AFTER a year off due to the Covid-19 pandemic, NFU Cymru and NFU Mutual are again on the lookout to find a ‘Livestock Champion’ working within the agricultural industry in Wales.

Looking for its seventh winner, the Welsh Livestock Champion of the Year Award seeks to spotlight dedicated, committed and enthusiastic livestock persons from all across Wales. The award winner will receive a top prize of £500 and a Welsh Royal Crystal trophy.

Wyn Evans, Chairman of NFU Cymru’s Livestock Board, who will judge on behalf of NFU Cymru, said: “Here in Wales we have some of the best quality beef and sheep in the world, produced to the highest animal health and welfare standards.

"Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, farmers across the country have continued to rear their animals to these high standards and ensure the nation remains fed during unprecedented times. This award aims to celebrate excellence amongst Welsh livestock producers.

“We want to recognise the key role an exceptional livestock person can make to a livestock farm, and to the Welsh livestock industry as a whole. Potential winners will be judged on their management of the flock/herd, their animal health planning, breeding programme, their stock handling skills, how they incorporate health and safety into their day-to-day activities on-farm and their vision for the future of the industry.”

Mike Thomas, Builth Wells Group Secretary who will be judging the award on behalf of NFU Mutual said: “The quality of the stockmanship is a major factor in determining the success of any livestock business. We have some superb stockpeople in the industry here in Wales and I am confident that after a year off, this will be a keenly contested competition once again and one which NFU Mutual is pleased to support as the leading rural insurer in Wales.”

The closing date for entries is Friday, October 29 and the winner will be announced at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair, at Llanelwedd, Builth Wells on Monday 29th November 2021.

If you are interested in entering the award, please visit the NFU Cymru website to download an application form. Alternatively, you can email Clare Williams at clare.williams@nfu.org.uk or telephone the NFU Cymru office on 01982 554200.