKYLARK GERONIMO 15TREVERBYN GERALDINE
  COW   
1stKILLIWORGIE HARISSAGEORGE & LUCY HOSKEN/TREGOWRISSKERRINGTON DESPERADO 12KILLIWORGIE NATALIES CLARISSA
2ndBOSAHAN FLIRTY TRESORJOHN, BRIDGET & DANIEL OLDSSKERRINGTON ARMADA 09BOSAHAN TRESOR
3rdKILLIWORGIE CHRISSIES IZZIESTEVE & GILL GUMMOWSKERRINGTON DESPERADO 12KILLIWORGIE NATASHA’S CHRISSIE
 HOME-BRED FEMALEOF JUDGE’S CHOICE ANY AGE  
1stBOSAHAN PALOMA ESTELLE (P)JOHN, BRIDGET & DANIEL OLDSKINCLAVEN INFUSION 17(P)BOSAHAN ESTELLE ALESHA
2ndWELLATREE PANDORAJIM & JEAN BUCKLANDNEWBIEMAINS LORENZO 20WELLATREE LIMOGES
3rdANGWELHA FANTASTIC PIPPASTEVE & AMIEE BUCKLANDNEWBIEMAINS LORENZO 20ANGWELHA FANTASTIC LOTTI
 YOUNG STOCK   
1stTREVERBYNANT HART  
2ndBOSAHANJOHN, BRIDGET & DANIEL OLDS  
3rdKILLIWORGIESTEVE & GILL GUMMOW  
 BEST COMMERCIAL IN PEDIGREE HERDSIRE OR DAM PEDIGREE SIMMENTAL  
1stFUDGE SIM X BLONDETREGNETHER  
2ndHOPE   CHAROLAIS X SIMHAWKHILL  
3rdJUBILEE SIM X BBTREWARNEVAS  
 COMMERCIAL SECTION   
 BEST ANIMALSIRE OR DAM TO BE PEDIGREE OR PURE BRED  
1stRED & WHITE COWIAN, SANDRA & SAM BACKWAY  
2ndAPRIL CALFSTEPH HOOPER & DAVID REEVES  
3rdBLUE COWEDWARD WHITE  
 BEST PROGENY GROUP (MIN 3 ANIMALS)SIRE TO BE PEDIGREE OR PURE BRED  
1stTRERAIR FARMIAN, SANDRA & SAM BACKWAY  
2ndTREGNETHERSTEPH HOOPER & DAVID REEVES  
3rdBOLANKIN WHITEEDWARD WHITE  
 BEST SMALL PEDIGREE HERDBEST LARGE PEDIGREE HERDBEST COMMERCIAL HERDBEST HERD OVERALL
WINNERTREVERBYNBOSAHANTREGNETHERBOSAHAN
RESERVEPENNYTINNEYKILLIWORGIETRERAIR FARMKILLIWORGIE
 YOUNG MEMBERS AWARDSTEPH HOOPER & DAVID REEVES  

September

After a Covid inflicted break and airline chaos the Cornwall Club managed to organise a trip to Northern Ireland with the much-appreciated assistance of David Hazelton (Ranfurly). It was a pleasure to take new members with us and to reunite with much missed friends. A party of twenty-five we were treated and spoilt with excellent hospitality and outstanding cattle. Challenged by heat exhaustion and the risk of being “Simmied” out we have all returned with renewed energy and focus to keep improving.

Club trip to Northern Ireland including visiting Nigel Glasgow’s Bridgewater Farm

Our President Penny Lally has penned a traditional ditty to capture the Northern Ireland experience.
A ‘motley crew’ from Cornwall
Set off ‘abroad’ once more.
To visit ‘Simmental’ breeders
Some, we had seen before.
we all met up at Newquay.
to fly out to Belfast
all hoping that for our visit.
the ‘Indian Summer’ would last.
I think we ‘Identified’ as farmers.
To others it was clear
As most of us were ‘lame’.
Not too many ‘sounds’, I fear!
We landed, then on to the bus.
to Joe Wilson’s Ballinalare & Bannhill
where we saw first ‘Nikita’
glorious sight any sore eyes to fill.
and a ‘Stirling bull’ for February
looking extremely smart
where, hoping, for a ‘pretty large sum’
a Simmental breeder will part
Apart from the super cattle
We saw a rather smart Racehorse.
Bought for ‘a box of chocs & a bottle of gin’!
Only in Ireland, of course!!
After wonderful hospitality
From the family Wilson and friends
We left for the Hotel at Dungannon
Where here ‘day one’ ends
Day 2 started first at Ranfurly.
The Hazelton’s super cows to see.
We were boiling in baking hot sunshine.
And most grateful for a nice cup of tea
Then, on to see Nigel Glasgow
We were ‘sweating like pigs’ on the bus!
Arriving, we made for the nearest hose pipe.
For cold water, melting fast most of us.
Nigel showed us his very nice cattle.
Then back to his ’Palace’ for lunch
We were treated to a wonderful feast.
Truly spoilt were this Cornish bunch.
Then off in the sweltering sunshine
Sticky and sweating all the way.
To John Moore, who is ‘chaos on two legs!
But a joy to be with any day.
We saw good cattle nearby to the farm.
Looking grand in the afternoon sun
Then John took off with a bunch in a pickup
Some stayed behind, in the heat feeling ‘done’.
Later, of course, Omorga hospitality
With the famous ‘poteen’ offered us
So followed much chatter and laughter.
Before, giggling, we got back on the bus.
We were treated at Dungannon Rugby Club
Kindly hosted by David and John
To a delicious sit-down hot dinner
Thoroughly enjoyed by everyone
Day 3, we set off for the Robsons, Kilbride
With plenty of very smart cattle to see
And bulls, all ready for Stirling
Many polled, seems the way now to be.
We were kindly given some lunch.
Then off again with skies cloudy and grey
When arriving at our next destination
We got ‘soaked ‘by the rain you could say.
Richard Rogers showed us his great cattle.
With magnificent views all around
We looked like a lot of drowned rats.
As we squelched over rather wet ground
The rain went away, we were thankful.
And ‘steamed’ as we dried as we walked.
We enjoyed seeing the Hiltonstown herd.
As exchanging opinions, we talked.
We were treated to a wonderful meal.
At a beautiful old local pub
With a fabulous atmosphere and music
Thank you, Richard, for the delicious grub.
Our friendly bus driver Melvin
Let us stay later than planned.
Though lived in fear that his wife
As being late, he’d be from his house ‘banned’!!
So that was the end of our ‘Sortie’.
As always, so very much fun
Our eyes opened by wonderful cattle.
And lovely people, our hosts, everyone
Thanks so much Northern Ireland once more.
For another trip Cornish folk have done
We’ll remember the heat and the cattle.
And your friendship, as warm as the sun

October

The results of the South-west herd competition were announced during a herd visit to Bosahan the overall winners. Congratulations to Cornwall Club members featured in the awards and breeders out of the county that have bought cattle from Cornwall highlighting the successful bloodlines available in the county.

This month also featured the local suckler calf sales. There has been a shortage of animals available. Canny returning buyers from outside the Southwest dealing direct off farm has driven trade despite the wet late summer/autumn weather. Determined buyers recognising the early finishing attributes of Simmental sired cattle have led to high prices. Well done to Jim and Jean Buckland topping the market at the Hallworthy Stockyard Southwestern Suckler Calf Association sale with nine-month-old steers at £1250. The following day Truro saw trade to £935 for a 7months steer from Andrew Kemp, Greenhills and £880 for the top heifer from Kevin Thomas, Crowgey.

The last Cornish showcase of the season was the Cornwall Pedigree Beef Calf Show. Over seventy calves came forward for the 2023 event. The British Simmentals section reigned supreme for the second consecutive year. Bosahan Palomo Estelle P a January 2023 heifer filled the top spot over the native champion. Also lifting overall supreme honours were Steph Hooper and David Reeves in the first staging of the interbreed pairs.

Bosahan Paloma Estelle P – Supreme Champion

November

Attention moves to Westpoint, Exeter for the Agrifest Southwest.

Tregnether and Trewardrevas attended for the first time competing successfully in the British Simmental pedigree classes for calves born in 2023.

Thursday 9th November: a well-attended AGM by club members, many of whom, met Iain Kerr the British Simmental Society General Manager for the first time. The chairman welcomed everyone and called for a minute’s silence for John Hart, “Treverbyn” who died on October 28th before starting the meeting. During the annual report Megan Wellington and Emma Jane Bate “Pennytinney” were awarded the new Rosewin Shield for the most points at one day shows kindly given by Adele Jewell. Inter-breeds trophies were presented to the Wellatree, Pennytinney, Killiworgie, Tregnether and Bosahan herds.

Officers elected were:

Charlie Harris – President, Steve Gummow President- Elect

Barrie Wynter – Chairman, Steve Buckland Vice-Chairman

Gill Gummow – Treasurer, Bridget Olds Secretary

For the next two years they will be assisted by the following committee members: Alison Grose, Adele Jewell, Steph Hooper, Megan Wellington/Emma Jane Bate, Jim Buckland, Piers Hawkey and John Olds.

The Chairman – Barrie Wynter thanked retiring committee members Viv Hall (27 years) and Car Hawkey (10 years) for their loyalty and help. Retiring President Penny Lally was presented with flowers and acknowledged for her sound advice to club officers and enthusiastic assistance. Penny together with fellow Life Member Roger Pascoe will continue to support the Cornwall Club.

The evening concluded with an informative and entertaining talk given by Iain on his long association with the Simmental breed together with the Society’s achievements and targets for the future. “Loading the dishwasher” has acquired a new context for us all!!

Congratulations to the herds filling the top spots both with pedigree and commercial cattle in 2023. However, the club’s strength stems from members willing to work hard to promote the Simmental breed we all enjoy. Keep up the good work and drive for improvement. Promotion and finding the time to be involved isn’t easy but we are a great social club with pro-active and innovative ideas.

The Cornwall Club is very lucky to have ambitious and enthusiastic young breeders and new herds ready to challenge more established names. It is difficult to be objective in recognising the strengths and weaknesses in your own cattle. Competition, performance-recording, classification, and visits to other herds can help to establish benchmarks and set targets.

Stephanie Hooper and David Reeves conclude the year with Tregnether Polly lifting the Young Pedigree Beef Champion at the Cornish Winter Fair.

ADDED VALUE SIMMENTALS TOPPING COMMERCIAL SALES AROUND THE UK!

ADDED VALUE SIMMENTALS TOPPING COMMERCIAL SALES AROUND THE UK!

EXETER; HALLWORTHY; CARLISLE; DUNGANNON; MONMOUTHSHIRE; DINGWALL; BENTHAM; LANARK; MARKET DRAYTON; SEDGEMOOR; BAKEWELL; WHITLAND; THAINSTONE; HEXHAM; GISBURN; STIRLING; THIRSK; HALLWORTHY; FROME; LONGTOWN; SELBY; PENRITH; CARMARTHEN; BALLYMENA; TRURO; & MELTON MOWBRAY

The added value of Simmental genetics continues to gain commercial recognition for efficiency and profit, allied to strong ‘green’ credentials. AHDB’s confirmation of the breed’s age at slaughter abilities is coupled with Simmental sired progeny being fast growing with terrific weight for age, hitting industry specs and producing high quality carcases with a high retail beef yield. Maternal mainstays of the suckler herd, Simmentals are high quality suckler cows; full of milk; fertile; easy calving; can calve at two years old; and who can wean calves at 50% of their bodyweight at 200 days. These are the natural attributes of the modern British Simmental striking a chord with commercial beef producers. With the Christmas festivities just around the corner, December was a foreshortened month of commercial sales but there were still plenty of Simmental sale toppers to report on:

A small pre-Christmas offering of store cattle and stirks at Exeter on 22nd December saw a continuation of the recent uplift in prices when store steers rose to a top of £1680 given for a Simmental from South Battisborough Farm of Plymouth.

SIMMS TOP STEERS & HEIFERS AT HALLWORTHY
A small but quality run of cattle at Hallworthy on 21st December sold to a tremendous trade. Top spot going to R T Crabb of Boscastle with a run of Simmental x Cattle, their best a pair of 19-month-steers to £1560, next a single Steer to £1485 and a black shapey 18 month Simmental to £1450. Top heifers again from the Crabb Family with a pair of fleshy Simmental Heifers to £1335 and another at £1330.

On Wednesday 20th December at Carlisle, Harrison & Hetherington held their weekly sale of bulls and weaned cattle seeing trade rise to similar levels of the Spring. Heifers topped at £1310 for Simmentals from Messrs Goldsbrough, Oakrigg Farm, Moffat.

At Dungannon Farmers Mart on 20th December, Suckled Cows and Calves sold to £1140 for a Sim Cow with a SHB Bull Calf at foot presented by D McCullough.

In a sale of baby rearing calves at Monmouthshire on 20th December, one month old Simm X bull calves sold to £345 for MA & MJ Williams, Rowlestone.

At Dingwall on 19th December, Dingwall & Highland Marts Ltd held a small sale of prime cattle. Prime Heifers averaged 275.3p per kg and sold to 284p per kg for a 570kg Simmental cross from Easter Sheep Park, Balblair.

At Bentham’s small sale of cast cows on 19th December, beef bred cows topped at 186p, £1469 for a Simmental X from Messrs Fare of Preston. On the previous day at a sale of rearing calves Simmentals topped the heifers at £300 from Cote Farm Partnership, Nether Kellet, with the same vendor selling a sweet young Simmental bull to £400.

On Monday 18th December 2023 at Lanark, Lawrie and Symington Ltd held their final sale of calves and stirks of 2023 with 68 calves and stirks forward. The sale was topped by Simmental Bullocks from Messrs M Hunter & Sons, Dawyck Mill Farm, Peebles at £950.

Market Drayton’s sale of 511 rearing calves on 18th December saw continental heifers being the trade of the day. Top call was £320 for a Simmental from W.J Holdcroft, Sandbach.

In a sale of UTM heifers at Sedgemoor on 18th December, heifers sold to £1746.36 for a pure bred Simmental (648kg) from R Bigwood, Burnham on Sea.

In a sale of barren, OTM, and feeding cows on 18th December at Bakewell, the top grossing cows were Simms at £1702.74, and £1544.48 from Mosley & Co, Chelmorten.

In a sale of barren cows at Whitland Mart on 16th December, the top price was £1,550/263p per kilo for a 590 kilos Tested Simmental cow from Rees, Hundleton.

At Thainstone on 15th December, Aberdeen & Northern Marts held a sale of store cattle forward from Orkney Consignors. Bullocks Sold to £1,800 gross for a pair of 618kg Aberdeen Angus from A D Miller, to 310.6p per kg for a pair of 454kg Simmentals from Hilton Farm, Shapinsay.

Also on 15th December at Thainstone, Aberdeen and Northern Marts sold 254 store cattle, young bulls and young and weaned calves. Bullocks (86) averaged 277.4p and sold to 310.6p per kg for a pair of 454kg Simmental Cross from Hilton, Shapinsay. At a small sale of adult breeding cattle in calf heifers sold to £2500 for a Simmental Cross Heifer from Hill of Fiddes, Udny. In Calf Cows sold to £2650 for a Simmental from the same vendor.

SIMMENTALS TOP STEERS & HEIFERS, & SUCKLED CALVES AT EXETER
A good show of stirks and suckled calves met another strong trade at Exeter on 15th December. Richard Beckley of Black Dog topped at £805 for Simmental x steers (8m), with heifers topping out at £760 for Simmental crosses (9m), from the same vendor. In the stirks and suckled calves sale, MA Stephens up from Plymouth presented Simmental x suckled calves (10m) which topped out at £915.

At Hexham & Northern Marts final store sale of the year on 15th December, Sandy & Andrew Ord, Newton Greens brought forward their annual consignment of 50 Angus and Simmental cross steers at 15-18 months and these well-presented bullocks topped at £1780 (for the Simms) to average a very worthy £1504 throughout. Other Simmental x steers on the day topped at £1850 Beacon Rigg, £1820 (x2),
At a sale of cast cows, bulls, and prime cattle from Orkney vendors at Thainstone on 14th December, bulls sold to £1,840 gross for a 1140kg Simmental from K & K Morgan, Swanny Farm, Swannay.

Gisburns sale of Prime Cattle on 14th December saw a prime Simmental bull from E&M Fairhurst at 872kgs made £2464 to feature in the leading prices.

At Caledonian Marts, Stirling sale of prime cattle, young bulls and OTMs on 14th December, Beef OTMs sold to 229 ppkg for a Simmental from T Mitchell, East Gormyre, West Lothian.
United Auctions, Stirling on 13th December sold 590 store cattle & young bulls. Bullocks (287) averaged 270.60p to 307.20p per kg for a 472kg SIMX from South Falfield.

Thirsk’s prize show & sale of breeding cattle on 14th December saw a total entry of 117 head with some exceptionally good cattle on offer met very good demand throughout. Top price of the day at £2850 was a Simmental X, In calf heifer from Amblers lodge, Shipton (this consignment of 10 averaged £2373).

At Hallworthy on 14th December, a dispersal of Hereford Cows with Simmental x Calves at foot from S Chudleigh of Launceston saw his best outfit to £1710 for a cow with 6 month calf at foot and second outfit to £1700, younger cows and heifer calves to £1400 twice.

On 13th December at a small sale of prime cattle at Frome, the top gross price for UTM steers was £1585 for a Simmental from Waddon Farms Ltd, Westcombe.

In a sale of rearing calves at Monmouthshire on 13th December, the bull calves were topped by a Simm at £350 from CWC Waters.

C&D Auction Marts Ltd held their December sale of Breeding and Store Cattle on 12th December at Longtown. A seasonal offering of stores were forward with a large proportion being young, hill bred cattle. A lovely run of very well bred Simmental in calf heifers consigned by WA & CM Vaughan, High Dovecote, Walton graced the cattle sale ring at Longtown. After some frantic bidding this super run of heifers topped the sale at £1,700 (x5), going on to average a very pleasing £1,672.

SIMMENTAL AT £2680 LEADS PRIME BULLS AT CARLISLE
At Borderway Mart’s Primestock Sale, Carlisle on 11th December, prime bulls saw thirteen sell over £2000 and eight over £2300 to a day’s overall top of £2680.58 for a 1041kg Simmental for first time vendors at Borderways weekly Primestock sale, Messrs McCulloch, Over Hill House, Midlothian. Other Simmentals sold to £2209.06 for 868kg from Messrs Dyet, East Merkland, Lanarkshire. In the sale of prime cattle, heifers sold to a top of £2136.59 for a 759kg Simmental cross from Messrs Morton, Church Farm Penrith.
C & D Auction Marts Ltd Dumfries held their annual Christmas Show and Sale of Rearing Calves & Stirks on 11th December which sold to a large and active ringside of buyers. The Sale was topped by an excellent Simmental X bull calf from Mr D Shuttleworth Dumfries at £600.

Irving Pearson – Simmentals

In a sale of 616 rearing calves at Market Drayton on 11th December, Simms topped both the bulls and the heifers. Leading the bulls at £390 was J Gould & Son, with the heifers being led at £330 by Simms from Robert Butterworth.

On 9th December at Selby Livestock Auction Market and a sale of 570 store cattle, a Simm heifer from R Darlison made £1300 to feature in the top prices.

SIMMENTALS TOP STEERS & HEIFERS AT EXETER
At Exeter’s store sale on 8th December, steers topped at £1630 for a pen of three striking Simmental bred bullocks (26m) for Michael Tooze up from Brixham, whilst DH and H Brain of Calverleigh saw younger (18m) Simmental steers rise to £1305. The heifer section saw a top of £1215 when John and Helen Keep sold their three shapely Simmentals (19m) for £1215.

On 8th December, Penrith & District Farmers’ Mart LLP held their fortnightly sale of rearing calves and stirks (96). Heifers topped at £800 for an 8-month-old Simmental from Mr J Findlay, Moorside Farm.

At C&D Auction Marts Limited Christmas Show & Sale of cast cows, bulls, & OTMs at Longtown on 7th December, the sale topped at £1,755 and £1,719 for Simmentals from Dempster Barguillean Partnership, Robmar, Argyll which also topped the price per kilo of 273p.

At Thirsk on 7th December and a sale of prime young bulls, the best grossing was £1911.39 for a Simmental x from H & L Dale & Sons, Loftus, purchased by Hartshead Meats Ltd, Ashton under Lyne.

On 7th December at Hallworthy’s sale of store cattle, J Vokes of Lockengate topped this section with a real stunner of a Simmental x Heifer to £1400 and a slightly smaller Heifer also a Simmental x to £1215. In a sale of suckled calves, A Varcoe of Bodmin took first prize Steers, with a trio of well-shaped and fleshed Simmental x steers which went on to make £1075, with a second bunch at £1065.

In a sale of calves at Carmarthen on 6th December, top price was £385 for a 1-month-old Simm bull from Davies, Cottage Farm

At Dungannon Farmers Mart on 6th December, heifer prices peaked at £1780 for a 690kg Sim (258.00) presented by F McVeigh. Suckled Cows and Calves topped at £2040 for a Sim Cow with a Lim Hfr Calf at foot presented by E Hagan.

At Truro’s sale of store cattle, steers up to one and a half year old were topped by Simmentals from Messrs E G Benney of Mawnan Smith, Falmouth, at £1345.

On 6th December at Stirling, United Auctions sold 523 store cattle & young bulls. Also 306 out of spec cattle, cast cows and bulls. Out of Spec averaged 211.29p to 251.50p per kg for a SIMX from Forestmill, and to £1810 for SIMX from Forestmill.
In a sale of prime cattle at Frome on 6th December, ‘U’ grade steers topped at 266p/kg & £1760 for a Simmental from JC Stainer, Semington.

In a sale of calves at Whitland on 5th December, heifers were topped at £400 by Simmentals from Green, Lampeter Velfrey. Simmental bulls on the day sold to £385 from Jones, Llangunnor.

On the 5th December Lawrie and Symington sold 248 Store and Breeding Cattle at their final sale of 2023 at Lanark. Bullocks sold to a top of 314.6p/kg for a pen of 8 Simmentals at 391kg from Messrs J & A Hutchinson, Roberton Mains Farm, Dolphinton.

At Ballymena on 5th December, a super trade for 200 store cattle was topped at £1650 by a 580kg Simm from J McHenry, Ballinderry.

On 5th December at Melton Mowbray, and a sale of prime cows, stock bulls & OTM cattle, the top gross was for heavy Simmental cows from NA Sercombe to £1525.82.

At the Primestock Sale at Borderway Mart, Carlisle on 4th December, twenty four bulls sold to £2000 and over and including Simmentals to £2285, and £2260 from Messrs Goldie, Newbie Mains, Annan.

In a sale at Whitland on 1st December, tested barren cows saw sold to £1,740 for a 770 kilo Simmental from Davies, Rhydiau, Crymych. In a sale of fat cattle, heifers were topped at £1540m 261 ppkg for a Simm heifer also from Davies, Crymych. In the sale of 309 store cattle, bulls sold to £1,320 for a 15 month Simmental from Dickerson, Birchgrove.

In a sale of 457 store cattle and suckled calves at Exeter on December 1st, store steers topped at a creditable £1620 given for a grand trio of Simmental bred bullocks (26m) from Michael Tooze of Brixham whilst the better of a super run of yearling Simmental steers from John Hull of Tiverton sold readily and to £1190.

At Thainstone on 1st December, Aberdeen and Northern Marts sold 404 store cattle, young bulls and young and weaned calves. Bullocks (176) averaged 300.8p and sold to £1755 gross for a pen of three 638kg Simmental Cross from Ardivot Farm, Lossiemouth. Heifers up to 250kg topped by The Hillocks (SimX) £610, with Nether Ardwell (SimX) at £520.