Swaledale breeders reflect on flock success and breed traditions

The Brogden family have had their fair share of success in the sale ring, and with breeding sales just a few months away, Katie Fallon learns what is involved in sale day preparations and why bloodlines are just as important as looks

clock • 8 min read
Left to right: Stanley, Pat, Lorna and Thomas Brogden.
Image:

Left to right: Stanley, Pat, Lorna and Thomas Brogden.

Looking over the Eden Valley, Helbeck Farm has been home to pedigree Swaledale sheep for more than 80 years and the breed lies at the heart of both the farm and the family who call it home. Together...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

 

More on Livestock

Spring calving herds to have genetic index update

Spring calving herds to have genetic index update

The Spring Calving Index (£SCI) is set to be refined by AHDB to create a more relevant breeding tool for grazing based, spring calving dairy herds

clock 14 March 2026 • 5 min read
Listening to the ground pays off on Northumberland farm

Listening to the ground pays off on Northumberland farm

At a farm walk hosted by Tom Fairfax at Mindrum Farm, Northumberland, held as part of the Agroecology at Scale Programme, he discussed his transition to regenerative farming

Lynsey Clark
clock 13 March 2026 • 7 min read
Behind the Thornbury Texel flock: "Get the females right and the tups will follow"

Behind the Thornbury Texel flock: "Get the females right and the tups will follow"

At Westwood Park Farm in Herefordshire, the Thornbury Texel flock combines pedigree breeding with commercial performance, focusing on strong female lines, embryo transfer and careful sire selection

clock 10 March 2026 • 7 min read