by Iain | May 11, 2026 | 2026, 2026 North West News, 2026 News, 2026 Carlisle Sales, Uncategorised
Six bulls make 10,000gns and more
89% clearance rate
24 out of 27 bulls sell to average £7585
Islavale Rudolph 24 from Mr WS Stronach, Berryleys, Grange, Keith made 16,000gns to lead a strong sale of Simmental bulls at Harrison & Hetherington’s Borderway Mart, Carlisle, on Saturday 9th May.December 2024 born, Rudolph is by the prolific Coose Lincoln EX 95, and is out of the Corskie Highlander daughter Islavale Lexi. With good calving and maternal (milk) figures, and a pedigree packed with EX classified animals, this bull was snapped up by noted commercial producer Jim Walker, Drumbuie, Sanquhar, Dumfriesshire.
Speaking after the sale Mr Walker said: “Islavale Rudolph was purchased to add to an already strong lineup of bulls within our commercial herd. We felt his pedigree and figures matched in well with what we’re looking for to provide us with both milky replacement females and males that will grow out and produce strings of store bullocks to sell. We’re really looking forward to see what this bull will do for us.”
Islavale Rudolph 16,000gns
For the Stronachs the top price was secured in what was the first time they have sold bulls at Carlisle. This sale followed hot on the heels of Stirling earlier in the week, and where they sold four bulls to average £13,650, and with the top priced bull there at 15,000gns also being a Coose Lincoln EX 95 son.
The Carlisle Sale saw six bulls sell at 10,000gns and more, and with 24 out of the 27 bulls selling to average a terrific £7585, with an 89% clearance. The 24 bulls also represented the most Simmental bulls sold to date at this growing breed fixture, and followed on from the previous evening where 20 Simmental heifers averaged 8600gns at the Popes Princesses Production Sale held for Jimmy & Vikki Wood, Dutton, Preston, Lancashire.
Speaking after the sale, the British Simmental Cattle Society’s General Manager Iain Kerr said: “It’s been two very good days for the Simmental breed at Carlisle with a tremendous demand for both pedigree bulls and females. It was a very level show of Simmental bulls and to sell 24, to buyers across geographies in England Scotland, is real growth at this fixture and very encouraging for the breeders. Again, it’s the balance the breed brings in its maternal qualities of milk, calving ease, and temperament, allied to its terminal abilities in age at slaughter, and daily carcase gain, that’s driving this ongoing demand from commercial breeders.”
Always bringing good bulls to Simmental Sales, the Leedham family, Boghead Farm, Tarbolton, Ayrshire, again enjoyed a terrific trade when selling two bulls for 12,000gns. Both bulls were sired by the 16,000gns Overhill House Neil EX 92, whose first son at sale at Stirling in February this year sold for the joint top price of 30,000gns.
The first bull at the 12,000gns mark was the September 2024 born Grangewood Ringo. By Overhill House Neil, Ringo is out of Grangewood Mabel, a Ranfurly Impeccable daughter. In the pre-sale show, this bull had placed first in his class and went on to be the Overall Reserve Champion in front of the judge Emma McAlister who runs the Islabute herd at Coxhill Farm, Falkirk. Commenting on her Reserve Champion Emma said: “My Reserve Champion was a very good big Simmental bull with plenty of length, was clean through the middle, and was very correct. He walked well, had a lot of character and style, with a very good breed head.
Grangewood Ringo 12,000gns
Buying this bull was Richard Elliott who runs 240 three quarter bred Simmental suckler cows at High Moor Farm, Tadcaster, North Yorkshire. Commenting on his purchase Mr Elliott said: “This is a very well bred bull who is just full of potential and will grow on. He’s a very correct bull and with a super Simmental head. He’ll be introduced to the herd and with the aim of breeding first quality heifers.”
Judge Emma McAlister
The second Grangewood bull at 12,000gns from the Leedhams was Grangewood Sylvester. Again by Overhill House Neil 22 EX 92, and this time out of Grangewood Polly’s Kit Kat VG 87, this bull sold to the North East of England and AJ&R Ord from Newton Greens, Newton on the Moon, Morpeth , Northumberland.
Grangewood Sylvester 12,000gns
For the Leedhams, the first six sons at sale sired by Overhill House Neil 22 EX 92, have now averaged a terrific 16,000gns.
Newbiemains Rockafella 11,000gns
Well-known local breeders Jim & Patricia Goldie, Newbie Mains Farm, Annan, Dumfriesshire, made 11,000gns when selling Newbiemains Rockafella. Sired by Auchorachan Kennedy 19 EX 92, this November 2024 born bull is out of the Woodhall fantastic daughter, Newbiemains Isa EX 90. A dark red bull with good figures and plenty of EX classified animals in his pedigree, Newbiemains Rockafella was bought by JC Innes & Sons from Dunscroft, Huntly, Aberdeenshire.
Two bulls made 10,000gns. Leading the way, and the first bull in the ring, was the day’s Overall Supreme Champion in the shape of Habton Reacher 24 from North Yorkshire breeder AJ Bulmer, Coultas Farm, Malton. A well bred bull Habton Reacher 24 is sired by Islavale Lockdown and is out of Corskie Leah, an Aultmore Franco 14 EX 93 daughter. Of her Champion, the judge Emma McAlister said: “With a real power to him this was a well put together bull, level right through, and with a good end. He walked really well and had plenty of style.” Again going commercially, the day’s Champion was bought by D Whiteford & Co, Borewell Farm, Scremerston, Berwick on Tweed.
Habton Reacher 10,000gns
For the fast establishing Habton herd this was a memorable sale debut at Carlisle picking up the Championship, and their top sale price to date. Speaking afterwards Alex Bulmer said: “Reacher is the typical type of Simmental bull we’re aiming to breed. He’s well balanced, good on his plates, walks out well, and has plenty of breed character with a good head. We’re really delighted to win the Championship within what was a very good show of Simmental bulls, and to then go on and attain a five figure price.” The Habton herd’s first bull at a Society Sale was in Stirling and where they made 9000gns.
Coolcran Spartan 10,000gns
Making the successful trip over from Northern Ireland was Shane and Paul McDonald, Tempo, Co Fermanagh, who made 10,000gns when selling Coolcran Spartan. This January 2025 born bull is by the noted AI sire Denizes Hamish, and is out of Ashland Topaz Mair who herself had won the Reserve Junior Interbreed at the Royal Ulster Balmoral Show in 2022, as well as Reserve Supreme Champion at the NI Simmental National show in the same year. Coolcran Spartan 25 went to the Borders when being bought by S Ramsey from Falsidehill Farm, Kelso, Roxburghshire.
The demand for the Simmental bulls forward continued through the catalogue and with the youngest bull offered, Popes Sentry 25 from the Wood family, Dutton, Preston, Lancashire making 9000gns. Another by the noted Denizes Hamish, and out of the Clonagh Latin Lover sired Popes Diamonds Nella, this bull combining breeding along with figures across the traits, was bought by Christina Johnson, Fowberry Farm Bamburgh Ltd, Northumberland. The previous lot and the similarly bred Popes Someboy, another Hamish son, made 8000gns when selling to Atkin Brothers who run an extensive Simmental x Red Angus suckler herd at The Grange, Barrow on Trent, Derbyshire.
Thorncliff Rocket 8000gns
Another first time seller at Carlisle was Wayne Mosley, Thorncliff, Chelmorton, Derbyshire, and who sold the March 2024 born Thorncliff Rocket for 8000gns. This bull was yet another Denizes Hamish son, and out of Thorncliff Moya. With strong calving ease figures, Thorncliff Rocket 24 was bought by JB&EJ Peile Ltd, Greystoke Castle Farm, Penrith, Cumbria.
Up from Cornwall, and selling at 7000gns was Killiworgie Razzamatazz from Steve & Gill Gummow, Higher Killiworgie Farm, Newquay. The Senior Champion at the 2025 Agrifest South West, this September 2024 born bull is by the 19,000gns Grangewood Baron, and is out of Killiworgie Ivys Maria VG 88, an Islavale Jericho 18 EX 93 daughter. This bull, with a terrific top 1% Maternal (Milk) figure of +14, was another bought by JC Innes & So, Dunscroft, Huntly, Aberdeenshire.
by Iain | Nov 11, 2025 | 2025 Other Shows, 2025 Scottish News, 2025 News, 2025, Uncategorised
Coltfield Sister Sandra wins the Overall Junior Championship
Islavale Rafferty lifts the Overall Senior Championship
Tippetcraig wins the Junior Male Championship
Bowhill Ruth takes the Senior Female Championship
North East of Scotland based herds took the top Simmental Championship honours at the 2025 Stars of the Future Pedigree Calf Show, at United Auctions, Stirling, on Saturday 8th November with the Coltfield Herd of JC MacIver, Wester Coltfield, Forres, Moray winning the Junior Championship, and the Islavale Herd of WS Stronach, Berryleys Farm, Grange, Keith securing the Senior Championship.
A strong Simmental entry of 44 calves, from sixteen herds, were entered and came before the judge for the day Rob Fitton of the noted Simply herd, Bolton, Lancashire.
Taking the Junior Overall Championship, and Junior Female Champion, was the February 2025 born Coltfield Sister Sandra. This heifer is by the 12,000gns Islavale Northstar 22 (ET) EX 90, and is out of Coltfield Louise EX 90, a Rockytop Invader 17 EX 92 daughter. It was a tremendous outing for the Coltfield herd, their most successful to date at Stars of the Future, and who on the day won the Junior Overall Championship; the Junior Female Champion; the Reserve Senior Championship; and had a second in class to the Senior Female Champion.
Junior Female and Overall Junior Champion Coltfield Sister Sandra
Of his Junior Overall Champion, the judge Rob Fitton said: “This was a really sweet Simmental heifer and exactly what I was looking for, carrying a real presence in the ring and walking out well on four good legs. She was clean, had plenty of width to her, and had real femininity and a lot of breed character.”
Speaking afterwards Cameron MacIver said: “It was a very special day for the family and a poignant one as Coltfield Sister Sandra is named after my late sister. This was her first time out in the show ring so we are really pleased with how she ahs got on. Louise is one of the best breeding cows in the herd and this is her third calf, and each by a different sire. Plans for Sandra all being well are to how her next year and then get her in calf in the backend.”
Following Coltfield Sister Sandra through from her class, the Reserve Junior Champion, and Reserve Junior Female Champion went to the heterozygous polled Islavale Amanda 17 (P), a March 2025 heifer’s calf by Incheoch Niko 22 (PP) VG 87, and out of Islavale Amanda 11 GP 84. The homozygous polled Incheoch Niko 22 (PP) VG 87, was purchased for £10,500 at the Working Genes Sale at Incheoch Farms, Alyth in September 2023. Islavale Amanda 17 (P) will now head to Simmental Next Gen V Female & Weaned Calves Sale on Friday 12th December at Carlisle. Joining her there will be Islavale Rae who placed second in her class to the Reserve Senior Female Champion. October 2024 born, Islavale Rae is by the homebred sire Islavale Lucifer 20 EX 95, and is out of Islavale Jinx (P) EX 90, a Curaheen Giant daughter.
Reserve Junior Female and Reserve Junior Overall Champion Islavale Amanda
Overall Junior Champions Coltfield Sister Sandra & Islavale Amanda with the judge Rob Fitton
It was another top Stars of the Future Show for the Islavale herd who also took the Senior Championship, and Senior Male Champion with their December 2024 born bull Islavale Rafferty 24. This calf is the first to be shown sired by Bighill Parker ET (Imp.) EX 90. Out of Islavale Lippy GP 80, a Corskie Highlander 16 EX 93 daughter, Islavale Rafferty will be heading to the May 2026 Stirling Bull Sale. A further Bighill Parker ET (Imp.) EX 90 son, Islavale Shamrock 2 stood third in a very strong class to the Junior Male and Reserve Junior Male Champions. Semen has been taken from Bighill Parker, and a further heifer calf, Islavale Regal, will also be heading to Next Gen V at Carlisle in December.
Senior Male and Overall Senior Champion Islavale Rafferty
Commenting on his Senior Overall Champion, Islavale Rafferty, Rob Fitton said: “This is a tremendous eleven-month-old calf and a real stock bull in the making. Again he had tremendous character to him with a lovely head and big Simmental ears. Clean through he had tremendous power for his age, a good straight top on him, and walked extremely well. He’s a bull with a lot of future for sales ahead.”
Of the show of Simmentals generally Rob Fitton said: “Firstly I’d like to thank the organisers for inviting me to judge at Stars of the Future and what was a very well organised and enjoyable show. I’m delighted with my two Champions and both are animals I’d very much like to be taking home with me! It was a tremendous show of Simmental young stock and I’d very much like to congratulate all of the exhibitors.”
It was a Championship role reversal from the juniors with the Reserve Overall Senior Champion going to Coltfield Rhysand 24. September born, Rhysand is another by Islavale Northstar 22 (ET) EX 90, and is the first bull calf out of Annick Whitney’s Fresia EX 94, purchased at the Annick Dispersal Sale for 6200gns, and for the tremendous breeding behind her featuring many Royal Highland Show winners. From here Coltfield Rhysand will be aimed towards the Stirling Bull Sale in February 2026.
Reserve Senior Male Champion & Reserve Senior Overall, Coltfield Rhysand
Bringing their first ever homebred calves to Stars of the Future was the Burns Family, Tippetcraig Farm, High Bonnybridge, Stirlingshire, and who met with more than a bit of success when winning the Junior Male Championship with the appropriately named Tippetcraig Someboy. This February 2025 born calf is by Kilbride Farm Maverick 21 (P), a Kilbride Farm Jetstream 18 (P) son, and is out of Broombrae Rosina M2 21, who was purchased at Stirling in February 2023. The Burns Family also placed third in the class where the Junior Champion and Reserve Junior Champion came from, with Tippetcraig Salerno, a February 2025 born heifer, and another by Kilbride Farm Maverick 21 (P). Commenting afterwards Lindsay Burns said: “Stars of the Future has been a lot of fun, with the Simmental breeders being so friendly and helpful, and we’re really delighted to win the Junior Male Championship with Tippetcraig Someboy. As a herd we plan to do some summer showing next year, and with Tippetcraig Someboy being aimed at Stirling in October next year.”
Junior Male Champion Tippetcraig Someboy
Following Tippetcraig Someboy through from his class, and to take the Reserve Junior Male Championship, was Delfur Supernova from Delfur Farms, Rothes, Aberlour, and shown by herd manager Garry Patterson. January 2025 born, Delfur Supernova is by the 28,000gns stock bull Islavale Magnum 21, and is out Delfur Hells, a Clonagh Tiger Gallant daughter. Delfur Farms also took a first prize in the females with Delfur Shakira winning the class for heifers. January 2025 born, Shakira is by Kilbride Farm Nebulus 22, and is out of Delfur Nightingale, an Innerwick Ivor daughter.
Reserve Junior Male Champion Delfur Supernova
Taking the Senior Female Championship was Bowhill Ruth from Rachael Reid, D&R Holdings, Low Bowhill Farm, Newmilns, Ayrshire. August 2024 born, this heifer is got by the 30,000gns AI sire Denizes Lancelot, and is out of Overhill House Mary, an Aultmore Goliath daughter who was bought for £4000 in a charity auction with all proceeds going to charities helping children from the conflict in Ukraine. Earlier this summer Bowhill Ruth won the Junior Female Championship at the Scottish Simmental National Show in Perth. It was a good follow up to last years Stars of the Future for the Bowhill herd who in 2024 won the Senior Female Championship and Senior Overall Championship with Bowhill Petal, another daughter of Overhill House Mary.
Senior Female Champion Bowhill Ruth
The Reserve Senior Female Champion, and winner of Class 4, came in the shape of Aultside Royalty from Garry Patterson, Rothes, Moray. This November 2024 born heifer is by Saltire Impressive and is out of Hazelden Jingle 8th, a Whitemire King Kong daughter.
Reserve Senior Female Champion Aultside Royality
2025 STARS OF THE FUTURE PEDIGREE CALF SHOW
SIMMENTAL RESULTS – Judged by Rob Fitton, Simply Herd, Bolton
Class 1 – Senior Males (2nd July – 16th September 2024)
1st 47 Megan MacIver Coltfield Rhysand
2nd 43 Barlow Brothers Denizes Rocketman 24
Class 2 – Senior Males (24th October – 8th December 2024)
1st 53 W S Stronach Islavale Rafferty
2nd 52 Bowhill Simmentals Bowhill Racer
3rd 51 J & E Dyet – Merkland Rocket
4th 49 J & E Dyet Merkland Rory
Class 3 Senior Females (19th October – 6th December 2024)
1st 55 Bowhill Simmentals – Bowhill Ruth
2nd 57 James MacIver – Coltfield River
3rd 59 Barlow Brothers – Denizes Matilda 21st
4th 54 Gavin Brown – Springfield Rose
5th 58 N & N Gwynne – Chestermann Explorer Lulu 4
6th 60 D & R Durno & Sons – Auchorachan Remi Nanny
7th 56 Frank Gwynne – Castlewigg Explorer Girlie 5
Class 4 Senior Females (19th October – 6th December)
1st 63 Garry Patterson Aultside Royality
2nd 61 W S Stronach Islavale Rae
3rd 62 D & R Durno & Sons Auchorachan Rusty Madie
4th 64 J & E Dyet Merkland Joy 24
5th 66 J & E Dyet Merkland Rebecca
6th 67 J O Hodge Swinton Milky Girl
Class 5 – Junior Males (4th January – 4th May 2025)
1st 70 The Burns Family Tippetcraig Someboy
2nd 68 Delfur Farms Delfur Supernova
3rd 74 W S Stronach Islavale Shamrock 2 25
4th 69 Cameron MacIver Coltfield Sambo
5th 71 Mr And Mrs L Moffat Innerwick Supreme 25
6th 72 Gavin Brown Springfield Strongbow
7th 73 Gavin Brown Springfield Stallone
Class 6 – Junior Females (3rd January – 23rd January 2025)
1st 75 Delfur Farms Delfur Shakira
Delfur Shakira
2nd 79 Andrew Leedham Grangewood Jemima’s Sugar Plum
3rd 78 Andrew Leedham Grangewood Tollie’s Sparkle
4th 77 Andrew Leedham Grangewood Matilda’s Sweet Pea
5th 80 Frank Gwynne Castlewigg Ringleader J-lo 2
Class 7 – Junior Females – 8th February – 5th May 2025
1st 81 James MacIver Coltfield Sister Sandra
2nd 83 W S Stronach Islavale Amanda 17 (P)
3rd 82 The Burns Family Tippetcraig Salerno
4th 85 Gavin Brown Springfield Shannon
5th 84 Gavin Brown Springfield Skylar
Junior Championship
Junior Male Champion The Burns Family Tippetcraig Someboy
Reserve Junior Male Champion Delfur Farms Delfur Supernova
Junior Female Champion James MacIver Coltfield Sister Sandra
Reserve Junior Female Champion W S Stronach Islavale Amanda 17 (P)
Junior Overall Champion James MacIver Coltfield Sister Sandra
Reserve Junior Overall Champion W S Stronach Islavale Amanda 17 (P)
Senior Championship
Senior Male Champion – W S Stronach Islavale Rafferty
Reserve Senior Male Champion – Megan MacIver Coltfield Rhysand
Senior Female Champion – Bowhill Simmentals Bowhill Ruth
Reserve Senior Female Champion – Garry Patterson Aultside Royality
Senior Overall Champion – W S Stronach Islavale Rafferty
Reserve Senior Overall Champion – Megan MacIver Coltfield Rhysand
by Iain | Nov 3, 2025 | 2025 North West News, 2025 Midlands News, 2025 Other Shows, 2025 News, 2025, Uncategorised
The April 2024 heifer Denizes Melody 62nd from the Goldstar herd of Ayrshire’s James Hodge, Dundonald, lifted the Overall Supreme, and Senior Champion titles at the Simmental Youngstock Show held within the Borderway Agri Expo yesterday, Friday 31st October at Harrison & Hetherington’s Borderway Mart.
This growing Simmental show, held in the fantastic new extension within Borderway Mart, Carlisle, saw a good entry of Simmental youngstock with entries from Scotland, England, and Wales competing. The Young Handler classes were also well supported and keenly contested which was great to see.
Denizes Melody 62nd Senior and Overall Supreme Champion
Sired by Hiltonstown Lorenzo, the days Champion, Denizes Melody 62nd, was purchased as a calf at foot along with her mum, the then nine-year-old Denizes Melody 22nd, for 7000gns at the Production Sale of the Denizes Herd of MA Barlow & Sons, Lancashire, held at Stirling in October 2024. Earlier this summer she secured a memorable Overall reserve Supreme at the Simmental Scottish National Show held in Perth.
After giving her the Championship tap, the judge for the day James Griffin, of the noted Hemingford herd, Cambridgeshire, said: “This is a really classy heifer full of style and presence. She was very correct, well fleshed, walked well, had plenty of breed character, and just has all the makings to be a tremendous Simmental breeding female.”
Judge for the day, James Griffin of the Hemingford Herd getting hands on
Denizes Melody 62nd had initially come through the first heifer class of the day for heifers born between 1st April – 30th June 2024, before going on to take the Senior Championship, and finally the Overall Supreme title. Commenting afterwards James Hodge said: “We’re really delighted to have won the Overall Supreme Championship with Melody and in what is our first time at the event. From day one she has just been a dream to work with. We’ve had a fantastic summer and this has now just rounded off the year. From here we’ll aim to get in her in-calf and with a view to a back end calving. We’ll look at taking her to Ayr Show in May next year, and some other local shows. The Simmental Youngstock Show was a fantastic event as a whole and it was great to take part and meet a few new breeders from around the UK.”
Taking the Overall Reserve Supreme, and the Junior Championship, was the January 2025 born Fishpool Spartan (P) from Tom and Jenn Hassall, Winsford, Cheshire. Heterozygous polled, this young bull is by Newbiemains Kalypso 19, and is out of Fishpool Lottie (P), from the herd’s Kilbride Farm Eunice 277J line. This calf won the class for bull calves born between 1st January 2025 and 15th March 2025, where he pipped his stablemate, the similarly bred Fishpool Spitfire 2025, also by Kalypso and +11 for Maternal (Milk), into second place.
Fishpool Spartan Junior and Reserve Overall Supreme Champion
Of his Reserve Champion the judge James Griffin said: “Just a really nice bull calf who had that bit of sparkle on the day. Still very young he was a calf with shape, a good top, and again who walked very well.”
For the Fishpool herd, regular supporters of the Simmental Youngstock Show, this was their highest placing to date. Speaking afterwards Jenn Hassall said: “We’re really delighted to have won the Overall Reserve today. We think Spartan is a very modern Simmental who has length to him, with a good end, and is good on his legs. He’s got such a gentle nature and we’ll see how he goes on from here but his next trip will be to the English Winter Fair next month.”
The Denizes herd of MA Barlow & Sons, Ulnes, Nr Leyland, Lancs put up a strong defence of their Overall Supreme title won last year, and when taking the Reserve Supreme Championship with Denizes Ringmaster 24. This June 2024 born calf is one of the first sons by the herd stock bull Corskie Nutmeg, purchased privately in 2023 for £32,000 after winning the Junior Male Championship at the Royal Highland Show. Out of Kennox Imogen (TF), Denizes Ringmaster is in the breed’s top 1% for Maternal (Milk), and top 5% for 220, 400, 600 day weight. Denizes Ringmaster is being aimed at the 2026 Stirling February Bull Sale. On the day, the Denizes herd also won the class for heifers born between 1st July 2024 – 30th September 2024 with the Denizes Hamish 16 daughter, Denizes Matilda 21st. Having bred Denizes Melody 62nd, this is the second year in a row that a Denizes animal has won the Overall Supreme.
Denizes Ringmaster 24 Reserve Senior Champion
Lifting the Reserve Junior Championship was the smart young heifer Castlewigg Ringleader J-Lo 2 from Frank Gwynne, Castlewigg Farm, Whithorn, Newton Stewart. January 2025 born this well bred heifer is by Blackford Ringleader, and is out of Brandane J-Lo, a Team Celtic daughter out of Sterling Bacardi’s Funky. Again with strong performance figures, this Castlewigg heifer is in the breed’s top 10% for 200, 400, & 600 day weight, and also in the top 10% for Maternal (+Milk). Castlewigg Ringleader J-Lo 2 initially came through a strong class of heifers born between 1st January 2025, and 15th March 2025.
Castlewigg Ringleader J-LO 2 Reserve Junior Champion
It was another good day for the Storersmith herd of Richard & Louise Storer Smith, Spath Farm House, Uttoxeter, who lifted a first prize in the bull calf classes, had a class 1-2-3 in the heifers, and rounded it off by winning the Pairs! In the class for heifers born between 1st October 2024 – 31st December 2024, the red ticket went to the November 2024 born Storersmith Rapunzel. Out of Storersmith Moonshine GP 83, this heifer is by herd sire Storersmith Navarone 22 VG 88 the Overall Supreme Champion at this year’s Simmental English National Show. Rapunzel prevailed over her team mates Storersmith Ribbon, a Ranfurly Notorious N2 22 daughter, and Storersmith Raffia, another by Navarone 22 VG 88. Winning the class for bulls born between 1st October 2024 – 31st December 2024 was the December born Storersmith Rasputin, again by Storersmith Navarone 22 VG 88, and out of the Atlow Dixon daughter Storersmith Misty VG 87. Come the Pairs and Storersmith Rapunzel teamed up with Storersmith Robyn, another Navarone 22 VG 88 daughter, to take that title.
Storersmith Rapunzel
A further noted mention must go to Gavin Brown, Penicuik, Midlothian. Another strong team saw Springfield cattle have a first and a second in the bull class for calves born on or after 16th March 2025 with Springfield Strongbow, and Springfield Stallone; a win in the heifer class born on or after 15th March 2025 with Springfield Skylar; Reserve Overall in the Pairs with Islavale Raven and Springfield Raven, and a further second, and third prize tickets in a heifer class.
Springfield Strongbow
A highlight of this annual show is the Young Handlers classes judged during the Championships, and they were once again keenly contested this year with tremendous enthusiasm and ability throughout. Winning the category for handlers aged between 10 and 15 years was Polly Steggles of the Wacton herd, Norfolk, whilst the class for young handlers aged between 15 and 28 years was won by Beth Lawman who was showing with the Storersmith team, Uttoxeter.
Denizes Melody 62nd and Fishpool Spartan 25 Overall and Reserve Overall Champion
Denizes Melody 62nd and Denizes Ringmaster 24 Senior and Reserve Senior Champion
2025 SIMMENTAL YOUNGSTOCK SHOW, BORDERWAY AGRI EXPO, H&H, CARLISLE
31st October 2025
Judge: James Griffin, Hemingford Herd, Cambridgeshire
Results
Bull born between 1.4.24&30.6.25
1st: MA Barlow & Sons – Denizes Ringmaster 24
2nd: Messrs RCS&CFE Addison – Lyvennet Racey 24
Bull born between 1.10.25&31.12.24
1st: R&L Storer Smith – Storersmith Rasputin 24
Storersmith Rasputin
Bull born between 1.1.25&15.3.25
1st: T&J Hassall – Fishpool Spartan 25
2nd: T&J Hassall – Fishpool Spitfire
3rd: M/SRE & SHW Steggles – Wacton Schoffel 25
Bull born on or after 16.3.25
1st: Gavin Brown – Springfield Strongbow 25
Springfield Strongbow
2nd: Gavin Brown – Springfield Stallone
Heifer born between 1.4.24&30.6.24
1st: James & Claire Hodge – Denizes Melody 62nd
2nd: Gavin Brown – Islavale Raven
3rd: Gavin Brown – Springfield Rita
Heifer born between 1.7.24&30.9.24
1st: MA Barlow & Sons – Denizes Matilda 21st
Denizes Matilda 21st
2nd: Gavin Brown – Springfield Rose
3rd: Messrs N&N Gwynne – Chestermann Explorer Lulu
Heifer born between 1.10.24&31.12.24
1st: R&L Storer Smith – Storersmith Rapunzel
2nd: R&L Storer Smith – Storersmith Ribbon
3rd: R&L Storer Smith – Storersmith Raffia
Heifer born between 1.1.25&15.3.25
1st: Frank Gwynne – Castlewigg Ringleader J-Lo 2
2nd: A Davies – Hirwaun Snowdrop
Hirwaun Snowdrop
3rd: M/SRE & SHW Steggles – Wacton Sophie
Heifer born on or after 16.3.25
1st: Gavin Brown – Springfield Skylar
Springfield Skylar
2nd: Nick Edmondson – Crakeside Sadie Haka
3rd: Gavin Brown – Springfield Shannon
Pairs
1st: R&L Storer Smith
Pairs winners Storersmith Rapunzel and Storersmith Robyn
2nd: Gavin Brown
Young Handlers
Young handlers aged between 10 and 15 years: Polly Steggles
Young handlers aged between 15 and 28 years: Beth Lawman
Senior Champion
– James & Claire Hodge – Denizes Melody 62nd
Reserve Senior Champion
– MA Barlow & Sons – Denizes Ringmaster 24
Junior Champion
– T&J Hassall – Fishpool Spartan 25
Reserve Junior Champion
– Frank Gwynne – Castlewigg Ringleader J-Lo 2
Overall Supreme Champion
– James & Claire Hodge – Denizes Melody 62nd
Reserve Overall Supreme Champion
– T&J Hassall – Fishpool Spartan 25
by Iain | Jun 24, 2025 | 2025 Royal Highland Show, 2025 Scottish News, 2025 News, 2025, Uncategorised
Annick Ginger’s Lucia wins Simmental Overall Supreme
Corskie Mimic takes the Overall Reserve
Garmouth Robert crowned Male Champion
Corskie Pinette Overall Junior Champion
The remarkable Annick Ginger’s Lucia, from Reece & Andrew Simmers, Backmuir Farm, Keith, Banffshire, was at it again as she lifted the Simmental Overall Supreme Championship for the third year in a row on the opening day of the 2025 Royal Highland Show, Thursday 19th June, held at Ingliston, Edinburgh.
There were new show records aplenty as Annick Ginger’s Lucia becomes the first Simmental animal to seal a hat-trick of consecutive Supreme Championships at this premier show. The 2025 win also meant it was an unprecedented fourth Royal Highland win in a row for the Backmuir herd with their first win coming in 2022 with Islavale Lullaby, and when Annick Ginger’s Lucia was Overall Reserve!
Annick Ginger’s Lucia, Overall Supreme Simmental Champion, and Female Champion
Presiding over this year’s Simmental section was the judge for the day Andrew Clarke of the noted Breaghey Herd, Tynan, Co. Armagh, and who was full of praise for his choice of Champion. Commenting he said: “My Champion today is a fantastic example of the modern Simmental breed and she came out of a class of three outstanding cows just full of quality. Brim full of femininity she has so much style and presence in the ring. With a top line as straight as a die she has tremendous width to her, has a natural power, moves really well, and is making a good job of her calf at foot. A terrific Simmental cow and a very worthy Champion.”
February 2020 born, Annick Ginger’s Lucia is sired by Wolfstar Gold Digger 15 and is out of Annick Colleen’s Ginger EX 93, a Corskie Callum 11 daughter. She was shown at this year’s show with her April 2025 born bull calf at foot, Backmuir Sirius 25, sired by Backmuir King 19. Last year this much decorated Simmental cow won the Royal Highland Overall Supreme Individual Interbreed when shown with her bull calf at foot Backmuir Pompeii. Roll on twelve months and Pompeii also came to the party when winning a red ticket in his own right. A huge roll call of wins and accolades now on her show CV, firmly making her one of the most noted females in the breed’s history, Annick Ginger’s Lucia’s highlight wins include: three Royal Highland Show (RHS) Supreme Championships; the RHS Overall Supreme Individual Interbreed; the Scottish Simmental National Overall Supreme at Turriff, and the Individual Interbreed on the same day.
Commenting on the ‘double whammy’ of ‘four in a row’ RHS Supreme Championships, and within that Annick Ginger’s Lucia’s hat-trick, Reece Simmers said: “It’s very humbling to win the Overall Supreme Championship once at the Royal Highland Show, Scotland’s premier showcase, let alone an incredible four times in a row. The standard of competition is always so high as it was again this year and we would congratulate all of the exhibitors for the show of Simmental stock. By her nature Ginger’s Lucia is a really naturally showy animal and is easy to work with. From here we’ll consider whether she heads to the Scottish Simmental National Show at Perth in August.” Speaking generally about the Backmuir herd, which now stands at approximately 100 cows, Reece went on to say: “We’re looking to breed Simmental cattle, both bulls and females, that have power and size, weight at a young age, with good plates, tops, and length, that are growthy and easy fleshing, and carry that Simmental style to them. Ginger’s Lucia we think has many of these attributes and is a terrific template for the herd.” Later in the day, Annick Ginger’s Lucia teamed up with her full sister Annick Ginger’s Nutmeg, and her November 2023 born second calf Backmuir Pompeii, to win the Group of Three.
Backmuir Winning Group of Three
Of the show of cattle and the Simmental breed generally, the judge Andrew Clarke said: “It really was an honour to judge the Simmental section and I’d very much like to thank the RHS and British Simmental. I’d also say a huge well done to all of the exhibitors. There was quality throughout the Simmental lines and classes which made for some difficult decisions within what was a hugely enjoyable day. As I said prior to the show I’m big on style and correctness and modern Simmental cattle that have the attributes to breed and add value to a commercial market. I think we saw that today and it is reflective of the consistency and ongoing improvement that we are seeing in the Simmental breed generally.”
Judge Andrew Clarke in action at the 2025 Royal Highland Show
It was once again very much a ‘ladies day’ for this maternal breed and with females taking the Overall, Reserve Overall, and Overall Junior titles. Featuring strongly throughout the Championships, and with another top team forward was the Green family and with entries from the Corskie herd of WJ & J Green, and the Garmouth herd of Laura Green, at Corskie Farm, Garmouth, Fochabers.
Taking the Overall Supreme Reserve and the Overall Reserve Female was the stylish Corskie Mimic VG88 who had stood second to the Champion in her class before following her all the way through. Remarkably, it was the second time this January 2021 born female, out of Corskie Imitation, had stood in the same positions at the RHS, and again to Ginger’s Lucia, having done so in 2023! Mimic was also the Overall Junior Champion at the 2022 Scottish National Show, and her first calf, Corskie Phoney 23 sold for 13,000gns at the record breaking February 2025 sale at Stirling. Sired by Kilbride Farm Haka, she was shown with her terrific heifer calf at foot, the August 2024 born Corskie Role Play, a Rathnashan Magnum EX92 daughter. Of his Overall Reserve, Andrew Clarke said: “This is another terrific Simmental cow, well fleshed, and with terrific conformation. Full of style again, very feminine with a great top line and a lovely udder. A very modern type of female she walked really well and had a little more thickness than the Champion. With a super calf at foot this was a great outfit, a real picture.”
Corskie Mimic, Overall Reserve Supreme, and Reserve Female Champion
In the bulls and it was the turn of Laura Green who picked up the Male Championship, and the Junior Male Championship, with the young, April 2024 born bull, Garmouth Robert 24. With plenty of breeding behind him, this calf is by Rathnashan Magnum EX92, who has had sons to 20,000gns, and is out of Garmouth Glory’s Jessica who has previously bred the 10,000gns Garmouth Matt. Commenting on Garmouth Robert 24 the judge said: “ My Male Champion was a really smart, sweet young bull. Very modern, clean, with a good end, he had a great presence to him, moved extremely well, had plenty of style and with no roughness to him. He’s a bull with few faults and I have no doubt has a big future ahead of him.” On the Saturday, this young bull with both Terminal and Self Replacing Indexes in the top 5% of the breed, placed third Reserve in the Beef Breeder Interbreed. Plans now are that Garmouth Robert 24 will head to a forward Stirling Simmental Bull Sale.
Garmouth Robert, Overall Male Champion, Junior Male Champion, and Reserve Junior Overall
Keeping the titles coming for the green family was the Overall Junior Champion, and Junior Female Champion in the shape of the flashy Corskie Pinette. September 2023 born, Pinette is by Rathnashan Leonardo EX94, and is out of Corskie Jinette EX90. Again with plenty of breeding and performance in the pedigree, Rathnashan Leonardo EX94 is the sire of the 26,000gns Corskie Prime sold in February this year at Stirling, and is out of the Dirnanean Bradley daughter Corskie Jinette EX90 who has bred four heifer calves to date. Hitting the right notes for the judge, Andrew Clarke commented: “This heifer just caught me right away, and I just really liked her. Smart and stylish she’s sweet throughout, very correct with a lovely head, and having that ‘look at me’ presence and quality. She has fantastic hindquarters with a lovely softness to her, and is the type of heifer that would stand well in any company.”
Corskie Pinette, Overall Junior Champion and Junior Female Champion
Standing in the Reserve Junior Female position was another from the Simmers Backmuir herd and in the shape of the flashy heifer Backmuir Lu Lu’s Rosalu and who was first in the second class of the day. February 2024 born, this young heifer is another with a depth of pedigree being sired by Backmuir King 19, the Male Champion at the 2023 RHS, and out of the 18,000gns Brandane Lu Lu who was purchased at the Nxt Gen II Sale at Carlisle in 2022. Backmuir Lu Lu’s Rosalu was herself a first prize winner at last year’s Scottish Simmental National Show.
Backmuir Lu Lu’s Rosalu, Reserve Junior Female Champion
Back in the bulls and putting up a stout defence of his Male Championship from last year was Annick Nazareth 22 from Jim & Elizabeth Dyet’s Merkland Herd, East Merkland Farm, Strathaven, Lanarkshire, and who this year took the Reserve Male Championship. April 2022 born, Annick Nazareth is by Kilbride Farm Karl 19 (P), and is out of Annick Fresias Kiki VG85 who herself was Female and Reserve Overall Champion at the Royal Highland in 2021. Annick Nazareth 22 was purchased as a calf at foot for 7500gns (for the unit) at the Annick Dispersal Sale, and in 2023 the Dyets showed him at the Scottish National Simmental Show at Dumfries and where he won Reserve Junior Male.
Annick Nazareth 22, Overall Reserve Male Champion
Always bringing good cattle to the RHS, and with previous Supreme Championship wins behind them, Gerald & Morag Smith, Fordoun, Laurencekirk were to the fore again and when taking the Reserve Junior Male title with their powerful December 2024 born bull Drumsleed Rocco 24. This calf, with a Maternal (Milk) figure of +9, is by the prolific AI bull team Celtic, and is out of a ‘big cow’ Drumsleed Akira, a Hockenhull Matthew daughter. Drumsleed Rocco will now be aimed at the Stirling Bull Sale in October this year. Enjoying another good day, the Smiths also had a class win in the females with the stylish Drumsleed Poppy, a Rockytop Lucifer daughter out of Drumsleed Irene 17, taking the red ticket in the fourth class of the day.
Drumsleed Rocco, Reserve Junior Male Champion
A special mention also goes to the rising seven year old Denizes Trixi Belle 15 from MA Barlow & Sons, Four Oaks, Ulnes, Nr Leyland, Lancashire, and who placed first in the final female class of the day. Marking this Denizes Hamish 16 daughter out was the unique spectacle of her being shown with her triplet heifer calves at foot. A sight that wowed the watching and attending crowds over four days, it is thought to be the first time triplets, a 100,000 – 1 chance, have been shown in a Simmental ring or perhaps any show ring, in the United Kingdom! Look out on Facebook for more coverage of mum and her calves!
Denizes Trixi Belle 15 with her triplet heifer calves
Overall Championship Presentation
Junior Championship Presentation
Male Championship Presentation
2025 Royal Highland Show
Thursday 19th June 2025
Judge Mr Andrew Clarke, Tynan, Co Armagh
Results
Class 263 Female, born on or after 1st April 2024
1st H Duff Pitmudie Roselyn
Pitmudie Roselyn
2nd Gavin Brown Springfield Rose
3rd Gavin Brown Islavale Raven
Class 264 Female, born between 1st January and 31st March 2024
1st R&A Simmers Backmuir Lu Lu’s Rosalu
2nd Laura Green Garmouth Kim’s Rachel
3rd R&A Simmers Backmuir Lucia’s Rumba
4th WJ&J Green Corskie Right
Class 265 Female, born on or between 1st July and 31st December 2023
1st WJ&J Green Corskie Pinette
2nd WJ&J Green Corskie Pence
3rd Bowhill Simmentals Bowhill Petal
4th J&E Dyet Merkland Pippa
5th Gavin Brown Springfield Prada
Class 266 Female, born on or between 1st January and 30th June 2023
1st G&M Smith Drumsleed Poppy 23
Drumsleed Poppy
2nd H Duff Pitmudie Primrose
3rd H Duff Pitmudie Pandora (P)
4th Bowhill Simmentals Bowhill Poppy
5th J&E Dyet Merkland Paula
Class 267 Female, calved before 3 years or due to calve before 3 years old, in milk or in calf born 2022
1st R&A Simmers Annick Gingers Nutmeg
Annick Gingers Nutmeg
Class 268 Female, born in 2020 or 2021 in milk or certified in calf at time of show
1st R&A Simmers Annick Ginger’s Lucia
2nd WJ&J Green Corskie Mimic
3rd James Hodge Heathbrow Milky Way
Class 269 Female, born on or before 31st December 2019, in milk or certified in calf at time of show
1st Barlow Brothers Denizes Trixie Belle 15
Class 270 Bull, born on or after 1st April 2024
1st Laura Green Garmouth Robert 24
2nd H Duff Pitmudie Rambo 24
3rd WJ&J Green Corskie Roll 24
271 Bull, born on or between 1st January and 31st March 2024
1st G&M Smith Drumsleed Rocco 24
2nd WJ&J Green Corskie Rome 24
3rd G&M Smith Drumsleed Rambo 24
4th Jack Shaw Inverdunning Ricky 24 (P)
5th Dean Saunders Maidenlands Rolo 24 (PP)
6th H Duff Pitmudie Rolex 24
7th Jack Shaw Inverdunning Romeo 24
272 Bull, born on or between 1st January and 31st December 2023
1st R&A Simmers Backmuir Pompeii 23
Backmuir Pompeii
273 Bull, born on or before 31st December 2022
1st J&E Dyet Annick Nazareth 22
2nd Crinan Dunbar Islavale Kristoff 19
Overall Supreme Champion
Annick Ginger’s Lucia R&A Simmers
Reserve Supreme Champion
Corskie Mimic WJ&J Green
Overall Female Champion
Annick Ginger’s Lucia R&A Simmers
Overall Reserve Female Champion
Corskie Mimic WJ&J Green
Overall Male Champion
Garmouth Robert 24 Laura Green
Overall Reserve Male Champion
Annick Nazareth 22 J&E Dyet
Overall Junior Champion
Corskie Pinette WJ&J Green
Overall Reserve Junior Champion
Garmouth Robert 24 Laura Green
Champion Junior Female
Corskie Pinette WJ&J Green
Reserve Junior Female
Backmuir Lu Lu’s Rosalu R&A Simmers
Champion Junior Male
Garmouth Robert 24 Laura Green
Reserve Junior Male
Drumsleed Rocco 24 G&M Smith
Best Group
R&A Simmers
Annick Ginger’s Nutmeg; Annick Ginger’s Lucia; Backmuir Pompeii 23
by Rachel Foley | Mar 13, 2025 | 2025 Scottish News, 2025 News, 2025, Uncategorised
Showcasing tremendous longevity and prolificacy, it’s a big happy birthday to the noted Simmental bull Team Celtic who yesterday, 12th March, enjoyed his 14th birthday at home in the Wolfstar herd of Ross King, and his parents Alex and Marion, at Ormiston, East Lothian.
Team Celtic pictured in 2016
A gold star example of the traits and all round value the Simmental breed is renowned for, Team Celtic has been used on commercial cows as well as pedigree cows and has sired close on 300 calves at Wolfstar. Through AI in herds across the UK, he also has some 377 pedigree progeny to his name, confirming his status as one of the most influential modern sires in the British Simmental Herdbook.
Born on the 12th March 2011, Team Celtic was bred by Robert MacGregor, Kirkton of Mailler, Craigend, Perth. He is sired by Auchorachan Winger, a Clonagh Tiger Gallant son, and is out of the Tilbrook Noble daughter, Team Kiwi 4, herself a twin to a female. Rolling on to the Stirling Simmental Sale in October 2012 and it was there that the Kings first set eyes on him and paid what has turned out to be a ‘bargain’ 11,000gns price! Commenting Ross King said: “At the Stirling Sale, Celtic just had a great growth and length, and we thought he was a very natural bull with lots of potential in him. We liked his pedigree and thought he was an obvious choice to complement our cows at the time.”
Team Celtic on sale day at Stirling in 2012 and where he made 11,000gns
It has proven to be a shrewd investment and from the outset Team Celtic bred consistently well producing both quality bulls and females. “We have no doubt that Celtic’s progeny was a formative part in putting the Wolfstar herd on the map and getting it noticed. In large measure it’s his success that made us grow the pedigree herd from 40 to 70 pedigree cows.”
The quality of the progeny, allied to some ‘cannae’ marketing on Facebook and in the Society’s Review publication, quickly grew a lot of interest and demand for Team Celtic genetics: ’All marketing of the semen has been carried out by ourselves, but again it’s his progeny that has done most of the talking. Catherine MacGregor also took some great photos of him in his prime and that enabled us to share how well he had matured,” says Ross.
Team Celtic sons have done extremely well at Stirling Sales, with many prize and section winners, and two Overall Supreme Champions. At the recent 2025 February Simmental Sale at Stirling, the breed record breaking 56,000gns Hemingford Prince Charming was sired by a Team Celtic son, Saltire Jaguar. At the same sale Wolfstar Prototype, and Wolfstar Pocket Rocket both sold for 14,000gns, and with Celtic sons at Stirling from the Wolfstar herd alone having now averaged over a terrific £11,900. The top price Team Celtic sired bull to date is the 28,000gns Islavale Magnum from WS Stronach, Keith, purchased by Delfur Farms, Aberlour in October 2022.
Team Celtic son Islavale Magnum 28,000gns
Continuing Ross says: “It’s the bulls that get the headlines but we believe that his females are actually better! As a herd we don’t show so Celtic’s heifers don’t get the same exposure the bulls do. Just mentioning two daughters but we think Wolfstar Flame is probably the best animal Team Celtic has bred here, and Wolfstar Forget-Me-Not has bred two bulls at 17,000gns (Wolfstar Jimmy Choo, and Wolfstar Nobleman).”
Wolfstar Forget-Me-Not, dam of two 17,000gns Wolfstar bulls.
Other Simmental herds have enjoyed great success in the show ring with Team Celtic breeding and including the multi-titled Annick Ginger’s Lucia, the 2024 Individual Interbreed Champion at the Royal Highland, from Reece & Andrew Simmers Backmuir herd, who is by the Team Celtic sired Wolfstar Gold Digger. The 2022 English National Show Champion came in the shape of Popes Princess Lumi from the Wood family, Dutton, Preston, and with Popes Princess Noor, from the same home, taking the 2024 Great Yorkshire Show title. Both are Team Celtic daughters. Back in the sale ring, and the 37,000gns top price at Stirling in May 2024 was Denizes Nugget from MA Barlow & Sons, Leyland, Lancashire and who is out of the Team Celtic daughter Ashland Topaz Janet.
Team Celtic daughter Popes Princess Lumi, Supreme & Female Champion 2022 English National Show
Backing up his pedigree and performance in the sale and show ring, and through the strength of his progeny, Team Celtic’s figures feature at the top end of many of the breed’s terminal and maternal traits (and with high levels of accuracy). Celtic is in the top 1% for 200; 400; and 600 day growth; Maternal (Milk); and Carcase Weight. His Terminal Production Index and Self Replacing Index values are also both in the breed’s top 1%. “Team Celtic’s progeny have just continued to improve his figures” says Ross. “The biggest change has been his Maternal (Milk) EBV. Since buying him as a young bull, and after his daughters started calving, his Milk figures just pushed on to one point where he had the highest breed figures for the trait”
Here he is and looking sprightly, the birthday boy Team Celtic, pictured yesterday 12th March 2025
So how is the birthday boy now and after his big day. “Celtic is showing his age a bit now but he really is still very fit and mobile. Visitors have always been impressed with his locomotion even with his size and power. At 14 he is still eager to work, but we are selective with the females we put to him, and last year he just got a handful of heifers. We know we are into bonus years but so long as he is fit and healthy he will stay with us at Wolfstar. He’s leaving a huge legacy here and is very much one of the family now..”, says Ross. Well said that man!
Commenting BSCS General Manager Iain Kerr said: “It’s a great story of a working bull, leaving his mark and legacy in a herd and a breed, and at a human level with a family, that I’m sure will resonate with a lot of cattle breeders. Team Celtic continues to be a hugely influential bull in the Simmental breed and the Wolfstar herd, and that is a great credit to the King family picking and purchasing him in the first instance, and for their herd management of him thereafter. With over 600+ progeny, many of which have proven to be both high end pedigree breeding bulls and females, Team Celtic really has generated a significant ‘one-bull economy’ with what will be a huge collective monetary value, as well as a breeding legacy. We market and promote the Simmental breed for it’s efficiency, what it brings in both its leading maternal and terminal traits, and for its longevity. Team Celtic is a gold star example of this and we wish him a very Happy Birthday!
by Rachel Foley | Feb 11, 2025 | 2025 Scottish News, 2025 News, 2025, Uncategorised
Here we focus on the King family at Ormiston, East Lothian, and who run the highly noted Wolfstar pedigree Simmental herd alongside their 100 cow Simmental cross suckler herd.
Farm Facts:
- Ross King farming in partnership with parents, Alex and Marion
- Wolfstar, Ormiston, East Lothian
- 700 acres arable
- 200 acres permanent grazing
- 70 cow pedigree Simmental herd
- 100 cow Simmental cross suckler herd
- Commercial finishing enterprise
Ross together with his father, Alex and one employee not only manage a 700-acre arable enterprise but also a multi beef enterprise firmly built on Simmental genetics – a 100-cow commercial suckler herd with progeny finished on farm, and the 70-cow Wolfstar pedigree herd commonly regarded as one of the foremost in the herdbook and having bred 10 five figure bulls at Stirling in the last five years.
“We run the pedigree and commercial herds as one. Management is identical. We breed all our cattle as efficiently as we can in terms of performance; the pedigree cows have to match the performance of the commercials,” Ross explains.
“All our breeding females have to be able to look after themselves and remain in average body condition score 2.5 – 3.0 all year round. They have to be hassle free and calve themselves outdoors with minimum assistance. And since we live one mile from the calving fields, they have to be able to get on with it themselves, then they must have good mothering ability. Furthermore, newborn calves have to be vigorous and get up and away, especially in bad weather.”
Wolfstar’s commercial herd comprises Simmental cross Angus genetics. “We introduced a criss cross breeding strategy 25 years ago and have something that works very well for us. While we’ve maintained that hybrid vigour, we’re breeding a really nice balanced hassle-free cow with a moderate frame and able to rear a calf demonstrating good growth.
“Our objective for the pedigree herd is to breed bulls that we would like to use ourselves. While we’d always like to breed a curve bender with ease of calving and high growth rates, we focus solely on selecting for commercial traits and then rearing the progeny in our commercial environment. After all, we have to have confidence in what we breed,” comments Ross adding: “We don’t do any summer showing – we are very strict on biosecurity and taking the other enterprises into account, we just don’t have the time.”
Both commercial and pedigree females are maturing at an average 720kg, reaching 400kg at bulling to calve at an average 24 months. Calving is all complete within nine weeks and we’ve 90% of the herd calving within the first two cycles. To keep the herd fresh, cows only have eight calvings, that’s unless she’s a superstar,” he says. Commercial steers are going on to finish at an average 350kg at 14 months, heifers an average 320kg at 16 months and grading within the U and R specification.
He adds: “Simmental has definitely found its feet as a dual-purpose breed and I firmly believe the breed will always have a place both at Wolfstar and in the national suckler herd where it is increasingly prolific, and very popular for crossing with other breeds. Furthermore, Simmental sired calves continue to top the National Beef Evaluations chart as the fastest to finish which means fewer days on farm and subsequently reduced Carbon footprint.”
The King family’s overall objective at Wolfstar is to manage a profitable farming business. “We’ve a traditional arable enterprise growing winter and spring barley, winter wheat and combining peas however we’ve areas that can’t be ploughed – both flood plain, reclaimed woodland and undermined, so we’ve always farmed a complementary suckler finishing herd.
Dad manages the arable enterprise, and myself the cattle, but we both help out with each enterprise and discuss most decisions, and we find there’s usually some friendly competition. We always compare the annual accounts; each cost is analysed and area margins worked out to see where we can make improvements.”
Turn the clock back over 35 years and Wolfstar’s herd comprised Charolais and dairy bred beef genetics producing suckled calves. Seeking to breed their own replacements, the Kings were introduced to the Simmental. “Dad liked the fact the breed was dual purpose and we could close the herd. Back in the 1990, he subsequently invested in a bull and found he left easily managed females that could calve outdoors with minimal assistance.” The rest is history.
Alex went on to invest in his first pedigree heifer in 1997, Woodhall Damara followed by only four more and the odd bull, Ross explains. “The pedigree herd was very much a hobby until 2009 when I came home from college and travelling and then we began to grow the numbers. We introduced a focused breeding programme featuring good commercial traits to produce cattle that we would wish to farm ourselves, as well as other producers. We also started to push up numbers – to 30, then 40, but we’ve now reached a peak for time being at 70 cows, a nice comfortable number.”
The Kings attribute some of their initial success to Team Celtic 11, who will reach 14 years of age in March 2025 and is still in his working clothes. “He definitely put us on the map.” His sons include Wolfstar Jackaroo at 18,000gns, Wolfstar Fearless at 14,000gns, Wolfstar Flying Scotsman 17,000gns and Wolfstar Gold Digger at 15,000gns.
18,000gns Wolfstar Jackaroo
While a small selection of bulls are traded through the Stirling ring, the vast majority are sold to local suckler producers having been promoted on Facebook and word of mouth from repeat customers. “We outwinter these bulls on forage diets to challenge the genetics and we like prospect customers to see them in commercial conditions and in their working clothes.”
The Kings also privately trade a quantity of quality pedigree breeding females each year, some of which have gone to start up herds.
Ross repeatedly says their success is also down to adopting a commercial strategy for trait selection, as well as for management purposes, accompanied by a strict culling policy. “We don’t keep any calves for breeding unless they show plenty vigour. We also have a very strict culling policy for feet, udders and temperament; we try to take on issues before they happen.
“When looking for a bull we pay attention to Breedplan data and select according to the trait required to improve specific performance for example growth rate, back fat and ease of calving, but first and foremost he has to appeal to the eye and then we make sure he will suit our herd and what it requires at the time.”
The latest addition to Wolfstar’s genetic mix is Hiltonstown Matrix secured in Stirling 2023 for 20,000gns. He was in the breed’s top 5% for 400 and 600 day growth with a +7 figure for maternal (milk). “While he carries very balanced performance figures, he was one of those bulls that stood out on inspection with plenty of length, tremendous fleshing qualities, and just full of flash and style.”
Ross King is also using some of the latest technology to take the pedigree herd to the next level. “We introduced In-Vitro Embryo Production (IVP) a few years ago to enable us to select specific sires to cross with some of our best breeding females to produce high genetic merit progeny for potential sale. IVP also has the potential to provide us with more choice of homebred bulls to retain for breeding purposes. Equally important, we use the service as an insurance policy – if anything happened to wipe out the herd, for example an FMD outbreak then we could rest assured we had sufficient embryos in the tank to re-establish the herd.”
Looking to the future, Ross says: “We want to continue to breed in demand bulls in commercial conditions that will not only keep our customers returning, but also attract new ones keen to improve their herd’s commercial performance and ultimately towards a more sustainable, profitable beef enterprise.”
Combined pedigree and commercial herds performance
24 months age at first calving
95% heifer scan
98% cow scan
90% calving within the first two cycles
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