THE first North Sheep event in Cumbria for 10 years has been hailed a major success after attracting an estimated10,000 visitors.

Forty-six breed societies were represented and there were 220 trade stands at the industry showcase, run by the National Sheep Association (NSA).

The event, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for sheep farming, was hosted by Neil and Sally Marston at Millstone Moor Farm, Cockermouth.

NSA president, the Duke of Montrose, described North Sheep 2015 as 'a showcase for science and innovation to help move their flocks forward'.

He presented the prestigious George Hedley Memorial Award for services to the sheep industry to Lancashire farmer David Croston.

Also thanked for his support was John Geldard, former NSA chairman, who was presented with a handmade walking stick.

North Sheep also hosted the 2015 Young Shepherd of the Year contest, sponsored by Newton Rigg and Askham Bryan Colleges and open to young farmers under 26, which was won by Robert Walker, 21, from Brennand Farm near Clitheroe. Runner up was Matthew Emmet from Wythop Hall Farm near Cockermouth.

North Sheep also hosted a challenging team sheep-shearing competition, sponsored by British Wool Marketing Board and held by Mark Fox and the Lakeland Shearers. Winners were Yorkshire, with Northumberland in second place and Cumbria in third.

NSA northern region chairman Greg Dalton said: “NSA North Sheep is a long established event which supports the industry at a time when varying amounts of volatility due to currency and other factors is affecting farmers. The event is a great opportunity for people to see exactly what the NSA are doing to support of the industry and to talk to representatives and officials at the highest levels.”

Event organiser Julie Sedgewick said: “We absolutely delighted that the sun shone and with the high number of visitors. It is a real pleasure to bring the show to Cumbria, for the first time in 10 years. This is one of the most famous sheep producing areas in the UK. People were able to get together to discuss issues and what makes for successful farming. The seminars throughout the day also focused on key areas in the industry.”

Talks on CAP and countryside stewardship were delivered by Will Cockbain, Natural England, David Morley, H & H environmental advisor, and Alan Alderson, farmer and Swaledale breeder. Sheep health issues were addressed by Philip Skuce and Stewart Burgess, both of Moredun, and Joe Henry of Alnorthumbria Vets. And the outlook for the sheep industry's future was assessed by NSA chief executive Phil Stocker, Norman Bagley, of AIMS, and Tom Hind, head of agriculture for Tesco.