New chairman of sheep group named

Mr Watson, a keen supporter of sheep genetics and the next generation of producers, is also the chairman of NSA North Sheep 2013, to be held at Crimplehead Farm, Beckwithshaw, Harrogate, on June 5. Mr Lawn said he’d had a great two years as chairman, met a lot of great people and been to places he never thought he would.

He said he’d gained a greater appreciation of the sheep sector, including the need to promote sheep as having a low carbon footprint because they graze permanent pasture, and the need to protect trade opportunities, even if it meant embracing the necessary evil of EID. He finished his term by thanking Mr Watson for being a very supportive vice-chairman and also voicing thanks to Julie Sedgewick (regional manager) and Eddie Eastham (regional treasurer).

These two both remain in their current roles and are joined by Greg Dalton as the region’s new vice-chairman.

Also at the AGM, the TI Allinson Memorial Award for outstanding contribution to the sheep industry in the North of England went to auctioneer Stuart Bell.

Presenting the award to Mr Bell, Mr Lawn said: “Held in high regard as an auctioneer, valuer, adviser, judge and stockman, Stuart has proven his trade by working his way through the industry, gaining the respect of all.”