texel sheep society november 2011 bulletin

British Texel Sheep Society, National Agricultural Centre, Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire, CV8 2LG

Tel: 024 7669 6629, Fax: 024 7669 6472, Email: [email protected]

BulletinFor members of the Texel Sheep Society

November 2011

www.texel.co.uk

“A progressive Society, assisting its

membership to develop a breed that

continues to evolve and meet

the requirements of a modern

and reforming industry”

Latest topics on Society Matters

Performance Recorded Rams show off in style at National Sales

Updates on the latest Breed Development initiatives

Texels lead the way at Eglish fram

International enthusiasm for Texel Genetics

S H E E P S O C I E T Y

www.texel.co.ukS H E E P S O C I E T Y

FeaturingCairness

DeveronvaleGlenside

HaddoKnock

MidlockRascarrelTophill

Record Breaking Highest Priced Texel Female sold at this sale 2010 – 24,000gns!!!

Catalogues from auctioneersHarrison & Hetherington

Borderway MartRosehill, Carlisle, CA1 2RS

Tel: 01228 640924Fax 01228 640921

www.livestock-sales.co.uk

CARLISLE AUCTION MART

CHRISTMAS

CRACKERS

FRIDAY 9th DECEMBER 2011EVENING EVENT Commences at 5.30pm



Royal Show datesRoyal Ulster Show 16 – 18 May

Royal Highland Show 21 – 24 June

Great Yorkshire Show 10 – 12 July

Royal Welsh Show 23 – 26 July

National Sale dates & Judges N.I National 13 - 14 August - G Jones – JGE – ERW Flock

Scottish National 22 – 23 August - K Campbell – CKC – COWAL Flock

Welsh National 24 – 25 August - J McKerrow – MDG – GROUGFOOT Flock

English National 27 – 28 August - S Smith – SJP – PENPARC Flock

NSA Specialist Sheep EventsNSA Eastern Region Winter Fair – Melton Mowbray - 27 January

NSA Scotsheep - Cumnock, Ayrshire - 6 June

NSA South Sheep - Upper Lambourn, Berkshire - 13 June

NSA Sheep Event -The Three Counties Showground,Malvern, Worcs - 4 July

Dates for diary 2012

Contents

Pg 3Welcome and Diary Dates

Pg 4-7 Society Matters

Pg 10-13 Science into Practice

Pg 16-19 Texel Lifestyle

Thank you for renewing your membership of the Society. A committed membership is essential and we value your support that enables us to pursue our charitable aims and be an organisation of National as well as International standing. We are dedicated to the encouragement, promotion and improvement of the breeding of Texel sheep.

A whole host of achievements have been made in 2011; improvements in our financial security, increase of both regional and national promotions as well as developments in our breed strategy, which includes support of various technologies available to members, such as CT scanning.

Of particular importance was the acceptance of a Special Resolution by the membership at our recent AGM. Focusing on a recent voluntary engagement with the Charity Commission, the resolution proposed allowed for changes that are acceptable to the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator. Allowing for the amendment ensures we protect and secure our charitable status for the membership’s future benefit.

Our recent AGM was hosted in conjunction with the Northern Ireland Club, oversubscribed and with in excess of 200 members at the Dinner Dance, was yet another major success, adding to the variety of social occasions and receptions provided for members across the UK during 2011.

The Society Board takes the task of supporting the membership and spending their funds on their behalf very seriously and strives to make improvements each year across its services. 2012 will see promotions expanded as well as support of breed development and young adult initiatives.

Many thanks to those members that allow us to claim gift aid on their subscription fees, if you have not signed up to this government tax break please call our office for further information. Members are also reminded to make use of the 10% discounted fees that are available by allowing for Direct Debits from January 1st 2012. Using the scale of charges to your benefit is also encouraged rather than delaying and paying the price with the higher late notification and registration fees.

Wishing the entire membership the very best.

Yours sincerely

John YatesChief Executive

Welcome

More than meets the eye!

The above barcode or more correctly named QR code or Quick Response code allows readers to use their smart phones to access further information on our services. Download a QR reader app to your smartphone or camera enabled tablet computer, then launch the app and hold the device over the barcode to access the extra content found on our website. Visit the iTunes App store or Android Market to download a QR reader app for free.

While every effort is made to ensure accuracy of the information contained in this publication, no responsibility can be accepted by the Society for any errors or any reliance on the use of information by readers

Front cover: Devon County Show 2011

If you want to offer feedback on Society Promotions [email protected]


The Board of Directors, Chief

Executive and staff at the

Texel office wish all Members

and friends of the Society

a Merry Christmas and

Happy New Year.

SOCIETY MATTERS

North Scotland/Area 1 Director, Bruce Mair, stood down from the Society Board at our AGM on the 29th October 2011 when his 5 year term ended. Bruce has made many valuable contributions to the Society and to the Board. We will miss his constructive input and the tremendous support he has shown over the years.

Areas 1, 4 and 13 results are shown below.

Regional Director Election results

Area 13:Mid Wales & Borders

No.

Roy Hughes 14

Spoiled 0

Graham Meaden

6

Spoiled 0

Total 20

In-Lamb Club Sales November 2011 - January 2012 Thainstone 28 NovemberSkipton 3 December Worcester 3 DecemberCarlisle 9 DecemberHilltown 9 December

Llandovery 16 DecemberWelshpool 19 DecemberChelford 7 January Lanark 7 January

Area 1:North Scotland

No.

Patricia Imlah 23

Spoiled 0

Graeme Knox 29

Spoiled 0

Total 52

Area 4: South West of Scotland & North West of England

Tommy MacTaggart Unopposed

Texel Sponsorship at Primestock shows 2011If you are a Texel Member and have entered one of the following Winter Fairs don’t forget to send the Society your entry details after each eligible event to be considered for reimbursement of entries. The society has the discretion on any reimbursement.

Requests for rebates must be received at the Society office by the 31st March 2011.

Texel Sponsored ShowsCountryside Live22 - 23 OctoberBorderway Agri-Expo28 October English Winter Fair19 - 20 November Scottish Royal Winter Fair23 November Royal Welsh Winter Fair28 - 29 November East of England Smithfield Festival2 - 3 December Northern Ireland Primestock Winter Fair 5 December

Sponsorship Prize Fund £250 - Supreme Champion Carcase(if sired by a Texel)

£125 – Reserve Champion Carcase(if sired by a Texel)

£250 – Supreme Champion Live(if sired by a Texel)

£125 Reserve Champion Live(if sired by a Texel)

£150 towards Texel Show classes

Promotional grants across regional Clubs increased to £9555 for 2011/12The aim of this initiative is to support clubs in targeting promotions for the Texel breed.

Graeme Knox will now represent Area 1

Roy Hughes re-elected to represent Area 13

Tommy MacTaggart, re-elected Unopposed in Area 4



Welcome to thenew Chairman & Vice Chairman

Chairman / President2011 - 2013

Nick TavernorArea 9 – South West EnglandSalocin Flock – TNSTel: 01460 241789

Vice Chairman / Vice President 2011 - 2013

Henry GambleArea 12 – Northern IrelandSpringwell Flock – GRSTel: 02891 270215

Live streaming of Scottish National 2011

The 2011 Scottish National Texel Sale at Lanark saw an unprecedented interest in the breed, with the sale watched live on every Continent following a new initiative which saw the Society stream the sale live on its website. The audience was bolstered worldwide, with three cameras used to capture the highlights as they unfolded during the day.

Commenting on the success of the streaming our Chief Executive said, “Webcams are not new, but we wanted a better quality broadcast that showed the sale at its optimum, so we invested in better technology and professional services”.

“We were not disappointed, members loved it and our web stats showed a massive increase on the previous year with close to 3000 views over the two day event.

Andy Frazier (ex Menithwood flock FAE), from Chauffour in France commented, “I have thoroughly enjoyed the sale broadcast. I pretty much followed every sheep, saw loads

of my old mates and saw plenty of good lambs. Please extend my gratitude to all that provided the service, it was excellent.

Although a bit weird hearing Brian Ross et al over the loud speakers on my French terrace, but I am sure

I can explain my love of Texels to my French neighbours!!”, “Well done, wish I could have been there”.

The live streaming also came in handy for Marcio Aguinsky enabling him to review the top crop of the breed, prior to new exports to Brazil.

Overall website traffic in August also hit new heights, with page views totalling 20,908 from

8252 unique visitors. For a small business such as ours these are great traffic figures and demonstrate the worldwide appeal of the British Texel.

The streaming was well received and was a great way of extending the sale to those members that didn’t have time to get to the sale, allowing them to still be able to share some of the sale experience.

Departing Chairmans round up

At the 2011 AGM and social weekend held in Belfast Gordon Gray’s term as Chairman came to a close. Of his time as Chairman he commented “Being Chairman and President of the Society has been an enormous privilege for me which wouldn’t have been possible without the support of my family, notably my wife Christine and son David to whom I give my sincere thanks”.

“A huge thanks also to John our CEO for his support and advice over the last two years, it has been a pleasure and privilege to have worked alongside him, and to my minder Gil and the rest of the office staff, many thanks from myself and on behalf of the membership for all you do for us and the very pleasant manner in which you carry it out”.

“Lastly, I’d like to thank my fellow Board members who have guided and supported me during my term giving up their time freely”.

On behalf of the Society we offer our thanks to Gordon Gray for his hard work and dedication to the breed and the membership. Pleasingly he will continue to serve on the Board of Directors representing the South East of Scotland for a wee while yet!

Gordon Gray receiving his Chairman’s award

Twww.texel.co.uk

S H E E P S O C I E T Y

SOCIETY MATTERS

Welcome to our 150 new members. helping to maintain a 2,000 strong Membership during 2011.

2012 BirthNotifications start with

To see the short videos of the Texel breed either SCAN HERE (How? See page 3) or visit www.youtube.com/TexelSheepSociety

More videos will be added during 2012.

To receive the latest information subscribe by visitingwww.texel.co.uk and click on mailing list

The biannual “Presidents award” is presented by the Society President and Chairman to an individual that in the Boards opinion has dedicated a significant amount of time and support to the benefit of the Society and the breed.

This was gracefully received by Robbie Mulligan at the recent AGM held in Northern Ireland.

Presidents Award goes to Robbie Mulligan (Brague)

Bill John – February 2011Bill John passed away earlier this year after a short illness. Bill was a very loyal and supportive member of the Society and South Wales club, ever present at club meetings and also keen to support ideas for promoting the Texel breed.

He will probably be most remembered as the inspector of rams at the NSA Ram Sale at Builth Wells, a voluntary role which he took on with great precision and good humour. Bill is survived by his wife, Margaret and family.

Glyn Pierce – May 2011Glyn founded the ‘Glynwen’ flock of Texels over 20 years ago together with his late wife Olwen, and the Prefix is an amalgamation of their two names. Glyn was a very popular and valuable member of the Ruthin Texel club, being a past Chairman, and also a staunch supporter of everything and anything to do with Texels. Glyn had an easy going, and unassuming character, and was blessed with a positive attitude, which helped him with his fight against cancer, which he unfortunately lost on Saturday May 7th. Glyn had many friends far and wide, and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

John Kingsley-Heath – May 2011John was a committee member and very committed to the Texel Sheep Society having purchased some 100 Texels from the Netherlands in the 1970’s. They were quarantined in the old Plymouth skate board park before being sold on throughout the country. John is survived by his wife Sue and three sons.

David Arkley – November 2011David founded the “Cauldcoats” flock in 1983, achieving many successes of which the highlight was the sale of gimmer, Cauldcoats AJC09139 for 3,800gns at the 2010 Texel Sheep Society AGM & Social weekend Scottish Club 25th Anniversary Auction. David was employed as assistant manager of the Dalmeny estate for nearly 30 years and was an avid supporter of local shows. As a past Chairman of the Scottish Club 2007-08, he was a true ambassador of the breed. He will be remembered for his dedication to the industry and the support of many members. He will be sadly missed by all that were privileged to meet him.

Our deepest sympathy has been passed to the families.Full obituaries are available @ www.texel.co.uk

Top prices at theNational Sales

Northern Ireland - Ballymena - 9000gns - Fairywater Superstar - FAO1100161 - Andrew FyffeIndex 248

Scotland -Lanark - 46000gns Foyle View Superstar

SMV1100017 - Michael Smyth - Index 186

Wales -Welshpool - 4200gns - Caereinion Ronaldo -

PEC1000033 - C E Pryce - Index 257

England – Worcester – 3500gns - for Milnbank Shoot the Sherriff - LYM1100393 - Robbie WilsonIndex 236



Congratulations go to John Forsyth (Glenside), who has won the ‘Sire of the Year’ 2011 trophy with the three top sons of Glenside Razzle Dazzle, (FPG1000055).

Razzle Dazzle is jointly owned by four Aberdeenshire flocks, Milnbank, Deveronvale,

Insch and Strathbogie, he made a tremendous impact this year on all four flocks and with an index of 305 is in the Top 5% of the breeds Performance Recording evaluation.

The runner up was the Irish born Straidarran Ranger (WXS1000004), whose three top sons included the 46,000 Foyle View Superstar (SMV1100017) who topped the Lanark National sale.

Michael Smyth (Foyle View), the seventeen year old breeder of Superstar, will undoubtedly have provided inspiration to many young breeders by proving that with good management you can reach the top with a limited budget.

Another relatively young breeder who deserves a mention is Kerr Jarvie (Duncryne) who bred Duncryne Ringmaster, (JRV1000001, first prize 2010 Lanark Novice Lamb), which has bred very well in the Forkins flock.

A feature of the “Top 10” table (available at www.texel.co.uk) is the wide price range of the rams involved, proving that modestly priced rams, if correctly mated, can compete with the very expensive, mainly syndicated rams, which can include breeding disappointments. In modern Texel breeding there is a rapid generation turnover with no fewer than 9 out of the “top 10” rams being sired by 1st or 2nd season sires.

The exception is Castlecairn Red Arrow, (RNA1000080) who has bred very well in John Mellin’s Hull House flock. His sire was Glenside Forsyth, (FPG99099) of the 1998 generation whose use 10 years ago became limited due to Scrapie Genotyping, as he was a group 3.

Further flocks whose stud rams feature in the “Top 10” table, and who also deserve congratulations include Procters, who’s stud ram, Haddo Ringleader (KWJ1000063), produced leading prices at all three mainland Society National Sales, while the Cowal flock produced the Lanark Supreme Champion with a son of Knock Reebock, (HAK1000041).

A final noteworthy point is that top genetics can be purchased at alternative venues apart from the Scottish Premier Sale at Lanark, although the majority of rams featured did emerge from Lanark others were purchased at Carlisle, Dungannon and Ruthin.

Sire of the year “Top 10” report

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0005

5 –

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SOCIETY MATTERS


The 2011 National Texel sales once again proved the strength in depth crucially demonstrating the continuing commercial appeal of the breed.

It is the ability of the Texel to combine strong type with exceptional performance which has drawn ever increasing numbers of commercial producers to the breed.

Such is the exceptional marrying of breed type with performance that at this year’s Ballymena, Lanark, Welshpool and Worcester National Society sales commercial buyers and breeders rubbed shoulders creating a strong demand for performance recorded lambs.

These sheep also commanded high places in the breed championships and also went on to record some of the highest prices too.

Meanwhile, at Kelso, one of Europe’s largest commercial ram sales, it was a

Texel in the top 1% of the breed which sold for the day’s highest price of any breed. Grey Peel Rambo HMF1000004, Index 354 with a 15,000gns bid for the winner of the Performance Recorded Texel show from Maurice Hardy-Bishop.

“The dominance of high index Signet recorded sheep at these major Texel sales is unprecedented,” said Samuel Boon, EBLEX breeding specialist.

It shows that when judging criteria focus on growth and carcase traits the sensible use of performance records can assist in the identification of breeding lines that excel in the show ring.

There has been a 27% increase in the number of Texel flocks performance recording with Signet this year and a lot of flocks sent their highest index breeding stock out to these early sales.

The strong demand for recorded rams at these sales was a clear sign that breeders recognise the advantages of buying stock rams with known levels of genetic potential and invested believing that performance recording was going to become even more important in the years to come.

The continuing increase in performance recording by Texel breeders bodes well for the future of the breed, where both style, functional type and performance are now clearly being achieved. This is a credit to the Society and the breeders who have invested in this technology.

Our commercial customers are becoming ever more particular about the rams they buy and our breeders are responding by providing them with sheep with

exceptional carcass qualities backed by performance figures which continue to deliver and improve year on year. Reliability of past purchases adds to the confidence with which commercial producers can use performance recorded figures for Texels.

The Texel breed has the largest population of recorded females of any breed in the UK, which along with the whole breed evaluations and the PRT Committee within the Society structure make for valuable resources for the breed’s future development.

Performance Recorded rams show off in style at majorTexel Sales

Scottish National sale overall champion Cowal Saltire CKC 1100271 14,000gns, with an Index of 428 (Top 1%)

Welsh National sale overall champion Procters Santander PFD 1101004 2100gns, with an Index of 311 (Top 5%)

English National sale overall champion Cambwell Stewart - LTC1100528 3400gns with an Index of 313 (Top 5%)

Northern Ireland National sale reserve overall champion Mullan Supremacy HBN1100274 – 4400gns with an index of 201

SCIENCE INTO PRACTICE

“The Texel breed has the largest population of recorded females of any breed in the UK”



Last season saw a major increase in the number of Texel flocks involved in performance recording. Signet recorded rams with high indexes (and hence high EBVs) dominated many of the pre-sale classes.

Several flocks that were recording for the first time had a number of lambs whose overall genetic merit placed them comfortably in the Top 10% of the breed. These lambs featured heavily within the top draw of lambs taken to National Sales.

Index Catalogued SoldProportion

sold vs. number

entered

Average price

Top 1% 14 14 100.0% £1,451

Top 5% 31 26 83.9% £1,011

Top 10% 23 20 87.0% £934

Top 25% 20 14 70.0% £601

Above average 8 7 87.5% £420

Below average 13 4 30.8% £612


sold vs. number

entered

Average price

Top 1% 30 22 73.3% £3,817

Top 5% 67 51 76.1% £2,341

Top 10% 35 18 51.4% £2,378

Top 25% 35 18 51.4% £1,368




sold vs. number

entered

Average price

Top 1% 3 1 33.3% £1,365

Top 5% 19 17 89.5% £850

Top 10% 22 19 86.4% £745

Top 25% 24 16 66.7% £674



An analysis of sale prices across three of the major pedigree sales indicates some important trends:

• A high proportion of the recorded lambs entered had indexes in the Top 10% of the breed• High index lambs achieved a premium over those with lower indexes• A higher proportion of the high index lambs catalogued were sold• The high clearance rate for high index lambs indicates a commercial, as well as a pedigree demand. • Commercial producers were more willing to invest in animals with an independent assessment of their genetic merit at the point of sale.

These trends closely mirror sale trends observed at major bull sales over the last decade – where a demand for figures from the commercial producer has influenced pedigree purchasing decisions and increased the number of bulls sold with performance records.

Many of the best high index rams were purchased as stock rams to go into flocks that are already performance recording – this bodes extremely well for the future of the breed.

English National Texel Sale 2011 – Sales data for recorded ram lambs

Scottish National Texel Sale 2011 – Sales data for recorded ram lambs

Welsh National Texel Sale 2011 – Sales data for recorded ram lambs

The analysis of sale prices doesn’t take into account prices obtained for substitute lambs

Strong demand for Signet recorded Texel rams


UK Texels link with NZ researchers

UK Texel Breeders and SAC have linked up with Ovita funded AgResearch scientists in an attempt to get genomic selection underway in the Texel breed. This is where a DNA sample can be used to directly estimate breeding values for a trait of interest. Typically it needs large numbers of well recorded animals genotyped to “train” the prediction equations. The best animals are progeny tested sires. New Zealand is unique in that they have trained their prediction equations on several closely related breeds and crosses derived from the UK. The Texel is an important meat breed in both UK and New Zealand but is also widely used as a component of maternal composites in New Zealand and is also not that distantly related to the existing NZ breeds. Both countries have also recorded similar traits. However, the challenge for both countries is to obtain sufficient Texel animals with highly accurate breeding values so as to extend the prediction equations to Texels. It is hoped that by combining datasets more robust predictions for both countries can be achieved. To date close to 300 progeny tested sires have been sampled from the UK and are now being added to a data set of around 10,000 tested NZ animals of which several hundred are purebred Texels and in excess of 1000 have some proportion of Texel.

Thank you to all Members that participated in the above project. Your time and support in this valuable research is appreciated.

Factoid

Interestingly the Texel breed will be the reference point for all global genome sequencing in sheep. The research is based on two separate sheep, one male from the Roslin farm in Edinburgh, a pure Texel, and remarkably a Texel in China, although its origin is still unknown to us. It is the Texel breed that is the reference point for genome sequencing in the species and all subsequent sheep genomics research will be based around what is found in the Texel breed.

ag research S A C

SCIENCE INTO PRACTICE

At the October Board meeting held in Belfast prior to the Societies successful AGM. The thirteen Regional Directors voted unanimously to create a dedicated fund of £100,000 to support future Research & Development. Created solely from the Society Cash reserves the dedicated fund will act as a launch pad for innovation for the development for the breed.

This is a major commitment from the Board and will help secure the breeds’ future. The fund will be used for a variety of projects, of which the Breed Development Committee are tasked with providing suitable initiatives as recommendations for the full Board, under the Chairmanship of Aubrey Andrews ,who also Chairs the Societies PRT Committee who act on behalf of the expanding membership of Signet Recorded Texel Breeders .

Aubrey Andrews stated “this is fantastic news and I’m sure will act as a launch pad for new projects over the coming years. The Society has always been progressive and this decision should add confidence to the entire membership as we make the most of new opportunities.”

John Yates added “The Board has been instrumental with improving the Societies financial stability over the past three years, whilst increasing promotions of the breed. We have the resources, confidence and foresight to ensure that the Society is best placed to develop future research capacity for the breed.”

We currently have in excess of 10,000 lambs produced per annum that are fully performance recorded, this is a 19.5% increase over the past 3 years and is expected to grow further in 2012, add the major increase in CT scanning, supported financially for the first time by

the Society, that saw a colossal 104% increase to 387 lambs when compared to last year, the breeds development is in very safe hands.

The memberships aim to engage with the latest technology is important, the Society will use its resources to ensure new technologies are available to the general membership for the breeds’ development. This fund will assist both the membership and the Society to reap many benefits to secure the breeds future.

Sam Boon EBLEX supported the importance of the growth of recorded animals in a breeds population, “Imagine selecting the best sheep from a flock of over 10,000 weight recorded lambs, with the added benefits of the latest CT scanning technology factored in – the potential to enhance the genetic performance of the Texel breed is absolutely massive.”

Society Board create £100,000 dedicated fund to assist in the Texel Breeds Research and Development strategy.



The Society support of CT scanning has helped to increase CT scanning in the Texel breed with a colossal 91% growth. The £3500 development fund dedicated to expanding the use of CT Scanning has realised a healthy return, with 198 lambs scanned in 2010 now rising to 378 in 2011• Recorded Flocks account for in excess of 10,000 birth notifications with the Society per year.• Prominent and important sires continue to be identified through the system.

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Total

Texel 353 0 107 148 204 137 124 83 89 108 198 1551

Suffolk 353 0 59 100 156 168 107 36 27 128 98 1232

Charollais 129 0 0 58 122 92 134 100 20 107 117 879

HampshireDown

30 0 0 25 25 0 46 21 0 36 27 210

Meatlinc 57 0 20 25 30 26 0 0 28 24 0 210

Beltex 50 34 20 104

Total per year

922 0 186 356 537 423 411 240 214 437 460 4186

• National sale show champions were identified from PRT Recorded classes, providing evidence that type and performance are being delivered by the Texel breed evaluation.• CT Scanning is proven to improve the accuracy of all phenotypic records collected in the Texel breed database. • CT Scanning is now at a record high for the breed, supported by Society and levy funds, 378 lambs were scanned in 2011, which is the highest of any breed since 2000.

• CT Scanning was developed by SAC in conjunction with Texel Sire Reference Scheme. This technology is now at the forefront of breed research as it has the ability to make many measurements across the entire carcase of the live animal. Further strengthening accuracies and performance predictions.

CT scanning adds value to Texel Evaluations

The Texel Society have been awarded a £5,000 KTN Spark Award for research into Mastitis in sheep. This work will make use of previous studies supported by the Texel Society that concluded that there was a dearth of information on the causes of mastitis and likely heritable traits linked to under health in ewes Connington (2005). Using parallels with cattle, Connington (2005) estimated that mastitis was likely to be costing the Texel breed alone approximately £2.7 million per annum. This recent award will allow the Texel Society to collaborate with leading scientists at the University of Warwick, who have over the past 3 years researched into factors associated with subclinical mastitis and poor lamb growth in meat sheep, in a separate project funded by EBLEX.

One area studied was the shape of the udder and location of teats. A key finding was that poor udder and teat shape and conformation were associated with• Low lamb growth rate• Increased levels of subclinical mastitis (measured by Somatic cell count - SCC)• Occurrence of teat lesions Warwick University technicians will start this newly funded project in May 2012, working with a group of Texel breeders who are already recording occurrence of mastitis in their ewes. Using these well characterised flocks of known pedigree will strengthen the likelihood of detecting a statistical association if it is truly present.

Previous researchers have been able to detect an association between mastitis risk and udder conformation and a strong

genetic correlation between lactation somatic cell score and udder traits by analysing phenotypic and genetic data in dairy sheep. The aim is to develop the repeatability of a scoring system by rescoring a random a selection of ewes from a flock. Concluding if udder conformation is heritable and linked to families with higher levels of mastitis in Texel sheep. Additional separate PhD research, funded by Eblex is also focusing on• Determining the organisms and pathways of infection leading to mastitis in sheep.• The bacterial ecology of the ruminant udder with particular reference to ewes

Texels awarded £5,000 research fund on Mastitis in sheep.


Glou

cest

er &

Bo

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Cou

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Club

Gloucester & Border Counties ClubAnnual “Christmas Present” In-Lamb Gimmer and

Ewe Lamb Show & Sale

Saturday 3rd December 2011 at Worcester Market For Schedules, Catalogues and further information Tel: McCartneys on

01905 769770or visit the website

www.mccartneys.co.uk

The Twilight Texel SaleFriday 2nd December 2011

At 6.00pm in Borderway Mart, Carlisle

Tel: 01228 406 230

In-Lamb Gimmer Sale

From the Flocks of

ALWENT, ARKLE, BALTIER, BEAUTRY, COURTHILL, DOUGANHILL, FACHELL,

HALTCLIFFE, HULL HOUSE, LOOSEBEARE, PENPARC, PROCTERS & THACKA



Ballynahone I Cherryvale Clougher I Forkins I TamnamoneySaturday 17th December 12.30pm

Ballymena Mart Catalogues & Enquiries Tel: 028 256 33470 Special Guest Consignment STRAIDARREN & BRAEHEAD

NORTHERN STARS

Thursday 29th December 2011Hilltown Livestock Mart

BT34 5YN. T:02840630287Export sale of in lamb pedigree Females and Embryos

Approximately 100 gimmers for sale

Blackstown Fairmount MullanSpringwell Tullagh

Service sires include:

Crosskirk Superstar, Derryvore Ranger, Fairywater Superstar, Humeston Starbuck, Springhill Superman and Strathbogie Stud

Two guest consignors: Dunore and Kiltariff

For Further Details Contact Richard Beattie

Tel: 07984694616

NORTHERN LIGHTS

Blackstown Sportsman 5200gns

Tullagh Saracen 14000gns


Nicola introduced electronic tagging to her sheep enterprise a number of years ago, and now counts it as one of the single most valuable tools on the farm.

“We are able to record a full history of each and every ewe whether it be their performance or medical data. This then greatly assists in the selection of replacements for the flock. It has given us a real insight as to how well our Texel sired stock is

performing, and consolidates our view that they are the number one sire.” Nicola explains.

“Further cost reductions have also been made by studying the worm count within our flock in conjunction with Parklands Veterinary Practice. We have discovered that we no longer need to administer worming product to all of the sheep due to a lower than expected worm count. This saves money and has the added advantage of reducing product build up and resistance within the sheep flock.”

Nicola has her finger on the pulse in terms of how to maximise profits on her farm, and is convinced that Texel is without question a big part of this. “Our lambs are consistently good, and we can sell at a premium whether for killing or breeding.”

Nicola Beavers is widely regarded as a leading Northern Irish farmer in both the sheep and poultry sectors with her attention to detail setting her apart from the crowd.

Her sheep flock consists of 280-300 commercial ewes comprising mostly of Texel and Kerryhill x females all bred on the farm. Nicola has found that this is without doubt one of the best performing female blends with strong durable ewes standing the test of time. Their ability to produce a superior lamb and rear it well makes Texel a firm favourite on this county Tyrone farm.

Lambing takes place from mid January onwards with ewes receiving a small amount of concentrate prior to this. Weather permitting all young lambs accompanies their mothers outside within 24 to 48 hours. The Texel cross ewe is producing a lambing percentage of around 185%.

Lambs do not require creep feeding but instead there is a focus on good grassland management thus reducing farm overheads. Recent times have seen a trend of lambs being sold through the live ring at heavier weights of 23-24 kilos. This winning formula has seen a lift in returns of around £10 per lamb. Ewe lambs that are not being retained for flock replacements are readily snapped up by repeat customers sourcing breeding stock.

Texel’s Lead the Way on Eglish Farm

TEXEL LIFESTYLE

Nicola Beavers and daughter Nicole are convinced that Texel is the most versatile and successful sire available.

Texel is used heavily on the Beavers farm at Eglish, with fierce demand for both fat lambs and breeding stock each year.



Wellknown livestock photographer Dougie Low brings the shutter down for the final time on 31st.August 2011 after a career spanning 55 years,since the day he started as an assistant photographer on “The

Baa-rmy - The million pound sheep

Only 1,000 Dolan sheep exist in the world, according to breeders, and their extraordinary features have made them the latest collectors’ item for ultra-rich Chinese. The Dolan breed has a distinctive curved nose, as well as long floppy ears. Originally bred from sheep in Kashgar to grow quickly and to yield more meat, the breed has since become ornamental.

“The price depends on the pedigree,” states breeder Mr Liu. “The darker the fleece, the better. The bigger the ears the better. The more curved the face, the better, like an eagle’s beak. The best ones have a dark body and white tail.” He added that a Dolan can reach maturity, and weigh some 200lbs, after just six months.

The most valuable sheep is a six-year-old owned by Majid Abdul Reyim, a breeder in Kashgar. Mr Reyim said he had received offers of 14 million yuan (£1.4 million) for it, but had not yet succumbed to a sale.”That sheep is the grandfather of all the best pedigree Dolans in the region,” said Mr Liu. “I have one of its grandsons and that one is worth some six million yuan. I have 19 in total and I feed them dates and walnuts as well as grass. Dolan breeders said that several families often clubbed together to buy a single sheep as an investment and then charge for its breeding rights.

The top sheep can command fees of up to 300,000 yuan per dose of semen. “I sold all my other regular sheep last year, around 320 of them, and could not raise enough money for just one Dolan with that,” said Mr Liu. “I started breeding Dolans in 2009, buying a couple for 25,000 yuan. The next year, I had an offer of 250,000 yuan for them, and the price keeps rising”.

Scottish Farmer”. Travelling the country by bus and train to events, he learnt his trade over the next six years. The art of livestock portraiture was in an era of ‘GREATS’ at that time and the skill was picked up from the likes of Sandy Cowper, Perth, Andrew Reid of Wishaw, Brown of Lanark, Hammonds of Hereford and his boss at the ‘SF’. They were ‘The Masters’ of the moment, but had time to give constructive tips, tricks and advice to the new generation learning the art. Having seen many changes in agriculture over this period, including the introduction of continental breeds like Charolais, Limousin, Holstein cattle and Charollais and Texel sheep which are now established breeds in the UK.

He has travelled thousands of miles and met many interesting people and made many friends, the circle is now complete, and is now settled in Thirsk with his new partner Marjorie.

Generations have crept in over time, as he has been reminded lately -when being greeted at shows and sales by some youngsters who would say “My Gran & Grampa know you”, it could even be “Great”-------enough said ! Dougie offers thanks to all clients and friends over the years and says “There are lots of great memories”.

“It has been a pleasure knowing and working with you all”

Fifty five and out - Dougie retires

Increasing confidenceAccording to a survey by the National Farmers Union, some 53% of beef and sheep farmers are positive for the future, up from 24% a year ago. !

Ian HepburnNorthhouse Texel

For Sale - Small flock of 35 Pedigree registered Texel Sheep in regular ages. Signet Recorded.

Regularly produce Shearlings in top 10% of breed. A I’d on

11/10/11 to Knock Papoose - 1st Prize Shearling ram RHAS 2010. Sire of Ram Lambs to 10,500gnsShearlings to 3,500gns. A ram

with exceptional length and skin.Ewe Lambs & Tup Lambs

also available.Tel: 07703 459840

Email: [email protected]

NORTHHOUSE

FLOCK

PRIVATE

sale

NORTHHOUSE

FLOCK

PRIVATE

sale


A surge in demand from sheep breeders across the globe for quality genetics backed by performance recording has seen British Texel breeders secure a number of significant export deals so far in 2011.

One of the most significant exports came early in the year, with a large scale export of semen to Brazil, with this pioneering export followed up with representation by the Society at a leading Agricultural event in Port Alegre, Rio Grand Du Sol in the southern tip of Brazil.

One of the key Brazilian breeders behind the shipment was Marcio Auguinsky who says there has been unprecedented demand for British Texels following the initial imports earlier this year. “Brazilian Texel ewes inseminated to the first consignment are just starting to lamb. Breeders have been impressed with both fertility rates of the semen and the quality of the lambs, the vigour and fleshiness of the lambs is outstanding.”

As a result of this initial success the Society expects a second shipment to follow in early 2012. Other exports have seen shipments of live animals heading to Romania, Bulgaria, Germany, Switzerland and Holland along with semen exported successfully to Norway.

Meanwhile at home in the UK the Society has hosted a number of inward missions from European countries, including France, Germany and Switzerland.

First among these was a mixed group of German and Swiss breeders which visited

TEXEL LIFESTYLE

British Texel genetics in demand from sheep breeders worldwide

flocks across Northern England as well as heading to NSA North Sheep. Speaking on behalf of the group, Heinz Pluss a Swiss Texel Breeder who began importing British Texels three years ago from Ian Murrays Glenway flock, said the British Texel progeny in his flock were creating considerable interest both in Switzerland and among close neighbours on the German border.”

Then in June another German group visited flocks across the Scottish Borders as well as viewing the sheep on show at the Royal Highland Show. And in September, a brace of German groups visited the UK, with the first group heading to the Solway and Tyne Texel Club Sale at Carlisle.

The second group headed to the south of the UK and visited flocks in Kent and Sussex, including the Wealden flock of Tim Healy and later the Colwood and High Weald flocks owned by Trinidad Investment. Those visitors who are breeding Texels themselves were impressed by the power, length and uniformity of the rams in both flocks.

The freedom with which UK flocks can determine their own breeding strategy left the Germans in disbelief: for them it is unthinkable that breeders themselves

decide on their breeding policy. Three specialist advisors from the provincial breed society, which covers all breeds, assesses every ram used for breeding and no ram may be used for pedigree breeding unless it has been judged and achieved a minimum standard.

Adding to the European interest was a delegation of French breeders which headed to the Scottish National Sale at Lanark, taking in visits to five flocks at the same time.

Society chairman Gordon Gray of the Ettrick flock said the visit had been one of the biggest highlights of his time as chairman. “Their enthusiasm was evident for all to see and I’m sure it won’t be long before we see exports of British Texels back to France. The French group has already made orders for both live animals and semen and are extremely keen to include our Texels in their progeny test evaluations”.

The recent export success has been the culmination of a successful promotional campaign across the UK and Europe over the last three years. “Attracting and supporting inward missions is a major objective for the Society and we are delighted that breeders are reaping the rewards as we continue to build business relationships across many international borders.”

“Their enthusiasm was evident for allto see”

German visitors visit Trinidad Investments’ Colwood and High Weald flocks, West Sussex



Signet Performance RecordingAdding Value to the Best Texel Breeding

Top 10% onTexel Index

TheRest

Averageprice (£) Sold

Averageprice (£) Sold

Extra/ ram

ScottishNational £2,705 91 £2,228 278 £477EnglishNational £1,088 60 £780 130 £308WelshNational £810 37 £598 78 £212

* Texel ram lamb prices (2011)

For more informationTel 0247 647 8829Email [email protected]

French delegation head “back to the future”

Chairman and President, Gordon Gray, Chief Executive John Yates, Perry Christophe, OSON President, Jean –Paul Camus and Technical Director, Yves Lemaire,.

Following a visit to the Paris International Agricultural show where British Texel promotions assisted the French team at the “L’Agneau St George stand”, the British brand that Eblex support for the promotion of English lamb, a personal invite was issued by the British Texel Chairman Gordon Gray and Chief Executive, John Yates to OSON - “organisation de sélection ovine du Nord”. It has government accreditation as the selection organisation of both the French Texel and Ille De France breeds. A delegation of 18 French breeders attended the Scottish National Sale and a tour of flocks in August this year.

SHROPSHIRE & BORDERS CLUB

Sale of In-Lamb FemalesOn Monday 19th December 2011

At Welshpool Livestock Market

Call Welshpool Livestock Sales

On 01938 553 438

1st Jan - 15th

April

in Year of Birth

16th April -

15th June

in Year of Birth

16th June -

31st Dec

in Year of Birth

1st January following

Year of Birth Onwards

Method D/D Cheque D/D Cheque D/D Cheque D/D Cheque

Online/Tel/Paper £1.60

(£1.92

inc VAT)

£1.76

(£2.11

inc VAT)

£1.80

(£2.16

inc VAT)

£1.98

(£2.38

inc VAT)

£10.00

(£12.00

inc VAT)

£11.00

(£13.20

inc VAT)

£100

(£120.00

inc VAT)

£110

£132.00

inc VAT

2012 Male and Female Birth Notifications

FEES FOR 2012This Notice supersedes all previous notices of costs and overrides any printed material which you may have in your possession.

Birth Notification Fees take effect for all 2012 born lambs and all other fees from 1st January 2012.

By 15th June in

Year of Birth

(YOB)

16th June YOB -

31st July in year

following YOB

1st August year

following YOB onwards

Method D/D Cheque D/D Cheque D/D Cheque


(£6.30 inc

VAT)

£5.78

(£6.94 inc

VAT)

£5.70

(£6.84 inc

VAT)

£6.27

(£7.52 inc

VAT)

£8.50

(£10.20 inc

VAT)

£ 9.35

(£11.22 inc

VAT)

Female Registrations and Import Registrations (having previously been birth notified)

Method D/D Cheque


(£31.50

inc VAT)

£28.88

(£34.66

inc VAT)

Male Registrations and Import Registrations (having previously been birth notified)

Method D/D Cheque


(£12.00

inc VAT)

£11.00

(£13.20

inc VAT)

Transfers (only fully registered sheep can be transferred)

Terms of Membership(Please note Adult fees will now only be accepted by Direct Debit payment)

AdultJoining Fee - £60.00 (Inc VAT) Payable nowAnnual Subscription fee - £54.21 (Inc VAT) Payable nowJuniorJoining Fee - FreeAnnual Subscription fee - £27.11 (inc VAT) Payable now

Apply to pay by Direct Debit and save 10% when compared to the Cheque fees.(not including Membership & Subscription fees).

The VAT Inclusive prices include VAT at 20% and may be adjusted at any time.


texel sheep society november 2011 bulletin

Documents

texel sheep societynovember

breeding of texel sheep

national salesupdates

organisation of national

national promotions

pm british texel sheep

national agricultural

texel lifestylethank