UK's oldest Charollais flock disperses

The oldest flock of Charollais sheep, the Crogham flock of Jonathan and Carroll Barber, Wymondham, Norfolk, has been sold in a lock, stock and barrel sale

clock • 1 min read
UK's oldest Charollais flock disperses

 

 

Founded from the original importation by the Barber family in 1977, the Crogham flock has been sold in its entirety to young breeder Will Whiting and family, Cornwall.

Carroll Barber said the couple had made the difficult decision to sell the flock for a number of reasons. "Ultimately, it was the right time to give another generation the chance to progress with our genetics.

"There have been many highlights for the flock over the years, including top priced ram sales of Crogham Frankie, Crogham Hannibal and Crogham Cannon and winning all lamb classes at the Royal Show in one year. 
"Breeding top performance animals and seeing significant increases in muscle and growth while maintaining good looking stock has also been a satisfying achievement," she said.

"Both our children are pursuing successful careers away from farming, so it made sense to offer the opportunity to another youngster," said Mr Barber.

"Will is a passionate supporter of the Charollais breed and firmly believes in many of the same principles in breeding as we do, including the use of performance recording technologies to progress the flock forward."

Included in the sale were 30 flock ewes, 26 shearling ewes and the entire 2024 lamb crop of 50 lambs at foot, sired by Edstaston Bodhi.

Will Whiting said the opportunity to acquire such a unique and well-developed flock was too good to miss.
"The reputation of the Crogham flock needs no explanation to anyone within the Charollais breed. Being able to buy the flock as a going concern to add to our already established Fursdon flock will give us a headstart in terms of genetic progress," he said.

More on Livestock

Sheep industry shows resilience in challenging times

Sheep industry shows resilience in challenging times

Strive and thrive was the theme of the National Sheep Association Conference, held at the Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate

clock 27 November 2025 • 5 min read
Letters: "New QMS assurance standards are the most practical and farmer-focused in decades"

Letters: "New QMS assurance standards are the most practical and farmer-focused in decades"

This week from Farmers Guardian readers: Nial Jeffrey, chair of the Quality Meat Scotland Standards Setting Body and cattle and sheep farmer, discusses the latest updates to the QMS Cattle and Sheep Assurance Standards

clock 25 November 2025 • 2 min read
Farming dynasty carves out regen path for Brazilian beef

Farming dynasty carves out regen path for Brazilian beef

South America might not be known for its regenerative movement, but one farming dynasty is aiming to create a model for others to follow

clock 24 November 2025 • 6 min read